Pyrénées-Atlantiques is one of the departments that compose the region of
Aquitaine. Located in the extreme South-West part of France, it has a common border with
Spain and it is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the chain of mountains of the Pyrénées. Culturally speaking, it belongs to what we call the
Basque country, on the French side. Those geographic and cultural characteristics created the department’s identity as we know it today. Rich, diverse and astonishing, Pyrénées-Atlantiques will satisfy any king of holiday-maker.
On the cultural point of view, it is fascinating to discover this part of France. The whole department is shaped by its Basque identity which is visible in many points. Some sports are specific like the Basque pelota for instance, but also the language (the Basque) that some people still speak, or bullfighting. In this department, folklore has been preserved. Indeed, you could see in many popular celebrations in cities like
Biarritz,
Saint-Jean-de-Luz,
Pau or
Bayonne where some inhabitants wear traditional costumes and dance on Basque songs.
On a natural point of view, the region is wonderful. Either in the countryside, along the cost or in the mountains, it will offer great landscapes to your eyes. You could easily
rent a house or
book a room in a
Bed and Breakfast for a
weekend or
holidays in this environment. You could also do some hiking thanks to special paths going through the department. On the sea side, Pyrénées-Atlantiques are the cradle of surfing. Many contests gather the best surfers of the world on its beaches and tourists can enjoy the show.