Drive through the Spanish Basque Country, and you’ll fall in love with its wind-swept Cantabrian coastline, enchanting countryside villages, and colourful fishing towns. The Basque Country is not only known for its awe-inspiring destinations but also for its cultural hidden gems. Basque Country treasures like its award-winning gastronomy, its distinctive alcoholic drinks, and unusual euskadi festivities make this region unique. Once you visit, you’ll crave more of that northern Spanish spirit.
The Basques know how to throw a festival. A great example of this is the Tamborrada, a loud and massive drum festival of over 15,000 participants who dress in costume and beat their drums. It dates to Napoleon’s army, when the Basque women mocked the French troops who had drummed around the city.
A huge part of Basque eating rituals includes Pintxos. These are small, bite-sized appetizers served on toothpicks, and having them is a fun food custom designed for gathering people together.
Foodies flock to the many Michelin-starred restaurants like Arzak, Asador Etxebarri, and Martin Berasategui. In fact, Basque Country is home to the second-most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita.
Try Txacoli, a dry Basque wine made from indigenous grape varieties. Crisp and slightly effervescent, Txakoli is served by pouring the wine from a height into the glass, creating an interesting and fun wine-drinking experience!
Or, taste some exquisite wine from Rioja Alavesa, part of the famous Rioja wine region that is nestled within the Basque Country. Rioja’s unique terroir, with its high-altitude vineyards, distinct soil, and cooler climate produces the unique wines that are famous worldwide.
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