Discover the Luxury of Basque Country, with Avelia Travel
The Ultimate Basque Country Getaway: Tailored to Your Tastes
Discover the Basque Country: A Luxury Travel Experience
Located in the stunning northern region of Spain, the Basque Country is a destination like no other. Known for its dramatic landscapes, cultural heritage, and exceptional cuisine, this unique region offers travelers a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're lounging on the golden beaches of San Sebastián, exploring the architectural marvels of Bilbao, or savoring exquisite meals at Michelin-starred restaurants, the Basque Country is a haven for those seeking luxury.
At Avelia Travel, we specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries that provide an immersive journey through the Basque Country’s most captivating destinations. From the stunning cliffs and mystical beauty of Gaztelugatxe to the charming medieval villages hidden in the Basque countryside, we take you to places that are both exclusive and unforgettable. Whether you're exploring the renowned Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao with a private guide or savoring world-class cuisine in San Sebastián, we ensure every moment of your experience is exceptional. Let us create the perfect luxury getaway in one of Spain’s most enchanting and unspoiled regions.
Top Destinations in and Around Basque Country
The Basque Country is renowned for its captivating cities, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. While the region itself offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences, neighboring areas like La Rioja also contribute to making this part of Spain an exceptional destination. Below are some of the must-visit destinations in and near the Basque Country, each offering its own unique charm.
San Sebastián (Donostia)
San Sebastián, or Donostia in Basque, is one of Spain’s most luxurious and picturesque seaside cities. Known for its stunning beaches, like Playa de la Concha, and its world-renowned gastronomy, San Sebastián attracts visitors seeking an exclusive coastal experience. The city is home to an impressive selection of Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a culinary paradise for food lovers. In addition to its food scene, San Sebastián boasts beautiful Old Town streets, the iconic Monte Urgull hill offering panoramic views, and vibrant cultural festivals like the San Sebastián International Film Festival.
Bilbao
Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, is a dynamic blend of traditional Basque culture and modern architecture. A key highlight of the city is the Guggenheim Museum, a striking work of contemporary architecture designed by Frank Gehry. Bilbao is also home to a thriving food scene, particularly its renowned pintxos bars where you can sample the best Basque tapas. The city’s rich cultural offerings extend to charming old neighborhoods, lively markets, and the beautiful riverside parks. Whether you’re exploring the Casco Viejo (Old Town) or enjoying a private tour through the city’s art galleries, Bilbao provides a truly immersive Basque experience.
La Rioja
While La Rioja is technically outside the Basque Country, its close proximity makes it an ideal addition to your itinerary when visiting the Basque region. Famous for its exceptional wine production, La Rioja is home to some of Spain’s most prestigious vineyards and wineries. A visit to La Rioja offers the opportunity to enjoy private wine-tasting experiences, learn about traditional wine-making methods, and explore charming villages nestled in the picturesque Rioja Alavesa wine region. La Rioja’s stunning landscapes, dotted with vineyards, make it a perfect place to indulge in wine tourism while enjoying the region’s natural beauty.
Tailored Luxury Experiences in Basque Country
At Avelia Travel, we specialize in curating luxury, tailor-made trips to the Basque Country, ensuring that each journey is as unique as our clients. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, we design exclusive, high-end experiences that cater to your specific interests. Our itineraries combine the best of Basque culture, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine, all while offering exceptional comfort and style.
Explore the artistic side of Bilbao with a private tour of the Guggenheim Museum, experience the culinary delights of San Sebastián’s Michelin-starred restaurants, or take a private wine-tasting tour through the rolling vineyards of La Rioja. Whether you want to enjoy the region’s natural beauty with a luxurious hiking experience or unwind at exclusive beach resorts along the Basque coast, Avelia Travel is dedicated to turning your vision of the perfect Basque getaway into reality.
For a glimpse of the type of tailor-made experiences we offer, check out the following sample itineraries that feature the Basque Country:
Start planning your tailored Basque adventure today!
