Basque Country, a high-end destination between sea, mountains, and culture
Among vineyards, avant-garde art, and Michelin stars, the region unveils its authentic luxury
The Basque Country has established itself as a privileged destination for discerning travelers seeking memorable experiences. With a carefully curated selection of stays in high-end accommodations, internationally recognized gastronomy, and a diverse range of cultural and artistic activities, the region reveals a luxury tourism offering in which every detail has been designed to guarantee pleasure, excellence, and exclusivity in a setting of great scenic and heritage wealth. Luxury tourism in the Basque Country is structured around a formula that fuses tradition and modernity with personalized attention. In its cities and stunning natural settings stand boutique hotels, converted palaces, and panoramic suites inviting guests to enjoy an intimate and unforgettable stay. From the iconic 5-star Hotel Carlton in Bilbao to innovative landmarks like the Hotel Marqués de Riscal in Rioja Alavesa, travelers will discover a diverse range of accommodation in which luxury is expressed through architecture, service, and authenticity. Gourmet cuisine forms another cornerstone of this exceptional offering. Within a radius of around 60 miles, the Basque Country boasts one of the world’s highest concentrations of Michelin stars, with culinary temples such as Arzak, Akelarre, Martín Berasategui, and Azurmendi, all reinterpreting Basque tradition with creativity and cutting-edge innovation. This excellence is complemented by distinctive wineries such as Ysios and Crusoe Treasure, located under the sea in the bay of Plentzia, alongside steakhouses and cider houses offering immersive culinary experiences.
Art and culture come together to enrich this luxury ecosystem. The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, a symbol of urban renewal, is complemented by unique sites like Chillida Leku in Hernani, where monumental sculptures blend seamlessly with an ancient forest, and the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum in Getaria, paying tribute to haute couture from the designer’s hometown. Meanwhile, a series of international film, opera, and jazz festivals round out a vibrant cultural calendar. The offering is further enhanced by experiences crafted to engage all five senses: cruising on a private yacht along the Cantabrian coast, flying over the vineyards by helicopter, or indulging in thalassotherapy spa treatments by the sea. All with one clear mission: to provide travelers with a unique environment, personalized services, and the promise of unforgettable memories. Location The Basque Country is situated in northern Spain, bordering the Cantabrian Sea and France. It is accessible via the AP-8 and AP-1 motorways, with airports in Bilbao, San Sebastián, and Vitoria-Gasteiz. The region is also served by ports in Bilbao and Pasaia, along with rail connections to Madrid and France.