Sporting Activities
Being by the sea and close to the Pyrenees Mountains invites many sporting activities, including:
- Take surfing lessons. You’re never too old to learn this Southern California sport imported to the south of France. Gentle breakers, protected bays and long beaches make for quick mastery of this sport at any age.
- Golf was imported by the British when they spent winters here at the turn of the 20th century and there are some spectacular courses among the 12 that dot the area. Biarritz is the sister city to Augusta, Georgia, home to the Masters golf tournament. A Season Away VillaHosts can arrange preferred tee times and golf lessons to tune up your game!
- Spend the day with a commercial fisherman from St. Jean de Luz fishing for tuna, sardines and other “wildlife of the sea.” This is hard work, but can be a wonderful trip for a parent-child to appreciate the profession and the sea.
- Learn the challenging game of pelota (Jai Alai) from a multiple-year French national pelota champion.
- Take a guided sea kayaking adventure along the Atlantic coast of France and Spain
- Learn the art of “beachcasting,” or fishing from in and around the enormous ocean waves by a professional.
- The Pyrenees offer incomparable day and multi-day hikes, lead by locals who can guide, keep an eye on changing weather conditions and regale you with stories of Basque culture on the way. One trip even includes a lunch at a converted bergerie or sheep fold with spectacular views.
- Bike with members of a local biking club! Or descend Baigura Mountain on a breathtaking ride!
- Ever tried off-road four-wheel drive trips? Head into the hills of the Pyrenees with self-guided vehicles, connected via audio, and head up shepherds’ paths for breathtaking, unspoiled vistas.
- River rafting in the Pyrenees is fun and good for all ages as the rapids are not too challenging on the Nive River. Trip includes everything from transportation, to hot showers at the end!
