Do you know the Basque Country like the back of your hand? Discover the 12 most beautiful villages in the French Basque Country!
When visiting the Basque Country, the best-known destinations immediately spring to mind: Biarritz, Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, La Rhune etc. Whether it’s for surfing, a vacation in the sun or simply for partying, you can quickly get the hang of the region.
But the three provinces of Labourd, Soule and Basse-Navarre are lands that have preserved their multicultural heritage. So much so, in fact, that traveling through the different communes of the territory can blur the Franco-Spanish distinction, just as the Grand Est does withGermany. To help you discover some of the Basque region’s most unusual places, we’ve put together a guide to make your journey a little easier. Here are the 12 most beautiful villages in the French Basque Country!
1. Sare
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Nestling at the foot of the Rhune and Axuria massifs, this Basque commune is one of the « prettiest villages in France« . The Rhune cog railway provides easy access to the village.
Sublime red half-timbered houses adorn the village’s narrow streets. The oratory, the Ortillopitz house and the old Labourg farm are fine examples of local architecture. For lovers of speleology, the prehistoric grotto will take you on a tour of its megalithic park and numerous rock cavities.
2. Ainhoa
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Close to Sare, Ainhoa invites travelers to enjoy the region’s classic picturesque setting.
This village is known for its aversion to urbanization in favor of a traditional Basque architectural style. Take a stroll through its red-and-white-fronted houses and stop off at one of the stalls to sample the local gastronomy.
3. La Bastide-Clairence
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Dating back to the 14th century, La Bastide-Clairence is one of the most beautiful villages in the French Basque Country for its royal origins. Indeed, the village was founded by King Louis 1st of Navarre.
With its red and green houses, arcaded central square and craft workshops, Bastide-Clairence is also famous for its Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption church. The church’s distinctive interior features three storeys of wood-panelled galleries.
4. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
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On the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, this village is a must on the circuit.
At first glance, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port also displays the classic Basque style. But it’s also worth a visit for its fortifications and medieval heritage. Take a walk along the citadel’s parapet walk and enjoy the splendid panorama of the town and the Nive de Béhérobie.
5. Espelette
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We can’t talk about Espelette without mentioning its emblematic chili pepper! Found on Basque toast or in Basque chicken and omelettes, this spice is the perfect seasoning for most of the region’s specialties.
But of course, the village itself is also worth a visit. With its typical Basque houses, its garlands and its pepper festival, Espelette is one of the most beautiful villages in the French Basque Country.
6. Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle
Photo credit: Wikipedia – Havang
In the province of Labourg, this small commune of around 6,200 inhabitants is just a stone’s throw from the sea. It’s the perfect destination for a quiet, seaside vacation.
Designed for a multitude of activities and leisure pursuits, we recommend strolling along its lakefront, visiting its church and the Pelota and Xistera Pilotari Ecomuseum.
7. Itxassou
Photo Credit: Flickr – Franck Barré
Itxassou is a village on the plain of the Urzumu, Mondarrain and Artzamendi mountains. An ideal spot for nature walks, the village takes you through the white waters of the Nive and lush green valleys.
But a visit to this beautiful village in the French Basque Country also means discovering its love of cherries. Its star fruit is the subject of a festival in June. « Errobiko festibala, another festival held in July, also celebrates the region’s culture.
8. Ustaritz
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If you want to try your hand at Basque pelota, you might as well do it in its capital!
The village of Ustaritz is said to have created this mythical sport. If only for the sake of having concrete proof, the commune celebrates this activity with fervor. With its renowned school, the Kapito-Harri, you can discover Basque pelota alongside professionals.
Château Lota is also well worth a visit. Listed as a « Monument Historique », it is the cultural center of the Basque Country.
9. Urrugne
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Considered a village, Urrugne actually covers more than 5,000 hectares. Located on the magnificent Basque coast and the Spanish border, this commune is home to a rich heritage.
For your cultural visits, take a trip to Urtubie castle, Soccori chapel or Saint-Vincent church.
10. Arcangues
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On the outskirts of Anglet, visit Arcangues and its beautiful, hilly village. From its picturesque central square, the village comes alive. Points of interest include the town hall and school with its « blue-arcangue » shutters, the pediment, the Achtal inn with its large slate tables and the Saint-Jean-Baptise de l’Uhabia church with its singular nave.
11. Bidart
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Between Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, this seaside resort will take you back to the Basque coastline.
This beautiful village in the French Basque Country is a popular tourist destination, offering a wide range of water sports and leisure activities such as surfing, horse-riding, pelota and golf.
But Bidart still retains its authenticity, with its Sauveur Atchoaren market square, the old Bassilou mill and the pelota court.
12. Ciboure
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Let’s end our tour in style with the picturesque commune of Ciboure. This small seaside resort on the outskirts of Saint-Jean-de-Luz attracts travellers with its old stone and timber-framed houses, its fishing port and its local produce such as ttoro.
Music fans can also visit Maurice Ravel‘s home. Indeed, Ciboure is the composer’s birthplace.
Away from the major destinations of the French Basque Country, you’ll still discover rare gems that immerse you in the region’s timeless traditions.
Map of hotels and accommodation – Biarritz,fr