BASQUE COUNTRY

The Basque Country occupies the beautiful north-western corner of Spain, straddles the French-Spanish border and into France itself. It is an area quite unique in Europe: the Basque people are the oldest traceable ethnic group in Europe; and their language, Euskera, predates any of the commonly spoken Romance languages; its origins, like that of the Basque race itself, are lost in obscurity

This oft over-looked area of the Iberian peninsular has made ground, certainly amongst the more discerning travellers in recent years, with its spectacular gastronomy and wonderfully varied architecture. The Basque country has the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants in Spain and the tapas, some would say, are the best in the country! Whilst of course, the Guggenheim has become the region's most talked about building both here and abroad

Bilbao is Spain's 6th largest city and biggest port, and is located in the heart of the Basque Country.  While pre-Guggenheim Bilbao was never exactly a backwater, neither did it figure on any visitor’s agenda. It is now. Since Frank Gehry and his spectacular museum, the city has undergone an incredible urban renewal programme with projects including a swish new airport by Santiago Calatrava, the arching, skeletal Zubizuri bridge also by Calatrava and an award-winning metro system by Norman Foster

San Sebastian is a wonderfully elegant city which sits majestically along the shimmering waters of the La Concha beach, and surrounded by green mountains.  Often considered as one of the most beautiful city beach destinations in Europe it is also home to world-class jazz and film festivals..

It is considered to be one of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe. Ondarreta beach stands at the foot of Mount Igeldo and has a more aristocratic feel to it because of the villas and gardens that lead to the sand. La Zurriola is to be found on the right bank of the river and has undergone a massive project to increase its size by reclaiming land from the sea. It is now much bigger than La Concha beach. All three beaches offer tourist changing rooms, parasols and sun beds. Standing in the centre of La Concha Bay is the tiny Santa Clara Island with a lighthouse and a small wharf. This island turns into the city's fourth beach in the summer with a ferry service from the harbour.

There are many monuments to explore in the city, such as the CATHEDRAL, a neo-Gothic structure of the 19th century. Its spire at 75m high can be seen from most of the city. On Mount Urgull you will find the CASTILLO DE SANTA CRUZ DE LA MOTA which stands on the site of an earlier fort. All over the city you will find open-air sculptures by local artists. The city also offers several parks and gardens. Wide open spaces of green with manor houses and water features.

Wandering round the shops will probably prompt you to indulge in one of the local Basque products such as cotton shirts and berets. Paseo de Muelle is the best shopping area where you will be able to buy almost anything.

The sunsets in San Sebastian can be spectacular, as is the nightlife. Much of the nightlife is based in the old quarter, as are most of the best restaurants. They offer a wide selection of cuisine but seafood is the speciality.