Running Collection by Julien Harté
A land rich in character – running in the Basque Country
15 routes
54:52
342km
18,060m
In France, its territory stretches from the Adour to the Pyrenees, from the Atlantic coast to the Bearn. It’s made up of three ancient provinces: Labourd, Basse-Navarre and Soule. However, its cultural identity goes beyond the border and extends further south into Spain. On the southern side, the region is made up of four other provinces which, together with those of France, form the entire Basque Country.
In this Collection, I present ideas for long trips that discover this exceptional region and its paths – wonderfully suited to trail running. Its characterful villages, its thousand-year-old, mysterious forests, its sheer and spectacular peaks and, finally, its emblematic summits.
All the routes are between 20 and 30 kilometres (12 and 19 mi) long and never exceed 2,000 metres (6,560 ft) of elevation gain. I also list a number of local races based on the ‘half-marathon’ format. Most have been adjusted to be accessible all year round, as some races use private or specially designed sections on race day, while the routes change regularly with others. I’ve listed all the routes from west to east, according to their accessibility from the Atlantic coast.
The mountains of the Basque Country are a great playground for any trail runner. Whether you are training or competing, you’ll find everything you need for great fun and a challenging time. Steep climbs, technical trails, rolling paths and, above all, beautiful scenery characterise the routes here.
When a vast swathe of the Pyrenees is under snow, the Basque Country has the advantage of being accessible almost all year round. This does not prevent the presence of snow on its highest peaks or particularly muddy paths in winter. However, it’s clear that the window of trail running opportunity is much greater than in the high mountains.
Bring quality trail shoes that can withstand the demanding and muddy trails. Take enough water and food, as you’ll find few places to refill on most of the routes. Finally, keep in mind that the Basque Country is known for sudden changes in the weather. Old timers will tell you that four seasons can pass in a single day. Therefore, equip yourself at least with a waterproof jacket and carry an additional warm layer for the most airy parts.
Almost all the stages start in the heart of villages. For the others, the starting points are easily accessible by car. Public transport serves certain villages, though the best way to access most of these runs is undoubtedly by car.
All you have to do is choose where to start your apprenticeship with the Basque Country...
Visibility:
Anyone
Activities
23.0km
03:07
670m
680m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
21.4km
03:35
1,120m
1,120m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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21.1km
02:54
830m
830m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
19.3km
03:57
1,480m
1,480m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
22.7km
03:48
1,330m
1,330m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
25.8km
03:44
980m
980m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
21.5km
03:19
1,160m
1,160m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22.8km
04:16
1,480m
1,480m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
24.4km
04:21
1,510m
1,490m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
19.9km
02:48
830m
830m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
22.1km
03:28
1,290m
1,290m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
23.3km
03:30
1,020m
1,020m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
24.4km
03:41
1,330m
1,330m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
21.8km
03:22
1,130m
1,150m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
28.5km
05:01
1,910m
1,930m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Collection Stats
Activities
15
Distance
342 km
Duration
54:52 h
Elevation
18,060 m
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