Basque Country and Navarre

Award-winning guidebook from Bradt

This thoroughly updated third edition remains the most in-depth guide to a multi-lingual, multi-cultural borderland that straddles the Pyrenees between Spain and France. Discover a region with a profound and distinctive identity—one that reveals itself through deep-seated traditions, singular cuisine, world-class wine, unique language, bold art and architecture, and even strange sports. Beyond the well-known cities lies beautiful Basque countryside: secluded valleys and rugged mountains, wild coastlines, and the vestiges of industry long gone that tell the story of a troubled past, lively present, and constant reinvention.

Neighbouring Navarre offers its own appeal, from high Pyrenees to arid semi-desert landscapes. This former kingdom's history is marked by lonely hilltop castles, though it's best known for the frenetic bull-running days of Pamplona's San Fermín festival—Ernest Hemingway's favourite party town. Find the best pintxos and txakoli wine, explore elegant Biarritz and the French Basque Pyrénées, or venture into the Navarran 'badlands' of Bardenas Reales and lesser-visited places hosting thrilling local festivals.

With practical advice on walking, cycling, horse riding, surfing and birdwatching alongside traditional accommodation and dining recommendations, author Murray Stewart guides you through this increasingly popular area. This new edition includes elegant San Sebastián hotels, transport improvements, new restaurants serving culinary specialities, Bilbao's reconfigured Bellas Artes museum, and evolving wine tourism opportunities. Whether you're a hiker, surfer, foodie, cyclist, spiritualist or golfer, discover a fascinating and rewarding holiday destination.