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BASKADVISOR

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Le Rocher de la Vierge
Biarritz

The Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin's Rock) in Biarritz is inextricably linked to the image of Biarritz. This rock owes its name to the statue of the Virgin Mary that was placed on its summit in 1865. Legend has it that Biarritz fishermen, whalers at the time, were caught in a terrible storm. A divine light guided them back to port. In gratitude, the survivors erected a statue of the Virgin Mary on this rock. Napoleon III decided to pierce through the rock and connect it to the coast with a footbridge. The first wooden bridge could not withstand the whims of the ocean. In 1887, Gustave Eiffel was commissioned to build the metal structure. The walk is very pleasant, offering breathtaking views of the Basque Coast.

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La Corniche Basque
St Jean de Luz

The Basque Corniche is a unique natural site.

Approximately ten kilometers long, it stretches from Ciboure to Hendaye, with a large section within the commune of Urrugne. From its high flysch cliffs, you can glimpse the famous Belharra wave, a giant wave that only professionals are capable of surfing.

You will also have the opportunity to enjoy magnificent ocean panoramas and discover a rich and unique flora and fauna.

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La Terasse
Guéthary

While whales may have disappeared from view, the "terrace" remains a must-see and a prime spot for contemplating the ocean.

In the shade of the tamarisk trees, you can watch surfers riding the famous Parlementia wave, admire the village's natural beaches, and enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Atlantic coast stretching from Biarritz to Hondarribia, the border town of the Spanish Basque Country.

The terrace was built in 1912 in the area known as "Place de la Croix" (Cross Square). The Costa Aldia cross became the sailors' cross in 1881, paying tribute to their courage.

An observation table made of enameled lava was created in 1998, based on drawings by the children of the local primary school.

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La Rhune
 

La Rhune is a 905-meter-high peak in the Pyrenees mountain range in the Basque Country. You can reach it via the Rhune Train, an authentic, nearly century-old cog railway that takes you to the summit. But if the train is full, we have a great tip for still enjoying the view: a hiking trail to climb this sacred mountain on foot! Once you reach the top, the viewpoint offers a 360° panorama of all the treasures of the Basque Country. And if you're lucky, you might even spot wild Pottok ponies during your ascent. This breed is typical of the region.

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Baie de Socoa
Socoa
 

Nestled in the bay between Ciboure and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Socoa is a district unique in that it straddles the municipalities of Ciboure and Urrugne. Characterized by the crenellated tower of its fort, you can discover its renowned fishing port. Socoa has been a small fishing port since the Middle Ages, a time when it sheltered the boats used for whaling.

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Le Bastan
Bidarray
 

A lesser-known spot for visitors, but one that rivals the other iconic locations we've just recommended. It's the Bastan, a 12-kilometer stream that flows through the village of Bidarray. It originates in Spain and flows from southwest to northeast before joining the Nive River. Exploring the Bastan of Bidarray, you'll discover pleasant spots for swimming in the summer, especially on hot days. This secluded waterfront offers a breath of fresh air and shady corners.

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Villa Arnaga
Cambo-Les-Bains
 

Immerse yourself in the story of the renowned Edmond Rostand, author of the play "Cyrano de Bergerac." A historical monument located south of Bayonne, his home was built in a verdant setting: a vast villa inspired by Basque farmhouses and surrounded by magnificent French and English gardens spanning over 15 hectares. Inside, you can admire numerous works of art: drawings, paintings, photographs, and collectibles.

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Les Grottes d'Isturitz
St-Martin-d'Arberou
 

A true archaeological and geological treasure, the Isturitz and Oxocelhaya caves will amaze history and speleology enthusiasts!

Explore these spectacular prehistoric remains and discover engravings, limestone concretions, stalagmites and stalactites, as well as clay plaques and constructions dating back to the Paleolithic era: a journey back to prehistoric times! A guided tour will allow you to learn more about these jewels of the Basque Country.

