Pyrenees & Basque Country Pyrenees & Basque Country

Pyrenees & Basque Country

Barcelona7 Nights6 Drives

  • Highlights
  • Itinerary
  • Package Includes
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This driving tour is a one-of-a-kind road trip through some of the most underrated corners of Europe. Starting in Barcelona, the route takes you over the rugged spine of the Pyrenees and into the coastal magic of the Basque Country. You’ll climb more than a dozen mountain passes, drive cliffside coastal roads, and experience a changing landscape from Mediterranean shores to snow-capped summits—all while staying in luxury hotels and exploring historic towns along the way.

It’s six days of back-to-back scenery and serious driving pleasure, with highlights like the jaw-dropping N260 (a must for any driving enthusiast), Col de Envalira at over 2,400m, and the epic Jaizkibel road into San Sebastián. Each day finishes with a hotel that’s more than just a place to sleep—it’s part of the journey. Whether you’re sipping wine in Peralada, relaxing in a converted train station in Canfranc, or dining by the sea in San Sebastián, this tour blends high-performance roads with culture, food, and just enough indulgence.

If you’re looking for an off-the-radar European road trip that punches way above its weight in beauty, adventure, and authenticity, this is it.

Prices from: €14500

Tour Availability: May – October

Tour Highlights

Sights & Stops

  • Costa Brava Coastline: Discover a stunning rugged coastline of hidden coves, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages along Catalonia’s beautiful ‘Wild Coast’.
  • San Sebastián: Indulge in world-class gastronomy and enjoy the elegant horseshoe bay of San Sebastián, a sophisticated coastal city with a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Gaztelugatxe: Visit the dramatic and iconic islet of Gaztelugatxe, climbed via a winding road featured in Game of Thrones and offering breathtaking coastal views.

Drive Highlights

  • Pyrenees Axis (N260): Drive the N260, often called the ‘Pyrenees Axis’, a fantastic road offering mile after mile of exhilarating driving through the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees.
  • Port de la Bonaigua: Tackle the impressive Port de la Bonaigua, one of the highest road passes in the Catalan Pyrenees with sweeping vistas and memorable curves.
  • Jaizkibel Road: Experience the thrilling Jaizkibel Road, a coastal climb near San Sebastián famous for its challenging bends and stunning clifftop views.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Barcelona Expand

Arrive in Barcelona and begin your journey with a stay at a luxurious 5-star hotel. Relax in elegant surroundings before heading out to explore Barcelona’s vibrant streets, enjoy world-class Catalan cuisine, or sip cocktails on a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Sagrada Família.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star SLS Barcelona

Day 2 – Barcelona to Peralada Expand

This scenic drive begins by leaving Barcelona and heads northeast, with a coffee stop at the Camiral Golf Resort. After a winding 40-minute drive through the lower Pyrenees, the route crosses a rural valley before reaching the stunning Costa Brava coast. Enjoy a thrilling drive along the coastline, with an option to visit a winery in the coastal mountains. After crossing into France, stop for lunch in a charming seaside town and take a photo at Cap Cerbere lighthouse. The journey continues to the picturesque town of Collioure, known for its Royal Castle, before heading to historical Peralada for an overnight stay.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star Hotel Peralada Wine Spa & Golf

Day 3 – Peralada to Andorra Expand

Starting from your hotel on the southern edge of the Pyrenees, the drive quickly ascends into the mountains, crossing into France and navigating the D115 – Col d’Ares with thrilling bends and hairpins. After passing Canigo peak, you return to Spain, with a lunch stop in Ripoll. The route then takes you through five mountain passes, including Coll de la Merolla, Coll de la Creueta, and the Pyrenees Axis, offering stunning views. The final leg takes you through the Coll de Pimorent into Andorra, summiting at Coll de Envalira, one of Europe’s highest passes, before reaching Soldeu. The route also passes Circuit Andorra, the highest permanent race track, where you can experience karting or ice racing.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa

Day 4 – Andorra to Baqueira-Beret Expand

This drive crosses the entire country of Andorra, starting in the ski town of Soldeu and heading west towards the capital, La Vella. Enjoy a scenic route with a stop at a breathtaking overlook, and optionally take a short shuttle to the Pont Tibeta suspension bridge or detour up Col de Cabus, a former smugglers’ route. After descending into La Vella, continue along the stunning N260, the Pyrenees Axis, to Sort for lunch. The drive then leads to the Port de la Bonaigua mountain pass, offering fantastic views before arriving at the ski resort town of Baqueira-Beret for the night.

Overnight Stay: 4-Star Mercure Loudenvielle Pyrenees Peyragudes

Day 5 – Baqueira-Beret to Canfranc Expand

Today’s drive takes you through four stunning French Pyrenees passes, starting with the Col du Portillon from Baqueira-Beret into France. Continue through the town of Luchon, then climb the gentle Peyresourde pass before tackling the adrenaline-pumping Col d’Azet. Optionally, take a 20-minute detour to the scenic alpine lakes of Cap-de-Long and d’Oredon. After photos, cross back into Spain via the Aragnouet Tunnel. Follow the Barrosa and Cinca rivers to the medieval village of Ainsa, then drive through picturesque landscapes to Jaca. Finish the day with a thrilling 20-minute climb to the ski resort of Canfranc.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star Canfranc Estación, a Royal Hideaway Hotel

Day 6 – Canfranc to San Sebastián Expand

Today’s drive takes you from high mountain passes to the Basque coastline. Start by crossing into France via Col du Somport and head towards Pau, passing the Fort Portalet. Take an optional detour to the summit of Puerto de Larrau, a breathtaking pass with hairpin turns and views of free-range animals. After returning to Larrau for lunch, continue through scenic passes like Col de Curutcheta and Col de Burdincurutcheta, reaching Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port for another lunch stop. Cross Col d’Ispeguy before descending to Irun and driving along the stunning Jaizkibel Road, offering panoramic views of the Basque Coast. Finish the day in San Sebastián, with a choice of luxurious hotels.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star Nobu Hotel San Sebastián

Day 7 – San Sebastián Expand

Today’s drive takes you along the stunning Basque Country coastline, starting in the beach resort city of San Sebastián and ending in the vibrant city of Bilbao. For a quicker route, you can drive directly to Bilbao in an hour, but the scenic drive offers lush forests, vineyards, beaches, and crashing waves. Stops include a visit to the Txakoli Ameztoi winery, lunch in Lekeitio, and a must-see stop at the famous Gaztelugatxe, known for its stone bridge and church. Afterward, continue to Bilbao, where you can explore the city’s iconic old town or visit the Guggenheim Museum.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star Palacio Arriluce Hotel

Day 8 – Departures from Bilbao Expand

Bilbao has much to see, so come prepared knowing your top few priorities. The largest “hot spot” of tourist attractions is around the Old Town with its “Seven Streets,” gothic cathedrals, Ribera Market, Plaza Nueva and more. The Guggenheim is also a top attraction and the many bridges across the river.

Package Includes

  • Luxury Car Rental & Insurance
  • Arrival Transfer
  • Ample KM
  • 7 Nights in Luxury Accommodation
  • Daily Breakfasts
  • Curated Driving Itinerary
  • eRoadbook & Navigation Links
  • CarPlay & Android Auto Integration
  • On-Call Support
  • Car delivery & pick up directly at your hotel

Ask a Question

If you have any questions about our ‘Pyrenees & Basque Country’ Driving Vacation, simply fill out the form below. One of out experienced team members will get back to you within 24 hours.

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    * The Package Total Price is for 2 people sharing the car and a room, plus any add-ons chosen.