HOTEL DE LA RHUNE: Adventure in Ascain's Basque Country

This cross-border loop is a great opportunity to ride all the way around the Rhune, the emblematic peak of the Basque coast, and to visit the three villages with their traditional architecture, Ascain, Bera and Sare, en route. There are three small passes on the programme, but nothing frightening as they are very easy (very good surface on the three climbs), never with big gradients. Ideal for having fun turning your legs on the climb.

We start in the heart of the village of Ascain, between the pediment and the discoidal steles, in the direction of the first hills that support the Rhune massif. The paths are always easy and run along the back of the open, panoramic ridges, giving you the chance to see so many typically Basque landscapes: villages and hamlets with white walls against a backdrop of green meadows, sheepfolds made of the red stones of the Rhune, and a deep blue Atlantic horizon. As soon as you reach the first dome of Bizkarzun, you'll be amazed at the panoramic view on a clear day. The bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the fort of Socoa seem to be within reach, as well as the antenna of the Rhune and the Jaizkibel. Leave this summit without regret, as the panorama will never leave you throughout the loop and will even be enriched with heritage discoveries.

Starting from Ascain, this loop around Mount Bizkarzun will delight mountain bikers looking for a quick and fun ride. On the way up, it takes the Arraio valley and its ascending path through the stones, and on the way down, the discreet Uzkain valley, which ends with a monotrace that is both chaotic and playful. In both cases, expect some technical crossings in boulder areas, which will call upon the fundamentals of balance and motor skills. Something to delight experienced riders, and disturb experts in training! Between the two, with a modest effort, especially if the electric assistance accompanies you, there is a pleasant panoramic transition to the heights of Mount Suhalmendi. The view is complete, from the bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz to the peaks of Mondarrain, and it's a good opportunity to point out the places where you will be riding next

Whether you are a regular or occasional hiker, the hike to the top of the Rhune is a must, as this summit is so omnipresent in the Labourdin landscape. A real challenge for some, a breath of fresh air for others, the Rhune is a magnet that attracts walkers and trailers from all sides. The steep and rocky paths require suitable equipment, so sandals can be left in the beach bag and used on the way back from the walk. If the sky is clear, the panorama offered by this summit with its foundations in the ocean is vast, from the Landes beaches to the first Pyrenean summits.

Family walk in a privileged environment to the Suhalmendi Pass (one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Basque Coast) to discover the Basque Pie Noir pig of the Basque Country, which leads to the outskirts of four pig pens. A route with 10 playful interpretation panels invites you to discover the secrets of the pig. A 2-hour ride from the Rhune train.

Walking in the Intzola valley is the perfect family outing, and can even be considered on summer afternoons, as the path is often shaded and benefits from the coolness of the stream. An ancient Roman road, a discreet smuggling route, but also an escape route for refugees during the Spanish Civil War, or a way of salvation for men and women fleeing the German repression of the Second World War, this path of Intzola, full of history, is today a recreational walk where you can enjoy the shade, waterfalls and dragonflies. Only the return by the plateau of Aire Leku requires some climbing efforts, finding the sun again on clear ground. But, approached at the end of the day, it will reserve beautiful lights on the Rhune and the Atlantic coast, from Hendaye to Biarritz.

The hike on the hill of Sainte-Barbe, is first of all an incomparable point of view on the valley of the Nivelle and the Basque coast. From the Sainte-Barbe cross to the Sainte-Barbe point, as you can easily recognize the bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the Socoa fort, the view of the coastline stretching to Anglet. On the mountain side, Jaizkibel, peñas de Haya, la Rhune, Atxuria, Alcurrunz, Artzamendi, Mondarrain, Baigura... The tour of the horizon is complete. With your eyes conquered and your camera saturated, you will then go to meet the wild valley of the Uzkain river, without road access between Ascain and Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle. A haven of peace where you can enjoy the freshness of the stream, the songs of birds under the foliage, and observe oaks and plane trees with enigmatic shapes, the trognes.

From Sare, one of the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country, at the crossroads of the GR10 and the Pyrenees traverse, set off to discover the Labourd region. In a beautiful landscape with views of the Atlantic Ocean, let yourself be carried up to the Pinodieta pass and its view of the first peaks of the Basque Country.

After having taken the "galzada" of Sare (an ancient paved road), from oratory to oratory, you will discover landscapes as surprising as varied. You will be enchanted by the plantations of plane trees and remarkable pollarded oaks before discovering the village of Ainhoa, another marvel on the route and classified as one of the "most beautiful villages of France". Easy and well-marked itinerary.

