Ep 9. The French Basque Country
- May 1, 2020
- 25 min
In season 3 episode 9 of Bare Feet With Mickela Mallozzi, titled "The French Basque Country," Mickela travels to the southwestern region of France to explore the unique culture and traditions of the Basque people.
Mickela begins her journey in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a charming seaside town that serves as the gateway to the French Basque Country. Here, she meets local guide Séverine Lannefranque, who teaches her about the history of the Basque people and their distinct language and customs.
Next, Mickela heads to the town of Espelette, famous for its spicy red peppers. She participates in a pepper harvest and learns about the role these peppers play in Basque cuisine. She also visits the home of a traditional Basque family, where she is treated to a meal of pintxos, small bite-sized snacks that are a staple of Basque cuisine.
Mickela then heads to the town of Bastide Clairence, a picturesque village known for its artisan shops and quaint architecture. Here, she participates in a traditional Basque dance called the mutxiko, which is performed by both men and women and involves intricate footwork and quick movement.
Finally, Mickela concludes her journey in the town of Biarritz, a popular tourist destination on the Basque coast. Here, she tries her hand at surfing, a popular activity in the area, and learns about the connection between Basque culture and the ocean.
Throughout her travels, Mickela is struck by the warm hospitality of the Basque people and their dedication to preserving their unique heritage. The episode provides a fascinating glimpse into a region of France that is often overlooked by tourists, but offers a wealth of culture, history, and natural beauty.