Discovering the Basque Country with My Kids

When I first heard about the 7-Day Bilbao and Basque Country tour, I was immediately intrigued. As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for experiences that are both educational and enjoyable for my children. The Basque Country, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, seemed like the perfect destination for our next adventure. So, with my three kids in tow, we set off to explore this unique region of Spain.

Our journey began in Bilbao, where we were warmly greeted by our tour guide, Estefan. His friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge set the tone for the rest of our trip. After a smooth transfer to our hotel, we had some free time to explore the city. Bilbao’s Old Town was a hit with the kids, who loved wandering through the narrow streets and discovering hidden gems around every corner. The vibrant atmosphere and delicious pintxos made for a perfect introduction to Basque culture.

Exploring the Basque Coast

The next day, we set out to explore the Basque Coast, a highlight of the tour. Our first stop was the Puente Colgante Vizcaya, a fascinating piece of engineering that captivated my little ones. They were amazed by the transporter bridge and its unique design. From there, we visited the Castillo de Butron, a medieval fortress that sparked their imaginations. The kids pretended to be knights defending the castle, and I couldn’t help but join in the fun.

One of the most memorable moments was our visit to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. The breathtaking views from the viewpoint were simply unforgettable. My children were thrilled to learn that this islet was featured as Dragonstone in Game of Thrones, adding an extra layer of excitement to our visit. We also enjoyed a leisurely walk through the colorful village of Bermeo, where the kids learned about the region’s fishing traditions.

A Taste of Basque Culture

Our adventure continued with a day trip to Biarritz, Saint Jean de Luz, and San Sebastian. Each city offered its own unique charm, and Estefan’s insights into the local culture and history made the experience even more enriching. In Biarritz, we strolled along the beautiful beaches and watched surfers ride the waves. The kids were fascinated by the vibrant surf scene and even tried their hand at building sandcastles.

In Saint Jean de Luz, we explored the old town, admiring the colorful Basque houses and learning about the area’s history. The highlight for my children was sampling the local pastries, which they declared to be the best they’d ever tasted. Our day ended in San Sebastian, where we indulged in a variety of pintxos and took in the stunning views of La Concha Bay from Igeldo.

Throughout the tour, Estefan’s passion for the Basque Country was evident. His ability to engage with my children and answer their endless questions made the experience truly special. From the historical sites to the delicious food, every aspect of the trip was thoughtfully planned and executed. This journey through the Basque Country was not only a wonderful family vacation but also an educational experience that my kids will cherish for years to come.