Uncover the gems of Sare with HOTEL BARATCHARTEA SARL SOC EXPLOIT

With the beautiful village of Sare as the starting point, this hike honours the built heritage, the old stones, the history and the landscapes by a very varied loop where no place is left to monotony. From a sporting point of view already, since climbs and descents follow one another without transition, never very long, but let's admit it with some steep climbs sometimes quite tough. Small efforts to complete this very varied round between the town hall square and the heights of the Saint-Ignace pass. But above all, on the way, the discoveries follow one another. Treading the cobblestones of the old galtzada (medieval road) is a poignant heritage preamble, followed further on by an old washhouse, the remains of the Napoleonic redoubts or even houses and bordes of traditional construction.

DURING THE WORKS, FOLLOW THE TRACK OF THE GR10 TO THE COL DES 3 FONTAINES Away from the most popular climbing routes, the eastern side of the Rhune massif is not the best known. However, several paths here offer original views of the massif and of the trough-shaped valley of the Nivelle. Starting from Sare, pushed in the back by the first rays of the sun, you will go to the discovery of hills and valleys, crossing half a dozen passes.

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.

Starting from the caves of Sare (which are worth a visit), the ascent of this proud summit offers an immense panorama. The ascent of the French side, which is sometimes sustained, quickly brings you close to the summit ridge, which you will walk along to reach the summit of Atxuria. The route continues in front of the village of Zugarramurdi, the village of witches..., before plunging onto the Spanish side. A wild crossing precedes a more straightforward descent back to the French side, passing at the foot of cliffs made up of innumerable reddish-brown slopes: overhanging, they serve as a refuge and nesting place for colonies of griffon vultures that fly over this idyllic pastoral landscape. As you approach the forest, the hundred-year-old beech trees and the refreshing company of the streams give this gentle valley an enchanting air.

This itinerary starts from one of the most beautiful villages in France, crosses the border behind the Rhune and reaches the Ibardin pass where you can have a snack. Finally, the tough climb to Xoldokogaina and the Calvary mountain will allow you to admire the ocean before going for a dip on the beach of Hendaye.

A magical stage due to the historical wealth of Sare (Roman redoubts and bridges, megalithic parks: tumuli, cromlechs, dolmens, caves...). The riders advance by turning around the Rhune. Unobstructed view of the bay of Txingudi and the Gulf of Biscay. What happiness!

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.

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.

The rounded ridges that stretch from the heights of Sare (at the Saint-Ignace pass), to the gates of Espelette (at the Pinodieta pass), surround the valley of Sare and Aïnhoa to the north, shared geographically with the Spanish villages of Zugarramurdi and Urdax. These crests offer only one point of weakness, dug by the Nivelle, in the district of Amotz of Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle. This is where the walk begins, near the remains of an old Romanesque bridge, half of which has now been amputated following various floods. The walk will quickly take you to the heights of Saint-Pée along comfortable paths and, if you take care to avoid the pigeon hunting season (October), you can enjoy the changing views from both Saint-Pée and Sare. Old Napoleonic military posts, the redoubts, add a heritage dimension to this walk.

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.

Charming guest house 13km from the sea and at the foot of the mountains, located in the Ihalar district of one of the most beautiful villages in France. Basque house from the XVIth century with 3 welcoming and comfortable rooms. Garden and terrace with view on the Rhune mountain. Breakfasts made with home-made products.

A magnificent location at the foot of the Basque mountains. Comfortable bedrooms, regional cuisine and authentic traditional atmosphere. Half board and full board available.

Apartment of 90 m2 on the 1st floor in a house located in a classified "bastide" of the 17th century named "Ihalar" with a parking space. Very nice view on the Rhune mountain from one room. Situated 1 km from the centre, possibility to come on foot to the centre of the village with all its shops by a lane recently fitted out for pedestrians. Ideally situated for tourist visits and leisure activities (Train de la Rhune, prehistoric caves, Basque Cake Museum, Ortillopitz house from the 17th century and Etxola animal park). 14km from the beach, 5 minutes from Spain with the Bentas (border shops). Close to many hiking trails, such as the GR10, GR8, the Xareta cross-border hike. Close to the Ihartzeartea house (between the ferns), receptions, weddings.