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Les Gorges de Kakuetta
Sainte-Engrace
 

A leisurely stroll through gorges equipped with walkways that allow you to get up close to the rivers and the rock formations.

This natural area is unique in the Basque Country: lush, verdant vegetation abounds. Combined with the coolness of the canyon and the river, the entire landscape takes on an Amazonian feel. A complete change of scenery guaranteed!

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La Passerelle D'Holzarte
Larrau
 

A unique experience to share with family or friends in the Basque province of Soule. Suspended 150 meters high, the Holzarte footbridge offers thrill-seekers a breathtaking, life-sized spectacle!

Starting from the Logibar inn, 2 km before the village of Larrau, a hike through the undergrowth leads you to the foot of the Holzarte footbridge. The walk begins along the Olhadoko Erreka river. Then, you'll traverse vertiginous ravines on a marked trail in Logibar, in Haute-Soule, the most secluded province of the Basque Country.

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Château d'Abbadia
Hendaye
 

This landmark overlooks the Basque Corniche and the steep cliffs of Hendaye.

This neo-Gothic building is listed as a historical monument and a "Maison des Illustres" (House of the Illustrious). It owes its name to its owner, Antoine Abbadie, a scholar, ethnologist, astronomer, traveler, and champion of Basque culture!

Stroll through his richly decorated castle in the heart of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. This sumptuous residence and its vast park offer a unique architectural experience and breathtaking panoramic views of the Basque coast.

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Les 3 Vallées Pyrénéennes
 

Near the Basque Country, discover the romantic landscapes of three sublime valleys: Aspe, Ossau, and Barétous. Make a stop in Béarn, still in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department (64), as these protected natural areas are well worth a visit!

You'll be dazzled by this remarkable heritage of meadows, lakes, cirques, and gorges. Take advantage of the opportunity to go hiking or horseback riding, trekking, mountain biking, or canyoning during the summer season. These valleys are ideal for enjoying sports activities and exploring the region.

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Cathédrale de Bayonne
Bayonne
 

Located at the gateway to the Basque Country, at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers, the ancient fortified city of Bayonne, designated a "City of Art and History®", offers visitors its architectural treasures: Vauban fortifications, the old castle, historic pedestrian districts, and sacred gems such as its Cathedral and Cloister. An emblem of the city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998 as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela, the Cathedral of Saint Mary is instantly recognizable by its two Gothic towers topped with slender spires reaching into the Bayonne sky. Majestic, like a queen seated on her throne overlooking the entire old town. Imposing, like a medieval sentinel with the appearance of a fortress. Mysterious, with its unique features and legends. Head to old Bayonne to unravel the mysteries of this grand lady during a visit rich in history and discoveries.

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Village Ainhoa
Ainhoa
 

Ainhoa ​​is one of the most traditional villages in the Basque Country. You will be charmed by its whitewashed houses, known as "labourdines," with their striking red half-timbering, a color called "Basque red." But what also leaves a lasting impression on visitors is the beauty of its religious heritage, particularly its cemeteries, with their discoidal stelae that recall ancient customs. Even today, they are steeped in mystery and legend.

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La Villa Belza
Biarritz
 

The story of Villa Belza begins in 1825, when farmer Dominique Daguerre acquired a rugged and wild plot of land known as "the nightingale's field." After several changes of ownership, in 1882, Ange Dufresnay, managing director of the Le Phénix insurance company, decided to build a residence for his wife. The project was entrusted to the architect Alphonse Bertrand, known for his work on the Bellevue Casino and the Grammont Castle in Biarritz. Perched on its rocky promontory, the villa is distinguished by its bold architecture, blending a neo-medieval keep with a pepperpot turret. Named "Belza," which means "black" in Basque, it quickly became the subject of legends, particularly of witchcraft and ghosts, further enhancing its mystical aura.

Points of interest

Basque Country

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