guide
A selection of the most beautiful villages of the Basque Country: Espelette and its peppers, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port on the road to Compostela, Bidart with its seaside leisure, Saint-Pé-sur-Nivelle, Ustaritz as the birthplace of Basque pelota, Ainhoa and its typical style, Sare accessible by the Rhune rack railway, and Urrugne near the Spanish border. Plenty to plan a complete itinerary while staying at a campsite in the region.
Would you like to explore the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country? Take a look at these suggestions to help you discover this region. If you’re wondering what type of accommodation to choose, there are several cheap campsites in the area.
It’s hard to pass through Espelette without tasting its famous chilli pepper. There’s even a festival entirely dedicated to it. If you stop at a restaurant in this village, you’ll almost certainly be offered this seasoning with a Basque-style tartine or a Basque omelette. This culinary ritual is an absolute must-try!
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is located on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Beyond its spiritual symbolism, this village stands out for its significant medieval heritage. To enjoy an impressive view over the Nive de Béhérobie, venture along the citadel’s ramparts walk, at the top of Mendiguren hill.
Located between Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Biarritz, Bidart is a seaside resort that will introduce you to the leisure activities of the Basque coast. Water sports, golf, horse riding or Basque pelota, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Yet despite significant tourist numbers, Bidart has managed to preserve its authentic character. Don’t miss its weekly “4 seasons” market held at Place Sauveur Atchoarena.
If you’re looking for a waterside getaway, this is the destination for you. This commune, located in the province of Labourd, has fewer than 3,000 inhabitants. It’s characterised by a soothing, peaceful atmosphere. Among the sites to visit, don’t miss the Écomusée de la Pelote et du Xistera Pilotari.
This village is said to be the birthplace of the famous regional sport: Basque pelota. So if you’re interested in the different disciplines of this game, head to the Kapito-Harri school. At this nationally renowned establishment, you can learn the basics of Basque pelota alongside experienced and professional players. During your stay, don’t forget to visit Château Lota, which is listed as a “Historic Monument”.
Far from mass urbanisation, Ainhoa has managed to preserve its typical Basque style. During your visit, you’ll wander through a setting marked by buildings with red-and-white façades. If you’d like to try your hand at Basque cuisine, don’t hesitate to explore the village’s many shops.
This village can be reached via the Rhune rack railway. A visit to Sare will include must-see sites such as the old Labourd farmhouse and the Ortillopitz house. If you’re interested in speleology, you can explore its prehistoric cave. You’ll discover an impressive megalithic park as well as numerous rocky cavities.
Although referred to as a village, Urrugne covers an area of 5,000 hectares. Located on the border with Spain, it’s a commune that offers you a very extensive natural and cultural heritage. Among the visits worth making, head to the Château d’Urtubie, built in the 14th century. You can also visit the Saint-Vincent church and the Soccori chapel.
Several cheap campsites in the Basque Country offer great deals to help you explore the region’s iconic villages.
The famous Espelette pepper, served in the village's restaurants with a Basque-style bread or omelette. It even has its own festival dedicated to it.
Sare is accessible via the Rhune rack railway. The village is also home to a prehistoric cave and a megalithic park.
Ustaritz, where the Kapito-Harri school lets you get a taste of this regional sport alongside experienced players.
Located on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, this medieval village offers a view over the Nive de Béhérobie from the citadel's walkway.
