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Activities in the French Basque Country

Biarritz

  • Phare de Biarritz: Panoramic views of the ocean and cliffs
  • Rocher de la Vierge: Access via a footbridge, offering stunning coastal vistas
  • Musée de la Mer: Aquarium with seals and sharks, plus marine wildlife exhibitions
  • Grande Plage & Miramar/Marbella Beaches: Surfing, swimming, and seaside strolls
  • Côte des Basques: Iconic surf spot and perfect location to watch the sunset

Bayonne

  • Cathédrale Sainte-Marie: Gothic church with a cloister
  • Basque Museum & Bayonne History Museum: Explore local culture, traditions, and crafts
  • Old Town: Charming streets with timber-framed houses
  • Chocolateries: Taste artisanal chocolate – Bayonne is famous for it

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

  • Port and Pier: Stroll along and admire the fishing boats
  • Maison de l’Infante: Historical site linked to Louis XIV
  • Beach: Family-friendly and safe for swimming
  • Local Market: Fresh produce and Basque specialties

Espelette

  • Timber-framed houses with peppers: Traditional Basque decoration
  • Local products: Espelette chili, cheeses, and cured meats
  • Market: Artisan goods and tasting opportunities

Ainhoa

  • One of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” – recognized for its charm
  • Central square & Saint‑Martin Church: Traditional Basque architecture
  • Surrounding trails: Walks with scenic mountain views

Sare

  • Grotte de Sare: Guided tours of prehistoric caves
  • Petit Train de la Rhune: Scenic ride to the summit with panoramic views of the coast and mountains
  • Typical Basque Village: Timber-framed houses and traditional atmosphere

Nature & Sports Activities

Hiking:

  • La Rhune: Reachable on foot or by the little train, offering incredible panoramic views
  • Coastal trails: From Hendaye to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, perfect for walking
  • Inland mountains: Explore the Aspe Valley and Ossau Valley

Surfing:

  • Locations: Biarritz, Anglet, Guéthary, Hendaye
  • Surf schools for beginners and excellent spots for advanced surfers

Adventure Sports:

  • Paragliding: Over Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Bidarray
  • Rafting: On the Nive or Nivelle rivers
  • Mountain Biking: Trails in the Basque hills and mountains

Museums:

  • Basque Museum (Bayonne): Explore history and traditions
  • Musée de la Mer (Biarritz): Marine wildlife exhibits
  • Villa Arnaga (Cambo-les-Bains): Edmond Rostand’s house and gardens

Traditions:

  • Basque Pelota: Watch a match in a trinquet or fronton
  • Local Festivals: Fêtes de Bayonne (July), with Basque music and dances
  • Artisan Crafts: Espadrilles in Mauléon, ceramics in Hasparren

Local Products:

  • Ossau-Iraty sheep’s cheese
  • Bayonne ham
  • Espelette chili and Basque cake

Markets:

  • Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Espelette
  • Perfect for tasting artisan products and discovering Basque cuisine

Why not set off on an adventure
from Les Pins Bleus***

Labenne Océan

The Landes

Spanish Basque Country