Life in the Pays Basque: Southwest France's Hidden Gem

Pays Basque

Usually, when expats mention living in France, you hear about life in Paris, but after chasing big cities in my 20s, I found joy in a coastal area of Pays Basque in my 30s. The southwest of France, with its mountains, coast, and top-notch local producers, deserves way more appreciation. Living near the Spanish border also has its perks, offering quick escapes into Spanish culture, tapas, and sangria.

Basque Culture

The Basque Country, or Pays Basque, straddles northern Spain and southern France near the Pyrénées Mountains. It boasts a unique identity, culture, and traditions.The Basque culture is deeply rooted in its history, with a strong emphasis on community and tradition.Euskara, one of the oldest living languages, is still spoken in small villages, seen on street signs, and taught in bilingual Basque/French schools.

Basque Food

In France in general, a great meal and sitting together at the table is central to any occasion. However, this region of France is rich with Michelin-starred restaurants, claiming more per kilometer than any other area. Basque cuisine is celebrated for its simplicity and reliance on high-quality, local ingredients. If you pop into any boulangerie, make sure to try the Gateau Basque, a traditional dessert made with pastry cream or cherry filling.

Basque Architecture

Basque architecture is marked by its distinctive farmhouses known as "etxeas," which feature sloped roofs, wooden beams, and balconies adorned with flowers. The region's architectural heritage is protected by strict regulations to preserve its unique character, blending harmoniously with the natural landscape. While driving through you will notice mostly red, green and white homes dotted amongst the foothills and along the coastline.

Our Journey

When we first moved to the region, we landed a beachside apartment in Biarritz, the birthplace of European surfing. Our apartment overlooked Côte des Basque, where summer nights were filled with tourists and locals enjoying sunsets, wine, and the late evenings. After two and a half years, despite the beauty, the tourist influx became too much, and with a very large Cane Corso squished in our space, prompted our move 20 minutes inland. We are currently settling into even more peace and quiet, enjoying both the coast and the Pyrenees' rolling foothills.

Our Current Home

Given the area's popularity amongst European travellers and expense, we've chosen to continue renting while investing elsewhere. We've made a conscious effort to make our rental feel like home, reflecting our style and warmth. I will be posting many DIY solutions for renters, and where to look and source great products for your home!

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Biarritz Travel Guide: Top Must-Do's in Southwest France

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Adapting American DIY Design Ideas for European Homes