In Sare, at the foot of the mountains, in the Plaza housing estate, close to the village. Beautiful apartment of over 400m² in typical Labourdine house, close to the center. Enclosed grounds (gates). The apartment is located in a Labourdine-style house consisting of two high-capacity dwellings. The house was completed in June 1999, using traditional materials such as stone, wood and terracotta, with old-fashioned flooring, traditional shutters and solid rustic furniture... The gîte comprises 12 rooms on 3 levels and can accommodate a maximum of 12 people. It is located in a very quiet area about 500m from the village, which can be reached by a shortcut. The gîte is non-smoking inside and pets are not allowed. Cleaning at the end of your stay is compulsory, departure at 8:30 a.m. Bed linen is available on request and at an additional cost.

In Sare, at the foot of the mountains, in the Plaza housing estate, near the village. Upstairs duplex in typical Labourdine house, close to center. Enclosed plot. Summer arrival and departure on Fridays from 6.30pm. The apartment is in a Labourdine-style house with another rental unit. The house was completed in June 1999, using traditional materials such as stone, wood and terracotta, with old-style flooring, traditional shutters and solid rustic furniture... The 200m² furnished apartment is designed to accommodate a maximum of 8 people. It is located in a very quiet area about 500m from the village, which can be reached via a shortcut. The property is non-smoking inside and pets are not allowed. End-of-stay cleaning service required. Linen hire available on request.

In Sare, 1km from the town Renovated apartment in a large 16th century house with view on the mountains. The apartment is composed of a living room with a fully equipped American kitchen and a double sofa bed, a bedroom with a double bed and a bathroom with shower. Outside, garden furniture and a barbecue are also at your disposal. Private car park.

Spacious, recent 200 m² Basque house with large, bright rooms, located 300 m from the village square and 200 m from the Ihartze Artea farm (wedding venue, conference center, etc.), comprising 5 bedrooms, 1 living room, 2 bathrooms and 1 modern, comfortable kitchen. Outside, the garden and terrace open onto the Basque mountains. Possibility of renting by the night with a minimum of 2 nights valid outside July and August.

3* gite in an old 17th-century farmhouse located close to the GR10 (50m) and the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. Close to the pedestrian walkway for quick access to the village center and shops. This 8/10-person apartment is ideal for hikers, mountain bikers, cyclists, small groups of friends and family gatherings. Independent entrance, terrace and garden, garden tables, deckchairs, parasols. First floor: fitted kitchen, living room with fireplace and direct access to outside, storage room, shower room/WC, bedroom with 1 double bed (140cm). Upstairs: 1 bedroom with 3 single beds (90cm) + 1 bedroom with 2 single beds (90cm), shower room with double basin and separate WC. 1 bedroom with 3 single beds and en-suite shower room/WC. The apartment is 600m from the "au milieu des fougères" party venue.

In Sare, in the heart of the village, three modern guest rooms with private bathroom in a completely renovated family house. Very nice view on the mountains, the village and the countryside. Garden and garden furniture. Parking lot. WIFI. Independent access. At the departure of many hikes and on the Grandes Randonnées 10 and 8.

1.5 km from the center of Sare, classified among the most beautiful villages of France, in the Goiburua district, in an old Basque farmhouse of the XVIIth century, in the countryside, in a quiet place Room for 2 persons with beautiful view on the mountains and the village. Independent garden with garden furniture. Private parking. A fridge and a microwave are at your disposal. Possibility to add an extra bed for a 3rd person

Discoveries and enrichments around books, images and sound. Books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, digital documents. On-site consultation, loans, computer portal.

