The Spanish Basque Country
The Spanish Basque Country, or “Euskadi” in Basque, is a territory located in Northern Spain with a powerful identity, a history dating back over 5,000 years, and a culture and language unique in the world. Its stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for those wishing to enjoy nature, whether by the sea or in the mountains, while discovering a captivating culture and savouring a gastronomy rich in flavour.
San Sebastián
Zarautz
Bilbao
Irrisariland
San Sebastián
San Sebastián (Donostia in Basque), located just 30 kilometres from the border, is a versatile, dynamic, and compact city that offers a full range of activities in an exceptional setting. Nature is at the very heart of the city with its three beaches and three hills. Its Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class bars, museums, and open-air art, combined with a festive atmosphere and the warm welcome of its inhabitants, the “Donostiarras“, make it an ideal destination where everything can be explored walking!
Examples of activities I offer in San Sebastián:
Surfing Lessons
Zurriola Beach, ideally located in the Gros district and within walking distance of the city centre, is perfect for a surfing session. Enjoy a lesson in small groups of six, supervised by certified instructors.
Yoga Classes
Use your stay in San Sebastián to enhance your well-being, improve flexibility, and strengthen key muscle groups. For more info on my Surf & Yoga breaks, click here.
Stand-up Paddleboard or Kayak Rental
If you prefer a more tranquil water activity, I suggest exploring Concha Bay by SUP or kayak to reach Santa Clara Island from Concha or Ondarreta beach.
City Cycling Tour
San Sebastián is the perfect city to explore by bike. Its network of cycle paths covers over 30km and is mostly flat, making it a practical way to see the sights. Guided tours for small groups (8 to 10 people) can be organised, including photo stops and local food tastings.
Relaxation at La Perla Spa
Unwind in one of the city’s most symbolic landmarks from its “Belle Époque” era: La Perla Thalassotherapy centre. Located right on Concha Beach, it features hydrotherapy pools, jacuzzis, water beds, saunas, and steam rooms. (2-hour circuit).
Pintxo & Basque Cookery Classes
A fun and interactive way to discover the variety of Basque cuisine. You will be welcomed by a local chef who will teach you how to prepare local specialities or pintxos, followed by a tasting of your creations accompanied by local wine!
iPad Rally – "Basque Cuadrilla
An adventure and discovery activity designed for corporate groups in an urban setting. The programme includes tests, challenges, riddles, and team building, all centred around Basque culture. Discover the city creatively with the help of an iPad.
The famous Concha Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, located right in the centre of San Sebastián. A stroll along the shoreline, from the Old Town to Mount Igueldo, allows you to admire the city’s beauty from several different perspectives. Sheltered by the bay, the Concha and Ondarreta beaches are calm and perfect for swimming, or for reaching Santa Clara Island by canoe or stand-up paddleboard.
Zurriola Beach, located in the Gros district, is the favourite destination for surfers and young people, buzzing with surf championships, lessons, and beach volleyball. Sport is an integral part of life here, and not just on the water: from trekking, cycling, and running to traditional Basque sports such as trainera (rowing boat) regattas and Pelota.
San Sebastián is also world-renowned as the capital of gastronomy and pintxos (Basque tapas). The Old Town is packed with pintxo bars, inviting visitors to sample these various delicacies while soaking up the region’s unique atmosphere
Mountain Orienteering on Mount Ulia
Mount Ulia is a natural heaven just a 15-minute walk from the city centre. Immerse yourself in a forest steeped in history and environmental richness. This team challenge requires you to use an orienteering map to find markers, take photos, and answer questions as quickly as possible.
Excursion to Mount Urgull
A short stroll to the summit of Mount Urgull (123 metres) with local guides to discover this historic hill in the middle of the city. You will enjoy panoramic views of the Concha Bay, the Kursaal, and Zurriola beach. The walk ends at a small terrace bar at the top with an included apéritif.
Where to stay in San Sebastián?
I work with 3 and 4-star hotels ideally located in the city centre and the Gros surfing district, ensuring clients can easily walk to the city’s main attractions and beaches.
Zarautz
Located on the coast just 20 kilometres from San Sebastián, Zarautz is a former whaling port that evolved into a prominent tourist destination in the 19th century. Its elegant beach—the longest in the province—is lined by an inviting promenade adorned with numerous avant-garde sculptures. The waves of the Cantabrian Sea make Zarautz a true paradise for surfing enthusiasts.