A bike ride in the country of Xareta sounds tempting, right? A small country, a valley, in short, shared by four localities, two French ones (Sare and Ainhoa), and two Spanish (Zuagarramurdi and Urdax). There are stories about caves occupied since the dawn of time, others about witches performing rituals, clandestine parties happening, and even smugglers running in the mountains. Here, the border between France and Spain only exists on maps, because geography made it so that we consider ourselves neighbours of villages, we even exchange goods and speak the same language. Even today, we cross each other on the many cross-border roads and paths without knowing if we are in France or Spain. We are in the country of Xareta, that’s it.

Based at the foot of the La Rhune massif, the Mendi Lagunak syndicate and its six enthusiasts will take you on a tour of the Basque mountains All year round, we offer outdoor activities for all tastes. Half a day, full day or over several days, with family, friends or works council, our guides adapt to all publics and their desires. We offer theme walks and hikes as well as naturalistic and historical discoveries. You can also opt for the relaxing version with the yoga walks or the more sporty trail version. A discovery of the natural and authentic Basque Country in a friendly atmosphere.

Apartment for 6 persons with mountain view, located in the heart of the village of Ascain, 100 meters from all shops, 10 minutes walk from the bus stop to Sare or Saint-Jean-de-Luz and then 15 minutes from the stop in the direction of Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle. You are also very close to some hiking trails. This furnished apartment has 2 bedrooms, with 2 beds 140 in one and 1 bed 140 in the other. There is a garden then possibility of renting sheets and renting on weekends in low season.

Apartment for 5 people with mountain view and located in the heart of the village of Ascain, 100 meters from all shops, 10 minutes walk from the bus stop towards Sare or Saint-Jean-de-Luz and 15 minutes from the bus stop towards Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle. You are very close to some hiking trails. This apartment has 2 bedrooms, the 1st with 1 bed 140 and the 2nd with 1 bed 90 and bed 140.you can also benefit from a garden equipped with a table to enjoy even during meals if you wish. There is the possibility of renting sheets and also to rent the weekend in low season.

Apartment T3 entirely renovated, located on the 1st floor of a villa in the heart of the village of Ascain, with mountain views, beaches 6km away, and shops nearby. This apartment of 70m² for 4 persons (with independent outside entrance) includes: 2 independent bedrooms 1 with a bed of 140 and the other one with 2 beds of 90, equipped American kitchen, living room, living room, bathroom, independent WC, laundry room with washing machine, balcony and a private parking space.

Comfortable apartment of 65m² on the ground floor, in a detached villa, independent entrance with private parking and garden. At 300m from the village of Ascain, close to shops and all medical services. Garden furniture and covered terrace with table, chairs and 2 armchairs. Spacious fully equipped kitchen with washing machine, dishwasher, TV. One bedroom with 1 double bed and 1 bedroom with 2 single beds. Possible activities in the sea, mountains and river. 6km from the beaches of St-Jean-de-Luz. The Rhune on foot from the village or with the Train de la Rhune (cogwheel train) at 3kms. Spanish border Col d'Ibardin at 6kms.wifi,.animals not allowed.

Charming, comfortable 4-person apartment in a renovated farmhouse, 800 m from the village center, within walking distance. Ideal for hikers. This furnished apartment has 2 bedrooms, one with a double bed (140cm) and the other with 2 single beds (90cm). The apartment is fully equipped and has Wifi access. You can relax outside in any weather, as the terrace is sheltered.

Hello and welcome to our home! Pascal and I got the "Euskadi" virus a few years ago. We welcome you in our 4 comfortable and well decorated guest rooms. Come and relax in the peace and quiet of our swimming pool, which offers a magnificent view of the Rhune. Sweet and savoury breakfast on the terrace when the weather is fine. See you soon!

22m² studio flat in house on single level on ground floor, peaceful setting, 900m from shops, 2km from horseriding club, 2km from white-water activities, 4km from Chantaco golf course and tennis courts, 5km from La Rhune mountain cog train, town centre and beaches, 10km from Spain. Sitting room with double bed, open plan kitchenette, bathroom with WC. TV, washing machine, terrace with garden furniture, barbecue, loungers, private parking space.

