Spain is a land of vast geographic diversity, yet it has a temperate climate with dry summers and moderate temperatures in the winter. There are more than 3,000 hours of Mediterranean sunshine each year but the temperatures remain pleasant.
A unique way to discover the natural beauty and history of Spain is to set out on route tours. By participating in a route tour, you will journey through historic towns and cities that exemplify the rich cultural heritage of Spain. The Basque Country has some of the mot delicious cuisine and beautiful countryside in the world.
There are two popular routes to travel to the Basque Country. The Basque Country is located in the north and is bounded by the Catabrian Sea on the north, La Rioja to the south, Castile, Leon, and Cantabria on the west, and Navarre on the east.
The most popular route is called the French Route that starts in the Pyrenees Mountains, through Roncesvallesby way of Navarre. An alternative route is to travel to Somport through Aragon and Puente la Riena to the final destination of La Rioja and
Castile- León.
The second route is called the Northern Route that takes the traveler through unique landscapes along the coast on one side along the Cantabrian Sea and mountains on the other side. The final destination along this route is Oviedo. Along the way you will see the ancient town of Zarautz.
Beautiful beaches along the Cantabrian Sea dotted with sculptures are sights you will not want to miss. The center of the city offers the Gothic tower of Luzea, the Renaissance palace of Narros, and the Medieval church of Santa Maria la Real. The Basque Museum of Photography and the Zarautz Museum of Art and History should be included in your itinerary.
The Basque Mountains, also called Montes Vascos, to the south and connect with the Pyrenees Mountains and the beginning of the Cantabrian Mountains to the west. Aitzkorri Peak is the highest in the Basque Country reaching 5,066 feet (1,544 meters) into the warm sky of Spain.
Glimpses of the Basque Country
The most famous gourmet centers in the Basque Country are Hondarribia, Bilbao and San Sebastian. Travelers will experience some of the finest cuisine in the world in these Basque Country towns. While in Bilbao visit the world renowned Gugenheim Museum to experience the marvelous architecture and coveted modern art.
Travel through the Basque Country along the routes is by car, bus and by train. The hotels throughout the Basque Country are small but well appointed and reasonably priced. The Hôtel La Marisa in Saint Jean de Luz is less than 100 feet (30 meters) from the beach. Rooms start at a very reasonable $135 (€100) per night. The hotel provides all modern conveniences and free Internet access for guests. Guests of the Hôtel La Marisa may also enjoy the sauna, fitness center, and casino. A golf course is located nearby as well as opportunities for windsurfing and snorkeling.