Chapelle du XVIIe siècle qui se trouve en face du centre équestre Olhaldea à 3km du bourg du village. Elle fut bâtie sur les bases de l'édifice primitif (XVème) est célèbre pour avoir accueilli Napopléon III et l'Impératrice Eugénie de Montijo (XIXème) A l'intérieur, deux étages de galeries en bois. Ouverte seulement pour y célébrer la cérémonie religieuse de la Sainte Catherine, fin novembre.

1813-1814. The Basque people devastated by Napoleonic troops. Routed by Wellington at Gazteiz-Vitoria on June 21, 1813, Napoleonic troops from Portugal and Spain crossed the passes between Les Aldudes and Hendaye. 2 armies clashed, 112,000 coalition soldiers (British, Spanish, Wellington's Portuguese) and 68,000 Napoleonic soldiers under Marshal Soult in this small territory (11,000 dead). Villages were pillaged and forests burned. It took the villages 30 years to recover from this war. The Basque country coped very well with the presence of the disciplined troops Wellington left behind until the armistice. This monument bears witness to the suffering of the Basque people.

The Santa Katalina picnic area with tables and benches is planted with trees and around the chapel of St. Catherine, 3 km from the centre.

"Two vertical pillars of carved sandstone serve as a base for a horizontal txalaparta carved from acacia wood. One of the pillars bears the symbols of Basque fishermen, the whale and the boat, as well as an Indian's head (symbol of the universality of races) and his canoe. The second pillar is pierced by a well of light, symbol of the transfer of a serpent (Heresungue, from Basque mythology) and spiritual energy between its base (our material universe) and the immaterial space. [...] In this spirit, this strong sculpture now stands on the pediment where the clacking of the pelota and the echo of the sound generated by the two txalaparta players will mingle." Text and photo ©Jean Pouyet

"Going from the town hall towards the pediment, along its left side [...], we discover below a mural whose dimensions are far from being anecdotal. It is a reproduction of Picasso's painting "Gernika", although a little less imposing than the original (5.43 by 2.24 m compared to 7.77 by 3.49 m). The [...] work was carried out by the Axuri'arte association, which renamed the garden that extends the art gallery they occupy "Gernika Plaza" for the occasion. A dozen artists used their brushes for two months to create a work of art that faithfully reproduces the original [...]. A way for all these artists to also pay tribute, beyond the symbolism represented by the 80th anniversary of the events that took place in Gernika in April 1937, to the tradition of welcoming Basque refugees to the village [...] Text ©Jean Pouyet

Wall with bas-relief depicting a soldier throwing a grenade with a Basque pelota player as a shadow and executing the same movement. This memorial stele by the sculptor Maxime Real del Sarte pays special tribute to Victor Ithurria, whose skill with Basque pelota made him a particularly effective grenade thrower. The indication: Victor ITHURRIA - 1914-1944 - HEROES OF THE FREE FRENCH FORCES - PILOTARI ZINTZO

Opposite the town hall and close to the church is the pediment. Basque pelota is a sport that is still widely practised in Basque culture today. As in all Basque villages, Sare has its own pelota court. There have been four of them, two of which have disappeared. The oldest one dates from 1803, was raised in 1902 and restored many times between 1919 and 1999. The new pediment, dating from 1977, has two walls, for playing rebot (one of the many specialities of the pelota).

More than 80 lintels have been listed in the commune of Sare. The lintels are stones carved on the facades of houses, churches, oratories, pediments... One finds mainly inscribed on this stone the date of construction of the building and/or the name of the owner if it is a house, and sometimes various inscriptions. The lintels describe and define the Etxe, the house.

