Private French Biarritz Market Picnic From San Sebastian

Private French Biarritz Market Picnic From San Sebastian Photo #1 of 2 Photo copyright ShoreTrips.com.

Overview

Basque is part of Spain but the locals would say that they are their own country.

It is nice to know that the border between the northern part of Spain and southern France share their identity as Basques. There is nothing better than Spain and France merging, especially in the kitchen!!

It would be a sin to visit San Sebastian and not take advantage of the close proximity of its northern neighbor, Biarritz, France. These two towns, along with others in the vicinity, are part of Basque country. Basque Country is an autonomous community in northern Spain and identify as a Southwestern European ethnic group. They straddle the borders of Spain and France and include the Pyrenees in their community. Basque Country is famous for its beaches and modern architecture but the countryside is awe-inspiring from its majestic mountains to its stunning coastline, a favorite among surfers. From the rivers and waterfalls to well-preserved forests, it may be the most beautiful landscape in all these countries.

You will enjoy your short ride from San Sebastian to Biarritz. The markets in this area are open daily and though you may have visited markets in the past around Europe, there is a specialness to this one. It is a center of socializing as the artisan producers come from their farms each day and the locals, whether they are restauranteurs, chefs, or the public, bring the activity to another level. As you arrive mid-morning, you will be hit immediately with the aromas wafting by - the charcuterie, the foie gras and jamon de Bayonne, a cured ham from the ancient port city of Bayonne in the far southwest of France, as well as the cheeses. But the biggest draw is the fragrance of fresh baguettes just out of the oven.

Your guide is familiar with many of these stall owners as well as the locals that you will have a front seat watching the interaction between everyone here. The atmosphere is bustling with local stands and the little taverns getting ready for aperitivo time.

Baskets of vegetables and peppers line the aisles and your guide will pick up a few goodies with your input before hitting the fish stalls. The fresh oyster or prawns are calling for a chilled local white wine and by the time you leave this market, you will have the ingredients for a picnic! With one exception, a quick stop for some gateau Basque, or 'cake of the house'. We aren't giving more info than this - you will have to wait and see!

You will enjoy your picnic at the market building, comfortably in rain or shine, warm or cold. There is nothing fresher than this and the whole intention is to make this a memorable experience of participation.

Less than a 30-minute drive is another charming 'village', Saint-Jean-de-Luz, with a fascinating history. In Spanish, 'luz' means 'light' and this inspirational fishing town sits on a crescent-shaped bay, a beach with fine sand and an old town filled with colorful Basque houses, and it is easy to feel the light! As you listen to the tale of the royals, you will make your way to the famous Beñat, the most well-known of the cheesemakers in this area. A tasting in his shop in the market is in your future - and you will forget all about history once you try it.

- Please dress comfortably.
- We suggest you bring a water bottle.
- Picnic lunch is included. Fresh oysters, prawns, cheese, bread, ham and wine, all with your input.
- You may want to bring a credit card or money in the event you wish to make a personal purchase.
- Any other food and/or beverage that is not in the tour description is not included.
- Please do not forget to give your guide and driver a gratuity for this special day.

- This vehicle used for this tour can accommodate 7 guests. Please let us know and we will price it accordingly. Larger parties can also be accommodated with notice.

Days offered: 7 days a week

Departures:

• 10:00 AM, duration: 6.5 hours Length is approximate.