Pais Vasco guide

About Pais Vasco

Pais Vasco, or the Basque Country, has a unique identity thanks to the strong Basque culture, often seen in its passion for food, especially tapas, and wine; and amongst its rural and coastal beauty are cities such as the vibrant and energetic Bilbao and cultured San Sebastian with its Michelin star chefs.

Pais Vasco (the Basque Country) is one of the most industrialized regions of Spain but it is still a land of lush green countryside, magnificent mountains and brilliant blue seas -  there are many areas of nature that are almost untouched, especially the natural parks of Valderejo, Urkiola, Urdaibai and the magical landscapes along the Guernica river. This region is perfect for hiking, riding, golf and mountain sports and towns of note are San Sebastian, the famous aristocratic beach resort; and Bilbao, the region's largest city which has a beautiful historic quarter.

Discover the rich culture and deeply rooted customs of the Basque people who have forged strong bonds with the environment around them. Pais Vasco is a region where diverse and enterprising communities are based around fishing, industry and agriculture making it a land of good food and excellent wine, where local and seasonal products such as pintxos, the local tapas, and fine wines from the Rioja Alavesa or a txakoli, a sparkling wine, are a luxury everyone can afford.

Take the time to understand the personality of this unique region and experiment with the passionate flavours of Pais Vasco.

Cuisine of Pais Vasco

Local specialities

Red peppers and white asparagus. Famous potatoes of Aézcoa. Chestnuts and hazelnuts.

What's on the menu?

Basque fish stew called ttoro (pronounced tioro) is claimed to be better than a French bouillabaisse! Cordero al chilindrón, a delicious lamb stew.

What to drink

Pacharán, which is made by mixing sloe berries with aniseed or plain liqueur. Excellent Rioja and full bodied red wines from La Ribera and Alavesa areas of Navarra and Pais Vasco.