Nestled in the shadow of the Pyrenees is the Basque Region of France. Originally its own kingdom (Navarre), the modern Basque Region is divided between Spain and France. While most of the Basque Region lies in Spain, there is a small pocket in southwest France. The main areas of the Basque Region in France are Bayonne, Biarritz, Hendaye and St. Jean de Luz.
Stay at the Hotel du Palais, in the beach resort town of Biarritz. Originally the hotel was a palace (hence the name) built by Empress Eugenie in the 19th century.
Celebrate the birthplace of surfing in France by attending the annual Biarritz Surf Festival, held each July. Or, enjoy the Bayonne Festival, held at the beginning of August. The festival features a bull fight, a children's day and celebrants dressed in red and white.
Drive east to the capital of the Basque Region in France, Bayonne. Here you can tour Le Musee Basque and the Musee Bonnart.
Travel south along A63 to the charming seaside town of St. Jean de Luz. Visitors can immerse themselves in the authentic Basque architecture, with touches of Spanish and Moorish influences.
Learn about the history of traditional Basque linen weaving, at the Eco-Musee Jean Vier. Visitors can watch the making of modern Basque cloth and articles in the Jean Vier factory.
Continue along A63 to your final stop in the Basque Region of France, Hendaye. Situated on the French-Spanish border, a few miles from San Sebastian, Hendaye offers numerous water sports, a casino and cheap shopping just across the border in Spain.
Take a hike in the Pyrenees, which surround the town, and follow it by a visit to the Musee & Atelier du Chocolat, which is a museum dedicated to chocolate.
