Reasons to visit the Basque Country

The Basque Country is always an interesting area for a visit, not just for its natural beauty but also for its fascinating history and culture. The Basque region comprises of the provinces of Vizcaya, Guipuzcoa and Alava. Its people are well-known for their independent spirit and have a unique culture and language (Euskera) which is now spoken by a third of the population and growing in popularity. The language bears no similarity to any other language, and written euskera was described by one commentator as looking like a bad hand at Scrabble. The Basques love to celebrate on a large scale (any excuse for a party, then!). Music and dance are important in their culture and traditions, as is storytelling. And as if you need another incentive to go to this area, the Basque cuisine is considered to be the best in Spain.

Bilbao>, capital of Vizcaya, is the front door for many, arriving by air or by ferry. Its origins are 14th century and the old town still exists, including its gothic cathedral and attractive town hall. But Bilbao is probably better known today for its masterpiece of late 20th century architecture, the Guggenheim Museum, which houses exhibitions of modern art. Whilst in the area we suggest you visit Guernica, especially if you are interested in history. Guernica is an important city to the Basques and home to the Casa de Juntas (Assembly House). Originally meetings of the General Assemblers took place around The Tree of Gernika (which is carefully preserved outside the Assembly house) and which has become the universal symbol of all Basque people. The Basque Country Museum was set up to offer a permanent exhibition to help visitors understand the political and cultural importance of the Basque Country while in another museum there are displays and old photographs of the bombing of Guernica during the Spanish civil war, and the original sketches and studies for the famous painting by Picasso 'Guernica' which immortalizes the event can be seen here. (The original painting is on display in Madrid).

Situated on the coast, surrounded by a stunning beach called La Concha, is the lovely resort town of San Sebastian, capital of Guipuzcoa. It's very popular with Spanish holidaymakers who flock to the town in the summer months and enjoys international fame with its Film Festival which takes place each year in September. A few miles west of the town superb views can be enjoyed at Monte Ulia across the surrounding countryside and the Bay of Biscay.

The third province of the Basque Country is inland Alava. Its capital Vitoria is famous as being the site of a British victory during the Peninsular War. Close to the border of La Rioja lies the charming walled medieval town of Laguardia, an important wine-producing area.

Close to and closely associated with the Basque Country, Navarra is an old medieval kingdom which lie south-west of the Pyrenees. Navarra's capital is Pamplona which is well-known for its fiesta of San Fermines and the famous 'running of the bulls' which takes place 6 - 14 July. Apart from non-stop partying, the highlight is when the bulls are left to charge through the old town while crowds of young men run in front. The city is also worth visiting outside of this time. Apart from being easier and cheaper to get accommodation, there is much to see: the main attractions being its Renaissance Cathedral, old walled quarter and imposing citadel.