The Basque Country is one of the most attractive and captivating regions in Spain, not only for its history and gastronomy but also for its quality of life. If you live outside Spain and are looking for a place to relocate to, the Basque Country is an option worth considering. We tell you why exploring the Basque Country is an option to be considered.
Basque History and Culture
The Basque Country has its own cultural and linguistic identity. With a history dating back thousands of years, it is home to one of the oldest languages in Europe: the Basque language. Its industrial past, combined with an agricultural tradition, makes it a different and unique region. Each town and village has its charm and festivities that celebrate both the Basque heritage and its modernity.
Tourism
In addition to such international cities as Bilbao, with its imposing Guggenheim Museum, and San Sebastian, famous for its beaches and gastronomy, the Basque Country hides many lesser-known corners.
Urdaibai: This Biosphere Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers. With unspoilt beaches, marshes, and a great diversity of fauna, it is perfect for hiking, bird-watching or simply relaxing.
Zumaia: With its impressive cliffs and geological formations (flysch), Zumaia is a spectacular destination, ideal for geology enthusiasts and for enjoying less crowded beaches.
Pasajes de San Juan (Pasaia): A charming fishing village near San Sebastian, with cobbled streets and sea views that will transport you to another time.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a dramatic islet with a winding stone path leading to a centuries-old hermitage, offers breathtaking views of the rugged Basque coastline. Famous for being featured in Game of Thrones as Dragonstone, it’s a must-visit for those seeking a mix of natural beauty, cinematic history, and cultural intrigue.
The Guggenheim Museum is a must-see. It was inaugurated in 1997 and is one of the most iconic works of contemporary architecture, designed by Frank Gehry. Located in Bilbao, Spain, its avant-garde structure of titanium, stone, and glass makes it a cultural and tourist landmark. The museum houses an outstanding collection of modern and contemporary art, with works by international artists such as Jeff Koons, Mark Rothko and Yves Klein. The Guggenheim has played a key role in the urban revitalisation of Bilbao, becoming a symbol of modernity and creativity on the world art scene.
Gastronomy
Basque gastronomy is world-renowned, not only for its haute cuisine, with restaurants such as Arzak and Azurmendi but also for its traditional dishes. Pintxos, small, elaborate morsels, are a fundamental part of Basque gastronomic culture, along with dishes such as cod Biscayan style, marmitako (tuna stew) or txuletones (T-bone steak). The Basque Country also has an established wine-producing tradition, with Txakoli, a young white wine, taking centre stage.
Cinema
The San Sebastian International Film Festival (SSIFF), one of Europe’s most prestigious film festivals, has been held every year since 1953 in San Sebastian. It is a festival of world renown for its artistic quality and ability to attract great filmmakers and promising new filmmakers.
The festival awards important prizes, with the Golden Shell being the highest award. Over the years, it has been a crucial platform for international cinema particularly Spanish and Latin American cinema, with a strong focus on cultural diversity and narrative innovation. It is known for its commitment to auteur cinema, giving visibility to independent and socially committed films, and for its ability to unite tradition and the avant-garde.
Climate
The climate is another of its attractions, as the Basque Country enjoys an oceanic climate, with mild temperatures all year round. The winters are not too cold and the summers are pleasant and cool, making it a perfect place for those who shun extremes of climate. Rainfall is frequent, especially in autumn and winter, which is key to keeping the landscape green all year round.
Quality of life
Security and well-being: The Basque Country is one of the safest regions in Spain, with a high quality of life and a high standard of public services, including health and education.
Infrastructure and connectivity: Getting around the region is easy with a good public transport system and well-maintained roads. In addition, its proximity to France and excellent rail and air links to the rest of Europe make it a strategic location.
Job opportunities: The Basque Country has a strong economy, driven by sectors such as industry, technology, and tourism. The region has a low unemployment rate compared to other parts of Spain, making it easy to find employment.
Quiet but dynamic life: Basque towns and villages offer a unique combination of quiet life with a cosmopolitan edge. You can enjoy both cultural and sporting activities, as well as the peace and nature that surrounds the region.
The Basque Country has it all: a fascinating history, an internationally renowned gastronomy, a friendly climate, and a quality of life that few other regions can offer. Suppose you are looking for a place where tradition and modernity go hand in hand, with intense local culture and spectacular natural surroundings. In that case, the northern Spanish region is an excellent place to move to. Here you will find a home and way of life you will love.
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