Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, in Basque Country

Nestled at the foot of the Basque Mountains, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port captivates with its timeless charm and friendly atmosphere.

On Mondays, the heart of the village beats to the rhythm of the traditional market, while Thursdays showcase local flavors with the local producers' market.

Dominated by the citadel, the town is best explored on foot, particularly along the rampart walk, offering breathtaking panoramas. The Notre-Dame-du-Bout-du-Pont churchwatches over the river, the Bishops' Prison whispers its history, and Rue d'Espagne, with its artisan shops, invites you to stroll in an atmosphere full of authenticity.

The Domaine de Beterguibel is the perfect starting point for exploring the region. Your host knows the surrounding area inside out and will be able to recommend the ideal itinerary.

The must-see villages of the Basque Country

The Basque villages, proud of their traditions, reveal a vibrant and colorful heritage.

In Espelette, famous for its chili pepper, two workshops open their doors to the curious. Larressore perpetuates the art of makhila in his ancestral house-workshop. In Cambo-les-Bains, the sumptuous Villa Arnaga, former home of Edmond Rostand, blends art and poetry. Ustaritz immerses you in the soul of the local habitat at the Labourdine House Museum, while in Ossès, the Espadrille Museum reveals all the expertise of an emblem of the Basque Country.

The Basque Coast

Less than an hour's drive away, the Basque Coast reveals its treasures between land and ocean.

Bayonne enchants with the Bonnat Museum and the Basque Museum, reflections of a rich culture. In Biarritz, the beaches vibrate to the rhythm of waves and surfing, while the Maritime Museum delights young and old alike. Saint-Jean-de-Luz charms with its Place Louis XIV, the Maison de l'Infante, and its gentle family beaches.

Great walks

The Domaine de Beterguibel, nestled below the mythical Way of St. James, is the ideal starting point for exploring the natural wonders of the Basque Country.

A short walk away, the sources of the Nive murmur through the mountains, while Mount Urkulu offers breathtaking panoramas.

Further away, the majestic Iraty Forest and the spectacular Kakuetta Gorges reveal striking landscapes, featuring wild ridges, waterfalls, and secret valleys.

Activities for athletes

Adrenaline junkies will find what they're looking for in the Basque Country.

In Larrau, the Holzarte footbridge defies the void above the gorges. The Baïgura leisure center offers paragliding, mountain biking, and ridgetop hiking. The rivers invite you to enjoy whitewater sports, while the numerous and varied trails offer hikes for all levels, amidst magnificent landscapes and unspoiled nature.

Family must-sees

With the family, there's no shortage of activities to share unforgettable moments.

Between horseback riding, equestrian treks, and donkey rides, young and old alike can explore nature in a new way. River or freshwater fishing offers peace and quiet. In Souraïde, golf appeals to swing enthusiasts.

And above all, the Saint-Pée Lake leisure center promises swimming, water sports, and outdoor relaxation.

Basque festivals and events

Summer in the Basque Country is punctuated by colorful and emotional festivals.

The famous Bayonne Festival (date to be announced) attracts thousands of visitors to a unique festive atmosphere.

A few kilometers away, Pamplona bursts into flames from July 6th to 14th with its iconic bullfights.

Throughout the summer, villages and towns vibrate to the rhythm of Basque traditions: songs, dances, and conviviality are the order of the day.

Gastronomy and specialties

In the heart of the Basque Country, gastronomy is a true art of living.

In almost every restaurant, you can enjoy generous and traditional cuisine: veal axoa, squid, elvers, hake, tuna, eels, or even Basque chicken and ttoro. All accompanied by Espelette pepper, sheep's milk cheese with black cherry jam, Basque cake or mamia, not forgetting a glass of Irouléguy wine or a Patxaran as a digestif.

The good addresses

We know the region and can recommend the best places to eat according to your needs:

Le Refuge d’Orisson in Uhart-Cize
Le Relais de la Nive in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
La Ferme Gourmande in Ossès
Hôtel Le Central in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Les Sources de la Nive in Esterençuby
Chalet Pedro in Iraty
Arcé in Saint-Etienne-de-Baïgorry
Manexenea in Saint-Etienne-de-Baïgorry
Hôtel-restaurant du Chêne in Itxassou
Hôtel du Fronton in Itxassou
La Ferme d’Ostalapia in Ahetze – Saint-Jean-de-Luz
La Txalupa in Saint-Jean-de-Luz in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Le Trinquet Moderne in Bayonne

The Spanish border

Just a few kilometers from the Domaine de Beterguibel, the Spanish border opens up new discoveries.

In 30 minutes, you'll be in Navarre or the heart of the Spanish Basque Country, between typical markets, lively bodegas, tasty tapas, and sunny landscapes.

A getaway to Pamplona, a trip to San Sebastián, or a simple stroll through the border villages promise a complete change of scenery.