Goretti recently shared her recommendations with a young woman who was planning to visit one of these emblematic cider houses, and now her tips are available to everyone else planning to experience this Basque tradition. According to the expert, the first thing is to go for a comfortable, practical look, as cider houses tend to have an informal, relaxed atmosphere.

Comfortable, hard-wearing clothes

Goretti suggests that the ideal is to wear clothes you can move freely in, because although a visit to a sagardotegi is full of good food, drink and fun, the setting is usually rustic and may involve standing for long periods. What is more, a cider house is usually linked to farming and country culture, so it is important to choose clothes suited to a less formal space.

Suitable footwear

Footwear should also be a priority, as cider houses may have wooden floors or be somewhat slippery from spilt drink. Goretti recommends comfortable, closed shoes, such as boots or trainers, that offer stability and comfort throughout the day.

Go traditional, but with style

Despite the informality of the occasion, Goretti encourages people not to lose sight of elegance and personal style. For those who want to blend in with tradition without neglecting fashion, a popular option is to wear leather jackets or wool waistcoats, which add a distinctive, warm touch, perfect for the season’s chilly evenings.

Ready to enjoy the experience

With these tips, anyone can enjoy a day of cider in the Basque Country in the right clothes, without worrying about discomfort. Goretti stresses that the most important thing is to enjoy the culinary and cultural experience the sagardotegi offers, where the cider and typical dishes such as salt cod omelette, rib steak (txuleta) and cured cheese take centre stage.

So if you are about to visit a Basque cider house, follow these practical tips and get ready for an unforgettable experience.