A human adventure
In the mountain air of the Pyrenees, a story of passion, family and dedication takes shape. This is the story of Respyrénées, an adventure shaped by my experiences and what I have learnt.
After spending around ten years exploring the trails of Corsica for a trekking agency, and then managing the Hôtel La Grande Cordée in Ax-les-Thermes, it was time for some self-reflection. Those years, which taught me so much both personally and professionally, also allowed me to learn from my mistakes and failures.
A new chapter is beginning, guided by four key principles:
A FAMILY PROJECT
This project is called “Maison Iputxainia”; it is the guest house that my parents, my brother and I renovated and then opened in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, and which now hosts our best-selling tour : “Terroirs of the Basque Country”. A tour where the authenticity of the encounters rivals the splendour of the landscapes.
A USER-FRIENDLY PROJECT
Doing a serious job without taking ourselves too seriously!
Quality and a warm, friendly atmosphere. We try to offer the highest-quality tour possible, whilst maintaining a family atmosphere and our close-knit, friendly team spirit.
AN ECO-CONSCIOUS PROJECT
Our contribution is to organise trips EXCLUSIVELY to the Basque Country and the Pyrenees, so as to avoid air travel. We encourage our hikers to travel by train and to support more responsible local tourism!
A LOCAL PROJECT
Our name: RESPYRÉNÉES
That says it all: we won’t be leaving the area where we live, which we’ve known since we were young, which we love, and whose riches we want to share.
Here is Respyrénées ! A small, close-knit team that embodies a passion for nature and the Pyrenees, unwavering family and friendship ties, authenticity, expertise and a deep attachment to our region, the Basque Country.
Welcome to our home, welcome to the Pyrenees! Ongi etorri!
Mathieu, fonder de Respyrénées
