French Basque Country

This beautiful fishing port retains an authentic and welcoming atmosphere. Famous for being the site of the wedding between Louis XIV and Maria Theresa, its old town retains its traditional charm. The covered market, confectioners and restaurants by the harbour are ideal for sampling the local cuisine. Its quiet beaches and promenade offer the perfect seaside retreat. Saint-Jean-de-Luz elegantly blends history, flavour and coastal life.

Known for its white façades decorated with strings of red peppers, Espelette is synonymous with flavour and tradition. Its weekly market is a feast of colours and aromas where local products such as sausages, honey and homemade liqueurs are sold. Strolling through its streets is like immersing yourself in the heart of the Basque interior. Its cuisine, intense and authentic, reflects the soul of the village. It is a must-see for lovers of gastronomy with character.

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, Ainhoa stands out for its perfectly preserved Basque architecture. The rows of houses with red shutters, flowers on the balconies and the church with its traditional cemetery create a serene and harmonious image. It is the ideal place to unwind, stroll around at a leisurely pace and enjoy the rural silence. It is also close to numerous hiking trails. A haven of peace among the mountains

Sare is a charming mountain village surrounded by green hills and fresh air. From here, the historic La Rhune train departs, a wooden rack railway that slowly climbs to the top of this legendary mountain. At the top, the views stretch from the Pyrenees to the Atlantic coast, crossing the natural border between France and Spain. The journey is an experience for all the senses. Ideal for families, hikers and nature lovers.

Hendaye offers a fine sandy beach ideal for walking, swimming or water sports. At the top of the cliffs stands Abbadia Castle, an architectural gem in the neo-Gothic style with oriental influences. It was the home of the explorer and astronomer Antoine d’Abbadie. The visit combines culture, science and landscape in a unique setting. Nearby, coastal paths allow you to explore the Basque Corniche with spectacular sea views.

Bayonne is a city with character, where history can be felt in every corner. Its old town, crossed by the Nive and Adour rivers, is full of life: local shops, traditional chocolate shops and lively terraces. It is famous for its cured ham, its festive culture and its French art of living. It also has museums, fortresses and an impressive Gothic cathedral. An essential stop for those seeking tradition and urban dynamism.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port es el punto de partida del Camino de Santiago francés. Este pintoresco pueblo amurallado, rodeado de montañas, recibe cada día a peregrinos de todo el mundo. Sus calles empedradas, la iglesia de Notre-Dame y la Puerta de Santiago ofrecen un ambiente cargado de historia y espiritualidad. Además, sus cafés, albergues y tiendas están adaptados a los viajeros. Un lugar que combina emoción, paisaje y hospitalidad.

Cuisine in the French Basque Country is one of its great treasures. From family bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, the region offers gastronomy based on top-quality products. Espelette peppers, sheep`s milk cheeses, Atlantic fish, and Irouléguy wines become creative dishes bursting with flavour. Dining here is a cultural and sensory experience, each meal becomes a lasting memory.

These villages, nestled between sea and mountains, preserve Basque essence in its purest form. Quiet streets, squares with pelota courts, local markets, and traditional festivities bring them to life. Ascain and Ciboure retain traditional farmhouses and harbour views. Urrugne is ideal as a base for exploring nearby hills. All offer hospitality, local flavour, and a relaxed pace that invites lingering.