BASQUE COUNTRY
BASQUE COUNTRY is known for its indigenous culture, including its own language and folklore. Its coast features the seaside jewel San Sebastian, a revered destination for food enthusiasts – boasting 15 Michelin stars! The region’s largest city Bilbao features Frank Gehry’s avant-garde Guggenheim Museum. Pristine natural parks and verdant landscapes offer hiking, golf and mountain sports. Airports: Biarritz International, San Sebastian
Castillo de Arteaga |
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(www.castillodearteaga.com) P. 464
Nestled in the Basque Country’s Urdaibai Reserve, a natural biosphere located on the Bay of Biscay, Castillo de Arteaga rises dramatically above a lush green landscape. The castle’s tower dates back to the 13th century; the current structure was restored in 1856 by Napoleon III; and in 2000, the castle was transformed into a stunning 13-room/suite hotel combining period features with modern comforts. Guests may spend their days exploring the surrounding reserve with its rivers, marshes and meadows – and their evenings enjoying a delicious meal at the castle’s restaurant or wine tasting in the well-stocked cellar. On-site activities include cooking classes, biking, hiking, horseback riding, and fishing. Nearby activities include all manner of water sports.
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Restaurante Akelare |
Michelin 3-Star
Relais & Chateaux Grand Chef |
(www.akelarre.net) P. 467
Located just five minutes from the centre of San Sebastian in a hexagonal villa, this 3-Michelin star restaurant became a must for serious foodies when owner/chef Pedro Subijana won the 1983 National Prize for Gastronomy as the best chef in Spain. His preparations have influenced a generation of chefs and defined the entire philosophy of modern Basque cuisine. The restaurant offers a sweeping view of the Bay of Biscay far below.
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Restaurant Martin Berasategui |
Michelin 3-Star
Relais & Chateaux Grand Chef
#34 of The European 50 Best Restaurants
by 50Best.com |
(www.martinberasategui.com) P. 465
Located in an elegant mansion in the countryside just 6 km outside San Sebastian in Lasarte, close to the pilgrimage route of Compostela, this famous restaurant was voted 29th best restaurant in the world by Restaurant magazine in 2008 and has maintained its 3-star rating from Michelin since 2001. One of the best known chefs in Spain, Martin Berasategui uses new techniques and products to create exciting new dishes. The tasting menu with exclusive wine pairings is highly recommended.
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Restaurante Arzak |
Michelin 3-Star
Relais & Chateaux Grand Chef
#18 of The European 50 Best Restaurants
by 50Best.com
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(www.arzak.info) P. 466
Located on the eastern outskirts of San Sebastian, this 3-Michelin star restaurant (since 1989) was originally built as a house in 1897 then operated as a wine inn and tavern by the grandparents of the current owners Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena. Juan Mari was one of the founders of new Basque cuisine in 1977, and Arzak was awarded the Universal Basque award for adapting gastronomy, one of the most important traditions of the Basque Country, to contemporary cuisine, making it one of the most innovative of the world.
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