FAQ – The Basque Way
Your Questions Answered – Private Tours, Authentic Experiences & Premium Travel Across the French & Spanish Basque Country
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to The Basque Way’s FAQ.
As a boutique travel company based in Biarritz, we specialize in private tours, premium transportation, and tailor-made itineraries across both the French and Spanish Basque Country.
Our goal is to offer travelers - especially those visiting from abroad - a seamless, authentic, and high-end experience, guided by a local expert who knows the region intimately.
Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions our guests ask when planning a trip, covering everything from itineraries and logistics to pricing, culture, and insider tips.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us — we’re always happy to help craft the perfect Basque experience.
About The Basque Way
1. What is The Basque Way and what type of services do you offer?
The Basque Way is a boutique travel company offering luxury private tours, premium transportation, and personalized itineraries. We focus on authentic cultural experiences across the French and Spanish Basque Country.
2. Where are you based and which areas do you cover?
We are based in Biarritz, France, and operate throughout the region: Biarritz, Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Espelette, Ainhoa, Sare, San Sebastián, Hondarribia, Bilbao, Getaria, and the Rioja wine region.
3. What makes The Basque Way different from other tour companies?
We offer local expertise, exclusive access, flexible itineraries, cultural storytelling, and a premium level of service tailored to each traveler.
4. Do you offer private tours only, or group experiences as well?
Yes - we specialize in private tours, but we also work with corporate groups, seminars, incentive travel and events.
5. What languages do your guides speak?
English, French, and Spanish.
6. Can you customize a tour based on our interests?
Absolutely - each tour is 100% tailor-made.
7. Do you operate on both the French and Spanish sides of the Basque Country?
Yes - we cross the border daily and cover both territories seamlessly.
Private Tours & Experiences
8. What are your most popular private tours?
Biarritz & the French Basque Coast, San Sebastián to France, inland Basque villages, Rioja wineries, food tours, artisans, and mountain experiences.
9. Do you offer half-day and full-day tours?
Yes — all tours include premium transportation and a private guide.
10. Can you arrange exclusive or behind-the-scenes experiences?
Yes — private tastings, meetings with producers, farm visits, boat tours, artisans, chefs, and more.
11. Do your tours include skip-the-line or private access?
Whenever possible, yes — especially at wineries and cultural sites.
12. Can you organize multi-day itineraries?
Yes — from 2 to 15 days, including Bordeaux to Bilbao routes.
13. Do you offer tours from San Sebastián into the French Basque Country?
Yes - this is one of our specialties.
14. Are your tours suitable for seniors or travelers with reduced mobility?
Yes - our itineraries can be fully adapted.
Princing & Bookings
15. How much do your private tours cost?
Most full-day private tours range from €650 to €850 per group; half-days from €350 to €550.
16. Is pricing per person or per group?
Per group, up to 8 passengers.
17. What payment methods do you accept?
Online credit card, bank transfers, or invoice for corporate groups.
18. How far in advance should we book?
We recommend 2–6 weeks in advance.
19. What is your cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 7 days before the tour; then partial fees.
20. Do you require a deposit?
Yes for corporate or multi-day itineraries.
For private day tours, full payment confirms the booking.
Transportation & Logistics
21. What type of vehicles do you use?
Premium vans and hybrid executive vehicles (Mercedes or equivalent).
22. Do you provide airport or hotel transfers?
Yes - BIQ, EAS, BIO, Bordeaux, train stations, hotels, and villas.
23. Can you pick us up anywhere in France or Spain?
Yes - including San Sebastián, Hondarribia, Biarritz, Bayonne.
24. Do you provide child seats?
Yes - available upon request.
25. Is transportation included in all tours?
Yes - door-to-door service in a licensed, insured private vehicle.
Itineraries & Destinations
26. What are the must-see villages in the French Basque Country?
Sare, Ainhoa, Espelette, Bayonne, La Bastide-Clairence, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Guéthary, Bidart, Guéthary, Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz
27. Can we combine coastal towns and inland villages in the same day?
Yes - it’s one of the best ways to understand the diversity of the region.
28. Do you offer winery tours in Rioja or txakoli regions?
Yes - including Marqués de Riscal, boutique wineries, and coastal txakoli estates.
29. Do you organize food tours?
Yes - pintxos, markets, cider houses, chocolate, charcuterie, seafood, and more.
30. What happens in case of bad weather?
We adapt with indoor visits, tastings, cultural activities, or alternative stops.
Practical Information & Insider Travel Tips
31. Is the Basque Country a safe destination?
Yes - it is one of the safest regions in both France and Spain.
32. What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring and fall for mild weather; summer for coastline; winter for food culture.
33. Do you offer family-friendly tours?
Yes - we adapt the pace, activities, and stops for children.
34. Can you help with restaurant reservations?
Yes - from traditional bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants.
35. Do you offer tours for cruise passengers?
Yes - with port pick-up and custom timings.
36. How far is the Basque Country from major cities?
San Sebastián → Biarritz: 45 min
Bilbao → Biarritz: 1h30–2h
Bordeaux → Biarritz: 2h
37. Do you offer photography or scenic tours?
Yes - we know the best coastal viewpoints and mountain landscapes.
38. Can you design a luxury itinerary with hotels and special experiences?
Yes - we specialize in tailor-made premium trips.
39. Do you offer transfers combined with a tour?
Yes - transfer + sightseeing is a popular option.
40. Are your tours suitable for travelers who want to avoid tourist crowds?
Absolutely - authenticity and hidden gems are at the heart of The Basque Way.
