In a year marked by a 127% surge in Australian visitors, the Basque Country prepares to further captivate this growing audience. March 2024 will herald the launch of a new Turkish Airlines route directly connecting Sydney to Bilbao, via Istanbul, thus streamlining access to the Basque region’s wonders.
Amidst this backdrop, the Basque Government’s tourism agency, Basquetour, is intensifying its Australian engagement. The cornerstone of this outreach is the “Basque Country Grand Tour,” an eight-part odyssey traversing the Basque Country’s multifaceted landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This curated adventure will be unveiled at the Entire Travel Group, Travel Showcase & Soirée this week.
Encompassing three major Australian cities, this initiative seeks to elevate the Basque Country’s status as a top-tier travel haven. A series of roadshows will connect with over 600 travel agents, showcasing the Basque Country’s cultural mosaic and premier experiences alongside leading European, American, and Asian destinations.
The “Basque Country Confidential” will also be introduced, featuring a bespoke compilation of over 80 exclusive tourism opportunities. This refined collection, which includes luxury accommodations, exquisite gastronomy, unique shopping experiences, cultural engagements, and bespoke transportation services, is designed to satisfy the sophisticated traveller in search of unique and intimate experiences.
Visitors are invited to embark on a journey spanning from the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao to the idyllic fishing hamlets dotting the Basque coastline, culminating in the historical allure of Vitoria-Gasteiz, the region’s storied capital.
Mr Daniel Solana, Director at Basquetour, asserts, “Our steadfast commitment to sustainable tourism is fundamental. Each collaborator in the ‘Basque Country Confidential’ endeavour is a proponent of eco-friendly practices, aligning with our pledge to deliver genuine, comfortable, and personalised travel experiences grounded in an ethical framework.”
“The Australian market’s burgeoning interest presents a realm of possibilities, underscored by last year’s 127% spike in visitor arrivals and a 132% increase in overnight stays. The enhanced air links are set to further this momentum. We eagerly anticipate forging stronger ties with travel trade professionals, inviting more Australians to explore the unique, serene, and spacious landscapes of our homeland,” added Mr Daniel Solana, Director at Basquetour.
Australian Market Insights:
- Australians currently make up 0.7% of total arrivals in the Basque Country.
- 2023 witnessed a record-breaking increase of 29,300 Australian arrivals and 68,000 overnight stays.
- The spring to autumn period, excluding August, is favoured among Australian travelers.
- Cultural festivities, coastal surfing adventures, and the urban dynamism of cities like San Sebastian and Bilbao remain high on the list of attractions.
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