2-room flat on single level on ground floor of house, 48/50m², peaceful setting, 900m from shops, 2km from horseriding club, 2km from white-water activities, 4km from Chantaco golf course and tennis courts, 5km from La Rhune mountain cog train, town centre and beaches, 10km from Spain. Sitting/living room with double sofabed, open plan kitchen + dishwasher, 1 room with double bed, bathroom with WC. TV, washing machine, mobile phone upon request, terrace with garden furniture, barbecue, loungers, private parking space.

Sandrine and Jérôme invite you to discover their new fitness and coaching center in the Larre Lore artisanal zone in Ascain: yoga, zumba, step, box, cross training, body balance, pilates... Enjoy group classes accessible to all. Before subscribing, you can take advantage of a trial session!

This playground is located a stone's throw from the centre of the village, close to the Roman Bridge of Ascain. It has several parks for children in a closed and secure area. It is located in a wooded area close to several footpaths. You will also find a petanque ground and several picnic tables.

Listed as a historic monument, this forty-meter-long north-south bridge probably dates from the late 15th or early 17th century. During the Middle Ages, wooden bridges and fords were gradually replaced by stone bridges. Until 1863, when the departmental road linking Saint-Jean-de-Luz to Cambo and beyond was built, this was the only way to cross the Ur-Ertsi (the name given to the Nivelle at this point) and reach the village. After the floods of 1983, which partially destroyed it, the bridge was rebuilt identically.

The library is located behind the town hall in the centre of the village of Ascain On the spot you will be welcomed by Yago. You will find a wide variety of books for young and old. From now on you also have the possibility to borrow DVDs from the library of Ascain, at the rate of one DVD per card. Find the other libraries in the area on the site "Bibliothèques de la Rhune".

Mythical mountain of the Basque Country, with a peak at 905m above sea level dominating as far as the eye can see the French and Spanish coasts; offering a very beautiful panorama in clear weather. Ascent possible thanks to the rack railway, from the Saint Ignace pass, or on foot from the villages of Sare, Ascain or Urrugne (between 2h, 2h30 of ascent approximately with 700m of difference in height).

This playground and picnic area is located three kilometers from the center of the village, on the road to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, at the entrance of the ZA Larre Lore. It is located in a quiet and wooded area.

This playground is located three kilometres from the centre of the village, on the road to Dorrea, close to the road to Ciboure. It has a children's park with swings and several games for the little ones. It is situated in a quiet place with trees. There is also a basketball court and a picnic area.

Just 10 km from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, this authentic vintage cogwheel train dating from 1924 takes you to the mythical summit of the Basque Country, at an altitude of 905 m. The train is equipped with an electric motor. From here, you can see the French and Spanish coasts and the Pyrenees as far as the eye can see. The ascent takes 35 minutes, with the train travelling at 9km/h. At the top, for 1 hour 20 minutes, discover the Pottok, robust little Basque ponies living in total freedom, Manech ewes and griffon vultures, the emblematic birds of prey of the Pyrenean range. Reservations strongly recommended.

The memorial is located in Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle, at the intersection of Route Nationale 918 and the old Saint-Jean-de-Luz road. The memorial was inaugurated on May 27, 2023. It is a project of the Anai Artea association, in collaboration with Udalbiltza, the association of mayors of the Basque Country. It recounts the 22 most important events over the past 40,000 years, including the Roman occupation over 5 centuries, the wars of 14-18 and 39-45, the Spanish Civil War of 36-39, etc...

On the heights of Saint Pée sur Nivelle, with a panoramic view, the Etxekoak sheepfold, for rent for various occasions: weddings, baptisms, birthdays and other occasions

Authentic Basque house, built under the Ancien Régime in 1660 at the centre of the estate that spreads over several hectares. In this protected setting, discover the Labourdine architecture of the Etxe or house, and the original furniture and life that revolved around this Basque family unit. The estate itself relates the self-sufficient life of the stately home with its vines, apple orchards and farming of yesteryear as well as traditional animal rearing from this epoch. Themes such as myths and legends, sacred space of life and death, fire, agricultural and rural activities and the way of life in the 17th century are approached in order to uncover certain secrets of those times. A visit that is worth the detour.

Ideal location, opposite the market in a typical setting, in the dining room or on the terrace, come and spend a good time with friends or family for a coffee, aperitif or meal. Children can play safely on the pedestrianized street. Traditional cuisine, pintxos, burgers, salads. Beer bar, Gastronomic brasserie, Café, Fast food, Wine bar.

