Pays Basque, Corbiere & Drome
Gastronomic Trail through hidden France
- 14 Days
- From 9,865
- France
- Moderate
Moderate: Designed for hikers with some experience, offering longer trails and varied terrain.
Highlights
- Discover Ainhoa and the Basque Country: Begin your journey in the unique Pays Basque, with its distinct language, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees. Enjoy diverse landscapes and a generous climate.
- Explore the Medieval Charm of Carcassonne: Wander through Carcassonne, the world's best-preserved medieval fortress, and experience the historic grandeur of the Cathar region. Sample fine Corbière wine and stroll along the scenic Canal du Midi.
- Wander Through Grignan in Drôme Provençale: Soak in the beauty of this charming hilltop town, surrounded by vineyards, lavender fields, and olive groves. Visit the renaissance château and enjoy local Rhône Valley wine.
- Immerse in Local Traditions and Flavours: Walk through picturesque countryside, visit olive mills and wineries and explore the ancient Roman ruins in Vaison-la-Romaine. Each stop offers a taste of the region's rich history and culture.
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable hiking journey through the heart of Southern France, beginning in Ainhoa, a charming village in the Pays Basque. This region, distinct in its culture and language, sits between the Atlantic coastline and the soaring Pyrenees. With its unique blend of rugged and cultivated landscapes, all set against the backdrop of a temperate climate, the Basque Country offers a truly diverse experience.
Our journey continues west along the Pyrenees to Carcassonne, situated in the scenic Aude region, home to the renowned “Corbières” wine. Carcassonne is celebrated as one of the most well-preserved medieval fortresses in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site, originally constructed by the Cathars, has a rich history of triumph and decline, before its careful restoration in the 19th century.
Explore this remarkable area with guided walks through the limestone plateaus of the “Causses” near the village of Minerve, and discover the hidden vineyards of Corbières in the countryside surrounding Carcassonne. Wander along the 17th-century “Canal du Midi,” a serene waterway shaded by century-old plane trees, passing through charming villages along the way.
The final stage of the tour brings us to Grignan, a beautiful hilltop town in the Drôme Provençale region, bordering the Rhône Valley. Grignan is famous for its Renaissance château, which plays host to cultural festivals and concerts during the summer.
In this region, known for some of the finest “Côte du Rhône” wines, the landscape unfolds as a vibrant patchwork of vineyards, lavender fields, olive groves, apricot orchards, and truffle oak plantations. The beauty of the countryside is matched only by the warmth and hospitality of its people.
As we explore these timeless villages, it feels as though life has paused in a simpler era. Our walks will take you through a variety of terrains, from rolling hills to pastoral farms, allowing you to experience the best of local produce through visits to olive mills and wineries. In the nearby town of Vaison-la-Romaine, you’ll uncover fascinating remnants of ancient Roman settlements, adding a historical dimension to this captivating journey.
This journey offers an immersive experience, combining breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the authentic flavours of Southern France.
Hotels & Cuisine
Our journey begins in the heart of Pays Basque, where the first few days are spent in the charming village of Ainhoa, often regarded as one of the most picturesque villages in the region. We’re staying in a cosy 17th-century hotel that holds the prestigious status of a historical monument. Once a hostel for pilgrims travelling along the “French Route” of the Pilgrim’s Trail, the hotel now offers modern comforts while preserving its historical charm. Set within a secluded garden, the hotel features a swimming pool and sauna, providing a relaxing retreat. Its restaurant, famed for its elegant dining experience, has earned a Michelin star in recent years, showcasing the finest local cuisine with a refined touch.
Next, we head to the Corbières region, where we stay in a small chateau just outside of the medieval city of Carcassonne. Nestled within the chateau’s own vineyards, this intimate accommodation offers a true taste of local life. Wine, produced on-site in the chateau’s cellars, flows freely at the generously set dinner table, complementing the rich and hearty fare that highlights the flavours of the region. The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, a perfect spot to savour the fruits of the land.
Our journey concludes in Grignan, where we stay in a stunning four-star hotel set amidst a vast park at the foot of the town’s magnificent Renaissance Chateau. Housed in an 18th-century building that was once the residence of the local doctor and maire of Grignan, the hotel exudes timeless elegance. The rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated, and offer a serene retreat after a day of exploration. Dinner is served in the hotel’s dining room, with large windows providing open views of the surrounding gardens. On pleasant evenings, dining al fresco on the terrace is a treat, allowing you to soak in the tranquil beauty of the French countryside.
Transportation
Ainhoa
Hôtel Ithurria
Siran
Chateau De Siran
Grignan
Le Clos de la Tuilière
begins
02 October 2025
Biarritz, France
ends