Let us take care of every detail — from private transfers to exclusive reservations — so you can simply enjoy the journey. Get in touch with us to begin your luxury Basque Country trip
Best Time to Visit Basque Country
The best time to visit Basque Country depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for—whether it’s relaxing on the coast, exploring picturesque villages, or attending world-class cultural events. Thanks to its mild, oceanic climate, the Basque Country is a fantastic destination all year round, with each season offering something unique.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most pleasant times to explore the Basque Country. The weather begins to warm up, flowers bloom across the countryside, and the region’s natural beauty is in full display. It’s a great season for hiking in the hills, wine tasting in La Rioja Alavesa, or exploring cities like Bilbao and San Sebastián without the summer crowds.
Summer (June to September)
If you’re looking to enjoy the beaches of San Sebastián, surf the Atlantic waves, or soak in the lively summer atmosphere, summer is the ideal season. Expect long days, warm temperatures, and a vibrant cultural calendar. Notable events include:
Bilbao BBK Live (July): A major international music festival set against the scenic backdrop of Mount Cobetas.
San Sebastián Jazz Festival (July): One of Europe’s most prestigious jazz events, attracting artists from around the world.
Semana Grande (August): A week-long celebration in both San Sebastián and Bilbao with fireworks, concerts, and traditional Basque sports.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn offers a quieter, more intimate way to experience the Basque Country. The harvest season is in full swing, making it a fantastic time for culinary travel, vineyard visits, and sampling seasonal Basque cuisine. September also marks the prestigious:
San Sebastián International Film Festival: An iconic event that draws global celebrities and cinephiles alike.
The fall foliage in the mountains adds an extra layer of charm for nature lovers and photographers.
Winter (December to February)
Though cooler and rainier, winter in the Basque Country has its own appeal—especially for travelers interested in gastronomy, museums, and cultural exploration. Cities remain lively with cozy pintxo bars, Christmas markets, and fewer tourists. This is a great time to enjoy indoor experiences, like visiting the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao or dining at Michelin-starred restaurants without needing a reservation months in advance.
Why Choose Avelia Travel for Your Basque Country Experience?
Planning a trip to the Basque Country is one thing. Experiencing it with insider access, personalized service, and refined detail is something entirely different. At Avelia Travel, we specialize in tailor-made luxury travel in Spain, with a deep understanding of what makes the Basque Country truly exceptional.
Local Expertise, Global Standards
We know the Basque Country inside and out—from the hidden coastal retreats near Getaria to intimate winery tours in La Rioja Alavesa. Our on-the-ground knowledge allows us to design itineraries that go beyond the typical tourist path. Whether it’s a private visit to a local txakoli producer or a guided art tour through the Guggenheim in Bilbao, we handpick every element to match your interests.
Bespoke Itineraries, Crafted for You
Your journey is never off-the-shelf. With Avelia, each trip is fully customized to your travel style, pace, and preferences. Whether you're after a culinary deep dive, a coastal escape, or a culture-filled adventure, we handle every detail—from exclusive accommodations to seamless logistics.
Exclusive Access & Premium Partnerships
We partner with a curated network of boutique hotels, local artisans, Michelin-starred chefs, and expert guides who bring the region to life. These relationships allow us to unlock experiences that most travelers simply don’t have access to—like after-hours museum visits, chef-led market tours, or private Basque cooking classes.
Effortless Travel, Every Step of the Way
Luxury is not only about where you stay—it’s about how you feel. From the moment you reach out to us, we handle every aspect of your trip with discretion, efficiency, and care. You can relax knowing that your journey through the Basque Country will be as smooth and enriching as it is unforgettable.
Book a consultation now and let’s get started.
You’ve read about the destinations. Now let’s turn ideas into action. Our team at Avelia Travel is ready to design a luxury Basque Country itinerary that matches your vision—seamless, tailored, unforgettable.
Fill in the form below with as many of your travel wishes and preferences as possible, this will help us begin crafting your perfect journey.