"Euskadi" Top 5 Page for this destination Basque Country by timtregenza

The Basque Country is a loosely defined region at the north of the Iberian Peninsular.

It stretches from Bayonne in the north (in France), down through Biarritz, past San Sebastian (Donostia), and as far west as Bilbao, just outside of which it borders on Cantabria.

Going south, Euskadi encompasses Vittoria (Gastiez) and goes as far as the Ebro river.

Navarra, with its famous capital Pamplona (Iruna) is partly Basque. Indeed, depending upon who you talk to, it can be Castillian Spanish, Basque, or just Navarran.

The countryside in Alava

The Basque country encompasses a wide variety of terrain, but much of it is rugged. This in part accounts for the survival of the Basque language(s) and culture.

The Costa Vasca is beautiful and rugged, The mountains splendid, and the wine regions tasty!

Get a car and explore, following your tastebuds. The cuisine of Alava (more sheep?) contrasts nicely with that of Bilbao (more beef?) and San Sebastian (more fish?)

Flying the flag

It can be complicated in the Basque Country. Some people consider themselves Basque, others may see themselves as from Basque city, but not actually Basque. And the various political groupings leave the outsider puzzled.

In all events, the residents of the Basque Country are friendly to outsiders and there should be no fear of violence.

• Pros:Beautiful and varied
• Cons:Not as dry as parts of Spain
• In a nutshell:Just visit and explore. Don't be put off by the history of terrosism.