Examples of activities I offer in Zarautz:
Surfing Lessons
The 2.5-kilometre-long beach is perfect for learning surfing and trying the local sport by excellence. I work with the school founded by one of the best surfers on the pro circuit and Zarautz native, Aritz Aranburu. Lessons take place in small groups of six with certified instructors.
Yoga Classes
Yoga offers endless benefits for both body and mind. Use your stay to combine Surf & Yoga, improving flexibility and core strength. For more info, click here.
Zarautz to Getaria Excursion & Txakoli Tasting
A 45-minutes guided coastal walk to Getaria. Upon arrival, you will visit a vineyard to taste the local Txakoli wine. We can organise lunch at a local restaurant, followed by free time to explore Getaria’s narrow streets, enjoy the beach, or visit the Balenciaga Museum.
Often quieter than San Sebastián, Zarautz is a peaceful town that is more budget-friendly, particularly regarding accommodation, yet it has so much to offer. In addition to its beach, which is ideal for walking, swimming, and surfing, Zarautz boasts a rich architectural and cultural heritage. You will find numerous bars and restaurants where you can savour the famous pintxos, fresh fish stews, and other Basque specialities, all washed down with Txakoli (local wine). From Zarautz, it is an easy coastal walk to the charming fishing port of Getaria, the birthplace of the legendary designer Balenciaga, to whom an entire museum is dedicated.
Guided Tour of the Zumaia Flysch (UNESCO Geopark):
Just 20 minutes from Zarautz lies the Zumaia Flysch, a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, cliffs and tides create a magical landscape. The sedimentary rock layers contain data dating back over 50 million years—a geological phenomenon often compared to a book telling the Earth’s history. Includes return private shuttle and a guided tour with a geologist (on foot or by boat).
Guided Tour of the Zumaia Flysch (UNESCO Geopark):
Just 20 minutes from Zarautz lies the Zumaia Flysch, a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, cliffs and tides create a magical landscape. The sedimentary rock layers contain data dating back over 50 million years—a geological phenomenon often compared to a book telling the Earth’s history. Includes return private shuttle and a guided tour with a geologist (on foot or by boat).
Where to stay in Zarautz ?
I work with 3 and 4-star hotels ideally situated between the centre and the beach. Zarautz is very walkable; it only takes 15 to 20 minutes to cross from one side to the other.
Bilbao
Today, Bilbao is an internationally recognised urban benchmark, celebrated for its avant-garde style and the seamless integration of its industrial past. The city’s design and architecture make it a captivating destination, featuring landmarks such as the Guggenheim Museum—Frank Gehry’s breathtaking masterpiece—and the Biscay Bridge, a jewel of industrial architecture and a World Heritage site.
A stroll along the estuary and its bridges is a journey through history. The Zubizuri and Arrupe footbridges are icons of the “New Bilbao,” while others, like the San Antón Bridge, represent its storied past. The estuary leads you to the Old Town (Casco Viejo), a vibrant district. Wander through its lively “Seven Streets” (Siete Calles) to mingle with locals and enjoy excellent pintxos.
Examples of activities I offer in Bilbao:
Frank Gehry Guided Tour (Bilbao & La Rioja)
The Guggenheim has put Bilbao on the international map for over 20 years. After a guided tour of the museum, we head to the heart of the Rioja region to visit the famous Marqués de Riscal winery and hotel, also designed by Gehry. Includes a cellar tour and tasting. Optional vinotherapy treatments at the Caudalie Spa are available (subject to booking).
Gastronomic and Cultural Rally
Divided into teams, your colleagues will tackle culinary, artistic, and cultural challenges while discovering local history and anecdotes. Local tastings included.
Gastronomic Experience at Mercado de la Ribera
Visit the market with a chef to select local products for a cookery class. Guests will learn new recipes in workshops taught by instructors from the Bilbao Hotel Management School.
Guided Photography Tour
A unique way to see the city. This urban photography workshop is taught by a professional photographer and a guide, perfect for groups interested in urban or architectural photography.
Bilbao City Tour & Artxanda Funicular
A guided tour of the city’s iconic landmarks followed by a funicular ride up Mount Artxanda for a superb panoramic view of Bilbao.
