1. La Rhune
Sacred summit, La Rhune (905m) is a legendary hike. It might not be the easiest, but as the local saying goes "if you make it to the top of the Rhune you'll make it up any Basque mountain". Make sure you're well-equipped before starting off from Ascain, Sare, Olhette or the Saint-Ignace pass. It will take 2 to 3 hours to get to the top, but the view of the ocean and the Pyrenees are worth every step.
You can also get to the top of the Rhune by rack-railway.
2. The coastal path
From beaches to creeks, cliffs to headlands, from Bidart to Saint-Sébastien, Talaia, the Basque coastal path, gives you 54km of waymarked, protected, accessible walking along with endless panoramic views of the coast and sea. Our favourite stretch: the rocky coastal path between Ciboure and Hendaye.
Important, please note that the Corniche is currently undergoing a diversion between Ciboure and Hendaye. The signposting leads you along paths and small country roads, for an equivalent distance.. More information from the Basque Country Tourist Office.
3. The Kakuetta Gorges
A preserved site, this canyon is called "little Amazonia" for its luxuriant and wild nature. The path, laid out and secured between high slopes, leads in 1 hour to a large waterfall and the cave of the lakes. For young and old adventurers!
Important, please note that the site is currently closed. More information from the Basque Country Tourist Office.
4. The Ursuya
The gentle and waymarked verdant slopes of the Ursuya are just the thing for family walks. Setting off from Hasparren, Urcuray, Mendionde or Macaye it will probably take you a good two hours to reach the top (678m) where you'll get to see the wild Pottok ponies and numerous birds of prey.
5. The Jaizkibel Crests
Too tired for spectacular views over the sea and the Bay of Hendaye? The Jaizkibel Crests (573m) are easily accessible from Pasaia Donibane. The bravest visitors will set off from the Guadalupe Oratory (Fontarrabie), where a short but steep climb leads to the summit.
6. The Ainhoa Chapel
From this village, listed among the most beautiful in France, discover the chapel of Notre-Dame-d’Aubépine. A 45-minute climb takes you to the site (389m), where you'll find a calvary cross, circular headstones and an open view all the way to the ocean. Walk it at your own pace or during the annual Whit Monday procession.
7. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
The way to explore this fortified town on the Santiago de Compostela route, and among the most beautiful villages in France, is on foot: from the UNESCO-listed Porte Saint-Jacques, make your way through the narrow streets with their historic buildings to the Citadel and admire the view of the Cize countryside, the Irouléguy vineyards and the mountains.
Useful tip: daily guided visits are organised all year round with extra evening visits in summer.
Information: +33(0)5 59 37 03 57
8. The historical centre of Bayonne
A protected area, Old Bayonne welcomes you to its narrow streets and along the banks of the Nive: the perfect opportunity to take in the half-timbered facades, the Sainte-Marie Cathedral and its cloister, both on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Useful tip: the Bayonne Tourist Office organises guided theme tours all year round.
Information: www.bayonne-tourisme.com
Freelance journalist, Emmanuelle Lapeyre has been a contributor to Sud Ouest newspaper and Sud Ouest Gourmand since 2015. This lover of the Basque Country never tires of discovering its landscapes and talents.
