Best things to do in Aquitaine and France’s Basque region

Aquitaine and France’s Basque region ticks all the boxes for a quintessential French experience: food, wine, art, history and good weather.

France’s Nouvelle Aquitaine region is a generous scoop of land the size of Austria that runs along the south-west coast and furrows into the centre of the country. Consequently, it covers a vast and varied chunk of France with the landscapes, climates and cultural quirks that go with it. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and a scattering of little islands to the west, the Pyrenees mountains to the south, and forests and rural villages to the east, it has a sunny climate and a host of different vibes.

The Aquitaine region starts in the middle of the Atlantic coast at La Rochelle before entering Basque Country further south which has a strong prehistoric history and a proud cultural identity. It’s a vibrant mix of Spanish influence where food, tradition and colours are held in high regard. Snow-capped mountains, surf spots and vineyards vie for attention and there’s always something going on !