Any thoughts on our projected itineary over a few weeks which would possibly include stops in Andorra (Rick doesn't seem crazy about the capital city), Toulouse or Carcassonne & San Sebastian? Any feedback on these places or others along the way would be appreciated...Thanks, Marty
Posted by
Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
324 posts
Andorra is great, if you like the idea of a gigantic shopping mall in an Heidi setting. Otherwise, just give it a miss. In France, Biarritz and Arcachón are wonderful little beach towns (the first, ritzy, and the second a fishing village). Dax is a pretty little town with a nice chateau. (Actually, I've liked most of what I've seen of the Pays Basque.) Closer to BCN, you might check out Tremp, Pobla de Segúr, Olot, Sort, etc. If you like mountain activities, Aigüestortes and the Carros de Foc (http://www.carrosdefoc.com/intro.htm)is a must.
Whithout having any information about what sort of trip you're after, it is hard to give much useful advice.
Posted by
Powell River, Canada
359 posts
In France: Ainhoa, Cambo-les-Bains, Pau, Espelette and Larresore. In Spain: Pamplona and north to the Baztan or Bidassoa Valley.
On the coast for some sun and sand: San Sebastian/Donostia and Irun in Spain; and Bayonne, St. Jean de Luz and Biarritz in France.
If you want to see the real Pays Basque you'll see it in these spots (especially the inland ones) and you may wish to check out "Mirabels Guides" for free downloads of travel guides in the part of the world you're contemplating.
Can't help you further east although I gather Andorra hasn't much going for it. I'm a bit biased as my trip in September includes all the spots I've mentioned (except Andorra); and they're all within a few hours of the coast, if that's important.