15 km southeast of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the Atlantic coast, Sare is located at the foot of the mythical Rhune mountain, which can be climbed from the village, on foot or by a cogwheel train at the Saint-Ignace pass. For a long time considered as a capital of smuggling in the Basque Country, Sare was also a great meeting place for illustrious people: Napoleon III and the Empress Eugenie, Orson Wells, Winston Churchill or even General de Gaulle. Classified among the most beautiful villages of France, Sare displays one of the most beautiful churches of Labourd, the church of Saint-Martin, presenting three floors of galleries in carved oak and their balusters in turned wood. Equipped with a carved bell, its 5-story bell tower can be visited. Basque pelota court, numerous oratories, farmhouse with frescos by Gaspar Montes Iturrioz complete the visit of the streets with half-timbered houses.

At the foot of "la Rhune", an emblematic mountain of the Basque Country, in the picturesque "Ihalar" district, one kilometre from the town of Sare, in a quiet area, our beautiful Basque house welcomes you for a stay to discover an authentic country shared between sea and mountains. You will be able to taste a local cuisine which varies according to the seasons and the vegetable garden only for hotel guests, evening meal at 7pm until mid-December, closing due to Covid.

It is at the foot of the Rhune, in the village of Sare, in a pretty Basque style house that Ephéméride, vegan restaurant and tea room, is located. Passionate and self-taught, Marion welcomes you with a home cooking 100% vegetal, organic/natural, seasonal and local, in a peaceful and friendly environment Lunchtime catering; 2 starters, 2 main courses, 2 desserts per week which vary according to the seasons, the productions and the inspiration. Tea room during the day; you will find homemade delicacies, fresh juices and vegetables, smoothies, tea, coffee, local artisanal drinks.

Located in the center of the village, the Akoka restaurant offers gourmet dishes and salads to be enjoyed on the terrace You will also find regional specialties such as the famous Basque cake (cream or cherry) home-made. Possibility to buy regional and quality products in the restaurant's store.

Sanitary protocol in place: wearing of the mask requested from the clients, hydroalcoholic gel available, physical distance, wearing of the mask for the staff. In the centre of the village of Sare, close to its shops, the pizzeria Goxo welcomes you for lunch and dinner Located on the GR10 route and at the start of the Xareta hike, this pizzeria is ideally placed for hikers who want to regain their strength. A la carte a varied choice of pizzas to take away: pizzas with local cheeses and flavours. Possibility to compose your own pizza!

Located in the village square of Sare, classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, the restaurant Arraya holds the title of Master Restaurateur (100% home-made with 80% local and seasonal products) and is located in a beautiful Basque family home from the 16th century Rémy Le Charpentier, chef, fisherman, passionate about nature and mushrooms, will present you his cuisine, in his image, demanding and creative, inspired by his journey from his roots to the Basque Country. We offer you a quality service, a refined and sought-after cuisine in a pleasant setting. You will have the possibility of installing you in a beautiful dining room or on the shaded terrace.

In Sare, close to the caves, 7km from the town centre and close to the Spanish border, this traditional restaurant with covered terrace will offer you a beautiful view of the valley. On reservation, groups can eat a good méchoui in a cave with candlelight, atmosphere guaranteed! (open for lunch only). Closed on Mondays, closed until further notice, closure linked to Covid. Telephone: 00 34 948 59 91 10

In Sare, near Les Grottes, 7km from the town center and on the Spanish border, come and enjoy the delicious omelettes of Venta Antton. On the restaurant's shaded terrace, you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the Basque country, while dining on large stone tables from La Rhune, closed until further notice.

In the Olhalde district, in a 16th century Basque farmhouse, Guillaume and Jean Fagoaga offer you two menus with several choices depending on the vegetable garden and the market You will be received in their family home as friends with the possibility of having lunch or dinner in the different rooms or on the terrace with a view of the garden and mountains. Only on reservation.

Arka, artisan butcher and gourmet bistro in the heart of the village of Sare. On the bistro side, epicurean and bistronomic cooking in agreement with a nice wine list, magnificent terrace facing the Rhune mountain, inside vintage decoration. Adjacent to the bistro is our store with all our preserves and cured meats, of course from local breeds, pigs raised in the open air in the Basque Country, such as the Basque pig from Kintoa, without nitrite salt and without preservatives. In addition, there is a selection of local beers, a wine cellar and liqueurs. To your taste buds for the gourmets and the gourmands. Producer artisan of quality to the culinary college of France, French Academician of the dry hams.

