Begin with a guided walk through the old town, the true heart of Pamplona. Among medieval streets, lively squares and ancient fortifications, the city reveals the iconic locations that have shaped its history.

The visit continues at the Cathedral of Santa María, a remarkable Gothic building whose cloister is considered one of the most beautiful in Spain. Its museum explores several centuries of Navarrese history and recalls Pamplona’s role along the routes to Santiago de Compostela.

At aperitif time, make your way from bar to bar to sample the famous pintxos, a true Navarrese ritual. Surprising flavours, high-quality local ingredients and culinary innovation concentrated into a single bite have shaped the city’s gastronomic reputation, because a Navarrese pintxo is much more than a tapa: it is the perfect combination of deep-rooted tradition and culinary creativity. Traditional establishments now stand alongside original restaurants, offering a magnificent showcase of Navarrese cuisine. If you would prefer to continue the evening in a more formal setting, you will find numerous renowned establishments in the heart of the historic centre.

Make your first stop in Zubiri, a charming village crossed by the Way of St James. Its iconic Puente de la Rabia, a medieval bridge steeped in legend, invites you to take a gastronomic break and sample Navarrese pâtés. A few kilometres further on, Eugi reveals a spectacular landscape of forests and mountains. In autumn, the woodland attracts mushroom enthusiasts, while the lake provides an ideal setting for a walk.

After crossing the Pyrenees, head to the Aldudes Valley, renowned for its livestock farms and mountain cuisine. It is the perfect opportunity to sample iconic specialities such as veal axoa, duck confit and Ossau-Iraty cheese, made from the milk of sheep that graze in the surrounding countryside during the summer.

The afternoon continues in Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, an elegant village nestled at the foot of the mountains. Its Château d’Etchaux, built in the 13th century, overlooks the red-and-white façades of the village houses, while the Roman bridge crossing the River Nive recalls the strategic importance of this valley between France and Navarre.

Before the end of the day, visit the Cave d’Irouléguy to meet the winegrowers who cultivate their vines on spectacular terraced hillsides. A tasting will allow you to appreciate the distinctive character of these mountain wines. Gastronomy enthusiasts can also stop in Banka to visit the renowned Truite de Banka, a celebrated fish farm whose trout feature on the menus of numerous Michelin-starred restaurants.

Begin your journey in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, one of the historic gateways to the routes to Santiago. Behind its city walls, cobbled streets invite you to wander among historic houses, delicatessens and artisan workshops. Stop at Pierre Oteiza’s charcuterie to discover the famous Kintoa pig, an iconic breed of the Basque Country, before giving in to the temptation of the artisan macarons for which the town is also renowned.

The route then continues towards Sauveterre-de-Béarn, a magnificent medieval town overlooking the Gave d’Oloron. From its city walls and Pont de la Légende, the views over the valley are among the most spectacular in Béarn. Take the opportunity to enjoy a lunch centred around foie gras, accompanied by a glass of Jurançon wine.

Continue to Salies-de-Béarn, the famous “Town of Salt”, whose historic houses cluster around the saltwater spring that brought it prosperity. Take your time to relax in the thermal baths, renowned for the benefits of their naturally salty waters, before exploring the elegant streets lined with Belle Époque buildings.

The day ends in Oloron-Sainte-Marie, at the foot of the Pyrenees. Dominated by its Sainte-Marie Cathedral, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela, the city reveals a rich religious and architectural heritage. In the cathedral square, a tasting of Ossau-Iraty cheese and Béarnais macarons provides the perfect finishing touch to this day dedicated to gastronomic traditions.

Your first stop is Espelette, whose whitewashed houses are decorated with long strings of red peppers that have made the village famous. If you visit on a Wednesday, take your time to explore the traditional market, where producers place local flavours centre stage. A visit to the Ateliers du Piment will then provide a better understanding of the history of this iconic spice, which holds Protected Designation of Origin status, from its cultivation to its preparation.

Continue towards Ainhoa, recognised as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”. Its main street, lined with magnificent Labourd-style houses with red shutters, is a remarkable example of Basque architecture. The Maison du Patrimoine offers an immersive experience through a panoramic projection exploring the history of the region and the villages of Xareta.

Just a few minutes away, in Sare, Ortillopitz opens the doors of an authentic 16th-century Basque house. This visit provides a better understanding of how traditional farms were organised, the role of the house in Basque society and the traditions that continue to be passed down today.

The day ends in Biarritz, a former fishing town that became a popular seaside resort during the Second French Empire. Stroll through Port-Vieux, the narrow streets of the former fishermen’s quarter and Les Halles, where seafood stands alongside Basque specialities. Depending on your preferences, enjoy a moment of relaxation by the coast, a surfing session on the Atlantic waves or a walk through the elegant shopping streets for which the city is renowned.