Pyrenees & Basque Country - 8 Days

Pyrenees & Basque Country Driving Tour

From the sunny, historical city of Barcelona on the eastern shores of Spain, spend 8 days cruising coasts, forests and mountains to Bilbao on the Cantabrian Sea. The Pyrenees and Basque Country are relative hidden gems in Western Europe, meaning fewer tourists and open roads as you immerse yourself in the beauty of these lands.

This 7-night Pyrenees and Basque Country driving tour offers a captivating journey through diverse landscapes, starting in the vibrant city of Barcelona. From there, head north to the medieval town of Peralada, known for its charming architecture and wineries. Continue to the tiny principality of Andorra, where scenic mountain roads and tax-free shopping await. The next stop is the ski resort of Baqueira-Beret, nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees and offering breathtaking alpine views.

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Pyrenees & Basque Country Driving Tour

Day 1 - Arrive in Barcelona

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 Hotel: 5-Star Hotel Boutique Mirlo Barcelona

Day 2 - Barcelona to Peralada

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 Hotel: 5-Star Hotel Peralada Wine Spa & Golf

Day 3 - Peralada to Andorra

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 Hotel: 5-Star Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa

Day 4 - Andorra to Baqeuira-Beret

Overnight Hotel: 5-Star Val de Neu

Day 5 – Baqueira-Beret to Canfranc

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

Day 6 – Canfranc to San Sebastian

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 Hotel: 5-Star Hotel Akelarre OR 5-Star Nobu Hotel San Sebastián

Day 7 – San Sebastián to Bilbao

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 Hotel: 5-Star Palacio Arriluce Hotel

Day 8 – Final Day in Bilbao

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.

For even more details, choose your desired car and click "Continue" to fill out our inquiry form. Or, send us an email at info@ultimatedrives.net

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