Charming guest house 13km from the sea and at the foot of the mountains, located in the Ihalar district of one of the most beautiful villages in France. Basque house from the XVIth century with 3 welcoming and comfortable rooms. Garden and terrace with view on the Rhune mountain. Breakfasts made with home-made products.

A magnificent location at the foot of the Basque mountains. Comfortable bedrooms, regional cuisine and authentic traditional atmosphere. Half board and full board available.

Apartment of 90 m2 on the 1st floor in a house located in a classified "bastide" of the 17th century named "Ihalar" with a parking space. Very nice view on the Rhune mountain from one room. Situated 1 km from the centre, possibility to come on foot to the centre of the village with all its shops by a lane recently fitted out for pedestrians. Ideally situated for tourist visits and leisure activities (Train de la Rhune, prehistoric caves, Basque Cake Museum, Ortillopitz house from the 17th century and Etxola animal park). 14km from the beach, 5 minutes from Spain with the Bentas (border shops). Close to many hiking trails, such as the GR10, GR8, the Xareta cross-border hike. Close to the Ihartzeartea house (between the ferns), receptions, weddings.

Nice gîte fitted on the first floor of a house of character, adjoining the owner's house, in the listed district of "Petit Paris". Equipped kitchen area (m-wave, fridge-freezer.), dining area, lounge area. 2 bedrooms. (1 bed 160, 2 single beds.). Water closet. Wc. Oil-fired central heating (7 euros/day). Private parking, courtyard on the street, access to the communal garden by alleyway. Private covered terrace. Garden furniture, barbecue. Poss. rental sheets. In the village: little train of the Rhune, caves.. prehistoric... Free wifi access.

Gîte on the ground floor of the owner's character house (access by 2 steps). Equipped kitchenette (microwave, fridge-freezer, induction hob), living room, lounge, 1 bedroom (1 bed 160)/toilet, shower room, wc. Electric heating included. Sheets and table linen included. Possibility to rent towels . Private terrace + covered terrace, enclosed grounds, small private garden and large communal garden, garden furniture, barbecue, plancha Beautiful view on the Rhune and its little train from the garden at the back of the house Listed district of Sare (Petit Paris). Numerous walks in the village. Prehistoric caves nearby.

Gîte in the owner's character house. Built-in kitchen (washing machine, dishwasher, microwave)/dining area/living area (fireplace/insert, colour TV). Tel. mobicarte. 2 bedrooms. (1 double bed. 2 single beds). S.d.b. Wc. Gas central heating and wood in addition. Large enclosed courtyard. Parking space. Garden furniture. Barbecue. Gîte located in a listed area. Nice view on the Rhune. Poss. loc. sheets, towels.

Sur Sare, a 17th century house in a listed district called Ihalar, bastide street. Quiet with a view of the Rhune mountain. Ideal to visit the Basque Country.

Gîte upstairs in a house with 1 other rental. Kitchen area (microwave), living room (sofa), 2 bedrooms (1 bed 140. 2 beds 90). Shower room. Wc. Balcony. Electric heating in addition. Enclosed garden, garden furniture, barbecue, children's playground. View of the Pyrenees. Possibility to rent sheets and towels. Internet access.

Lodging on the ground floor in an independant cottage near the owner's house. Kitchenette (microwave, fridge-freezer). Living room. Lounge area (colour TV, wood stove). 2 bedrooms. (1 double bed. 2 single beds. superp.). Water closet/wc (washing machine). Extra electric heating. Covered terrace. Small non enclosed garden. Garden furniture. Barbecue. Poss. loc. sheets, towels. Close to the village and an equestrian centre.