Surfing Lessons in Sopelana
Just a 20-minutes private shuttle from the city, Sopelana beach allows you to disconnect from the urban bustle and recharge in nature with a surfing session.
Excursion to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
This magical islet is a “must-see” on the Basque Coast, famous as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Connected to the mainland by a stone bridge and 241 steps, the summit features a small chapel and stunning views of the wild Cantabrian Sea. (Half-day excursion, 40-minute private shuttle from Bilbao).
Where to stay in Bilbao ?
I work with 3- and 4-star hotels as well as next-generation hostels ideally located in the center of Bilbao, so guests can easily walk around and explore the various attractions the city has to offer.
Irrisarriland
Located in Igantzi, in the north of Navarre and just 30 minutes from the Basque coast, IrriSarriland is a 75-hectare estate nestled in the heart of nature. This high-end mountain resort features various types of eco-integrated accommodation and an adventure park offering a wide range of sporting activities, all within a privileged natural environment maintained to the highest quality standards. Its location, unique features, and services make IrriSarriland the perfect place to disconnect, recharge in the wild, and revitalise.
Examples of activities I offer at IrriSarriland:
Zip Wire Circuit
Looking for adrenaline and extreme thrills? IrriSarriland features one of the longest zip wire circuits in Europe, spanning over 2.5 km with eight individual wires. Participants can choose their route, combining wires ranging from 200 to 900 metres long and reaching heights of up to 90 metres. Soar over the valley in complete safety with high-quality equipment and professional instructors.
Tree climbing
Fancy climbing through the canopy? The high ropes course invites participants to enjoy nature from a different perspective while having fun. This playful activity is suitable for everyone, with guaranteed safety provided by dedicated staff and equipment.
Tibetan Bridge and Forest Walk
Inspired by the bridges found in the world’s great mountain ranges like the Himalayas or the Andes, this 140-metre bridge crosses the IrriSarriland woods at a height of 50 metres. A forest stroll followed by the bridge crossing is a wonderful way to feel close to nature. Below, you can enjoy a stunning view of one of the region’s largest and oldest chestnut groves.
Via Ferrata
If your clients are adventure seekers who don’t mind heights, the two Via Ferrata routes at IrriSarriland are made for them. They offer the chance to practice this adventure sport while admiring breathtaking natural scenery.
Downhill Mountain Biking (MTB):
IrriSarriland is renowned in the region for its downhill MTB circuit. Within a 3,000 m² area, three dirt tracks have been designed for maximum fun, catering to all levels—from green runs to blue and red jump lines. It is a dream destination for fans of downhill, enduro, XC, e-bike, or dirt jumping.
The activities at IrriSarriland cater to all tastes: tree climbing, zip wires (eight in total, including one stretching 900 metres), a Tibetan bridge, forest hiking, via ferrata, laser tag, a pump track and dirt park (mountain biking), horse riding, and disc golf. Two on-site restaurants serve the finest local cuisine.
The resort boasts a premium palace-hotel, formerly a 17th-century noble manor house, as well as Deluxe stone and wood chalets. Each chalet has its own private terrace and large floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the valley. Several types of chalets are available (1 or 2 bedrooms) with a lounge and fully equipped kitchen; some even feature an indoor or outdoor jacuzzi on the terrace (subject to availability and price on request).
Disc golf
Very similar to traditional golf, disc golf replaces clubs and balls with frisbees, and holes with baskets. IrriSarriland is home to the first professional disc golf course in Navarre. It features 18 baskets spread across various slopes and plots, with the final hole requiring a throw of up to 140 metres. A fantastic team-building game!
Disc golf
Very similar to traditional golf, disc golf replaces clubs and balls with frisbees, and holes with baskets. IrriSarriland is home to the first professional disc golf course in Navarre. It features 18 baskets spread across various slopes and plots, with the final hole requiring a throw of up to 140 metres. A fantastic team-building game!
Horse Riding
A hack on horseback is the most authentic way to discover the IrriSarriland estate. Guided by certified instructors, these rides allow you to explore the park and experience nature in its purest form, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Where to stay at Irrisariland ?
At Irrisarriland, you can choose between the upscale palace hotel (a renovated 17th-century manor house bearing a family crest) and the Deluxe stone-and-wood chalets, featuring private terraces, large bay windows, and panoramic views over the valley, subject to availability.