Franck and all his team welcome you in this restaurant with an original setting; the chef in the heart of the whole, officiating in front of you. A real conviviality around this open kitchen. Franck, the chef, sublimates the Basque products with dishes combining tradition and freshness. During the summer season, its shaded interior garden will seduce you, for a lunch, a dinner and even in the afternoon for a snacking, a pancake, a waffle, an ice cream or any drinks. Royal Couscous every Saturday.

New address, close to the ocean, combining tradition and conviviality. We welcome you all year round with a simple, local menu featuring our specialties and local produce. Flexible establishment with outdoor and indoor terraces. The à la carte menu features 95% fresh fish from the St-Jean-de-Luz/Ciboure harbor fish auction. A la plancha cooking. Home-made desserts.

In the heart of Ascain since 1837, the Larralde restaurant combines both tradition and modernity in its large, completely renovated dining room. Gilles is very fond of game, salmis de palombes, sauces, duck in orange sauce, frog legs and lemon meringue pie. These dishes can be tasted on sunny days under the patio or on the terrace with a view on the Rhune.

Restaurant located in the heart of the village of Ascain. We offer a cuisine between land and sea, local and fresh products. A large and luminous room open on a terrace with a view on the Rhune and the nature and a second room ideal to welcome your family meetings or reunions between friends.

Pizzeria to take away in the centre of the village.

A small traditional and family restaurant open 7 days a week, in the village of Ascain and close to all shops. You will be able to eat, at affordable prices, typical dishes of the Basque Country. A local cuisine entirely home-made and fresh products with local producers of the village itself: as Arraioa Farm, Herasoa Farm, Mendiz Mendi Farm and vegetables of Amusenia. Tapas, cocktails, burgers, sandwiches... Daily menu.

Enjoy life, eat pizza! Pizzas to take away or on the terrace in good weather.

Pizzas, a la carte dishes.

In the peace on its terrace or in its garden, the Pyrenees - Atlantic Ocean hotel welcomes you in a family and peaceful atmosphere. You can taste the numerous specialities of the Basque Country there. · Restoring on air-conditioned covered terrace

Gîte for 3 to 4 people in Ascain: 17th century house renovated in 2006 with an independent apartment classified 3 stars is located in a quiet and relaxing area a few steps from the village and shops, 10 minutes from the sea and the start of several hiking trails.

This authentic hotel in the village centre is full of history and has been frequented by many writers and painters over the years. Charming restaurant and terrace overlooking the pelota wall. 27 modern rooms. Half board available. Groups and seminars welcome.

Gîte upstairs in the owner's house. Fitted kitchen (microwave, fridge-freezer), living room, sitting area. 2 bedrooms. (1 double bed. 2 single beds), bathroom (Italian shower), wc. Private washing machine in a storage room to be shared with the owners. Gas heating in addition (meter reading). Small enclosed garden, private terrace with garden furniture. Well situated house in a quiet area, 500 meters from the centre of the village on foot (all amenities).

Apartment for 6 persons with mountain view, located in the heart of the village of Ascain, 100 meters from all shops, 10 minutes walk from the bus stop to Sare or Saint-Jean-de-Luz and then 15 minutes from the stop in the direction of Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle. You are also very close to some hiking trails. This furnished apartment has 2 bedrooms, with 2 beds 140 in one and 1 bed 140 in the other. There is a garden then possibility of renting sheets and renting on weekends in low season.

Apartment for 5 people with mountain view and located in the heart of the village of Ascain, 100 meters from all shops, 10 minutes walk from the bus stop towards Sare or Saint-Jean-de-Luz and 15 minutes from the bus stop towards Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle. You are very close to some hiking trails. This apartment has 2 bedrooms, the 1st with 1 bed 140 and the 2nd with 1 bed 90 and bed 140.you can also benefit from a garden equipped with a table to enjoy even during meals if you wish. There is the possibility of renting sheets and also to rent the weekend in low season.

In the heart of the village of Ascain, we welcome you in a warm setting at the foot of the Rhune mountains where beautiful hikes await you.. The establishment is composed of 16 accommodations, from the double room to the apartment for 6 people, equipped with a microwave-grill, a refrigerator and an electric plate, a bathroom, separate toilets and a flat screen television. The access to the wifi is free.

Apartment located 200 meters from the center of the village, close to all shops, 6km from Saint-Jean-de-Luz and beaches. Ground floor with terrace and small garden facing south. Private parking.