Basque Pelota: Biarritz, France, and the Basque Country
Speaking of the Olympics, let’s take a closer look at Basque Pelota, which was an official sport at the 1990 Paris Olympics, for the first and last time. Known as the world’s fastest sport, Basque Pelota involves players throwing a ball against the wall using a banana-shaped basket! In France, the gorgeous seaside town of Biarritz is where visitors can experience this sport, either by attending the Summer League or by taking classes from local guides. Biarritz is also a great destination for sunbathing, surfing, and delicious cuisine, and is a perfect hub from which to explore the secretive but beautiful Basque Country and its heritage of traditional villages, legends, dances and of course, its well-known gastronomy.
For an alternative but equally memorable experience look for speedy Basque Pelota games in the nearby town of San Sebastian, Spain, famous for its white-sand beaches and under an hour drive away from Biarritz!
Regata Storica: Venice, Italy
Venice's historic boat race, Regata Storica, dates to the 13th century, and when Venice became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1886, it became a bastion of Venetian culture. Today, Regata Storica is both a lively boat parade and an exciting race! On the first Sunday of September, tourists, locals, and boating enthusiasts fill Venice’s bridges and roadsides, ready to cheer for their favourites and see the traditional parade of rowers dressed in 16th century costume. Witness the lively gondolini regata, with its lighter, faster boats, then explore the iconic Byzantine Basilica di San Marco, before stepping away from the busy streets to enjoy a glass of ombra (wine) in a traditional bacaro (tavern) with cicchetti (finger food snacks) for an authentic experience.
Heritage Regattas: Mauritius
Another incredible sailing event is The Mahébourg Regatta held in Pointes de Régates, Mahebourg, a place which most likely takes its name from the organisation of these much-loved regattas themselves. This regatta is one of the best-known heritage regattas in Mauritius, drawing huge crowds of locals and visitors alike, usually held between September – March.
Originating in the 19th century – with the establishment of the Mahébourg Yacht Club in 1874 – this event blends tradition and skill as sailors race each other on the stunning waters in the bay in traditional ‘pirogues’ (sail boats) each adorned with colourful sails.
Enjoy the spectacle from the waterfront with some traditional Mauritian cuisine for a truly immersive experience (try Dholl puri, a delicious thin flatbread filled with dal for the unofficial national dish!)
The Highland Games: Scotland, UK
As one of Scotland’s oldest traditions, the Highland Games are a must visit for any traveller! Witness unique contests like the Caber Toss, where participants toss a 5-metre log, the famous Hill Race, the tug of war, hammer throw, and even Highland dancing, and of course, a healthy dose of Scottish pride. Many of the Games occur between July – September across the length and breadth of Scotland, but The Braemar Gathering in September near Aberdeen is the largest and most prestigious of Highland Games, where contests of strength are viewed by the Royal Family!
Did you know that after watching the Highland Games the founder of the modern Olympics, Baron de Coubertin, was so impressed that he introduced the hammer throw, shotput and tug of war into the 1889 Paris Exhibition?