Eight original and meditative activities to enjoy as a family in the Basque country

To make some unforgettable memories as a family, come and try out this adventure trail up over the Gave d’Ossau! The trail includes 11 zip lines and a Nepalese bridge, and is suitable for children aged between 10 and 12, as long as they are at least 1m40 tall. Please note: you do not need to be particularly sporty to take part in this activity, you just need to be comfortable in a mountainous environment and not afraid of heights. 

In 1906, the writer Edmond Rostand’s dream came true when he came to live in his elegant Neo-Basque villa in a stunning natural environment, facing the Pyrenees. The estate is spread across 4 hectares of land with colourful flower beds, pergolas and ponds, and the children will enjoy blowing off steam in the Versailles-style landscaped garden. 

Put on your aprons! With help from two pastry chefs, you’ll be learning how to make a Gâteau Basque, from forming the dough to decorating the cake with the famous pastry cream and Basque crosses. Children from the age of 8 will enjoy this simple, fun activity making the shortcrust pastry, decorating the Gâteau Basque and making little shortbread biscuits! 

Stand Up Paddleboarding originated in Polynesia and is a great new experience out on the water. This activity is suitable for little adventurers from the age of 10, and it will put your sense of balance to the test because you'll be standing on the board and using a paddle to help you move forwards. Depending on what you fancy doing, there are several options to choose from: excursions out at sea to admire the famous twin rocks of Hendaye or peaceful outings on the river to explore the Basque Country in an original way. In Hendaye, the Surf Gold Coast surf school has been specialised in water sports since 1982. One of the main advantages of using this surf school is that you'll also have access to the changing rooms and showers.

This traditional workshop is a hidden treasure in the centre of the village of Larressore and has several prestigious awards including the title of Best Craftsman of France, a star in the Michelin green guide, UNESCO status, and the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (EPV) (Living Heritage Company) label. For seven generations now, the workshop has been keeping this traditional Basque art of making makhilas alive. These walking sticks are iconic in the region, and are works of art and practical objects rolled into one. Each piece is unique, shaped thanks to expertise and passion that has been passed down through the generations, representing Basque cultural heritage. This workshop is a chance to take a look into the fascinating world of craftsmanship, and visitors can see the techniques up close, from the choice of wood to personalised engravings on the finished product. An unmissable experience for those looking to discover authentic traditions. 

With Explore Océan, set off on a captivating experience into the world of dolphins, whales and pilot whales.  Board a spacious catamaran with a team of passionate scientists at the port of Hendaye, to observe these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat, while respecting them of course. On this boat trip, you’ll learn so much from the experts about how these animals live, their behaviour and the importance of protecting their natural habitat.  A wonderful opportunity to see these residents of the ocean up close.

This guesthouse is a heavenly place to stay, nestled in the lush-green hills of Bidache, just 30 minutes from Biarritz. It is surrounded by a vast garden and there is a swimming pool and permaculture vegetable garden. Guests are welcomed into the warm and inviting lobby where there is also a wide range of local products available to buy. The dining room is an elegant place with a great atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the carefully prepared meals, while the private lounge is a peaceful room to relax and unwind in. For those looking for a wellness break, there is a spacious yoga and meditation studio available to use. A relaxing break for everyone.

For avid walkers, the Kakuetta gorges are a superb place for a family adventure in the great outdoors. From the departure point up to the impressive waterfalls, the whole walk takes around 2 hours. You'll be walking along a cleared footpath, perfectly maintained tracks and secure bridges, so that the whole family can expect a safe and unforgettable experience.