Spain by bike, greenways of the Basque Country and Navarre

Spain by bike, Basque Country and Navarre along the greenways and EuroVelo 1

This tour begins in the capital of the Basque Country, Vitoria-Gasteiz. Take the greenways and discover the provinces of Navarre and Euskadi by bike. You catch up with EuroVelo 1 in Estella-Lizarra and follow this European cycle route to the end, San Sebastian. In the heart of surprising nature, this route takes you through Natural Parks to visit a beautiful heritage and enjoy gourmet gastronomy.

Points of interest:

• Vitoria-Gasteiz, the green capital of the Basque Country
• The cities of Pamplona and San Sebastian
• Izki Natural Park
• Gastronomy
• Greenways on an old railway line with more than 40 tunnels
• The monumental complex of Antoñana
• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Estíbaliz

Day 1: arrival in Vitoria-Gasteiz

Settle into your hotel and take the time to visit the capital of the Basque Country. If you have rented bicycles, they will be delivered directly to the hotel.

Day 2: from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Maestu - 31 km / + 460 m

This first stage takes place on a greenway built on the old railway line which connects the Basque Country to Navarre. A stop at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Estíbaliz, a jewel of Romanesque art dating from the 11th century, is essential. You gradually penetrate into the typical forests of this green region and visit its charming little villages. A few hills to expect this day but nothing insurmountable.

Day 3: from Maestu to Estella-Lizarra - 45 km / + 60 m

After a few pedal strokes, we leave the province of Alava to enter Navarre. You arrive in Estella-Lizarra via the old railway line and directly to the old train station, now transformed into a bus station. The village is magnificent with its medieval heritage. This is evidenced by the Church of San Pedro de la Rúa and the Palace of the Kings of Navarre.

Day 4: from Estella-Lizarra to Pamplona - 60 km / + 700m

Today you leave the Vasco Navarro greenway to take the EuroVelo 1 route which is largely inspired by the Camino Frances (pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela). The landscapes change completely, it’s a magnificent stage. In Pamplona, you absolutely must visit the historic center.

Day 5: from Pamplona to Lekunberri - 40 km / + 450 m

You leave the capital of Navarre under the watchful eye of Mount San Cristobal. The Plazaola greenway takes you nicely to Lekunberri.

Day 6: from Lekunberri to San Sebastian - 65 km / + 170 m

This last step is remarkable. Forests and valleys accompany us until the end. With more than 40 tunnels to cross, dress warmly. Some being closed you will have to climb a little and make a detour which is worth it. The arrival in San Sebstian is via secondary roads and urban cycle paths. The incredible bay of the capital of Guipuzcoa (one of the three autonomous communities of Spain) is waiting for you.

Day 7: San Sebastian

End of the tour after breakfast.

General informations :

• 7 days and 6 nights
• Comfort level of accommodation: charming hotels and guest rooms
• Child rates: contact us

The dates :

• Departure every day from April 1 to October 15, 2024
• Low season: from 04/16 to 06/14 and from 09/16 to 10/15
• High season: from 01/04 to 15/04 and from 15/06 to 15/09

Included :

• 6 nights in charming hotels or guest rooms
• 6 breakfasts
• Baggage transfer
• Travelogue

Not included :

• Transportation to the starting point
• Lunches and dinners
• Anything not specified in “included”

The options :

• Rental of VTC, or VAE (Electricly Assisted Bike)
• Theft guarantee for the rented bike
• Multi-risk cancellation insurance

Levels:
1 2 3 4 5 6

Climate :
Moderate continental climate inland. Warm and temperate climate in San Sebastian.
 
Technicality and terrain:

• 40 to 65 km per day or 2 to 5 hours of cycling
• Between 60 and 700 m of positive altitude difference (requires good physical condition or an e-bike)
• Circuit mainly on greenways or cycle paths. Some sports are on secondary roads with light traffic.

 
Meal :

• Breakfasts: copious (coffee, tea, chocolate, milk, bread butter, jam, orange juice)
• Lunch: not included
• Dinner: not included.
   

The bike :

• Rental bike: bikes equipped with front suspension, supplied with rear bags, helmet, reflective vest, repair kit, lock. VTC or VAE.
• Personal bike: VTC and mountain bikes are excellent. Remember to service your bicycle before leaving. At the end of your tour, you will need to take care of your bike.

 
Support:
Assistance in the event of a breakdown (except punctures for which we do not intervene).
 
Travelogue :
We will provide you with detailed maps and a description of the routes, sent to your home before departure. We will also give you vouchers for the hotel and restaurant.
 
Transportation :

• By train: approximately 8h30 by train to Vitoria-Gasteiz from Paris
• By car: Vitoria-Gasteiz is located 930 km from Paris
• By plane: Bilbao, Pamplona, San Sebastian or Burgos airports

Cancellation insurance :
To guarantee reimbursement of costs in the event of cancellation of your stay, you can take out cancellation insurance. To learn more about insurance, click here.