Discover Saint-jean-le-vieux, Pyrénées Atlantiques

A pass in three parts: a good warm up over 10 km almost flat in the middle of a bucolic of a bucolic setting of typical Basque farms and meadows; then a 1st series of then a first series of hairpin bends with wooded slopes often higher than 12%; and after the two middle passes of the climb offering beautiful open panoramas; a second series of hairpin bends often at 8/10% in the beech forest with a balcony finish!

After a discovery of the fortified town of St Jean Pied de Port, go for a walk with your family. The Arradoy and its terraced AOC Irouléguy vines promise a gentle climb, for a breathtaking view of the Cize plain and the Basque Pyrenees. A picnic area awaits you for a snack before coming back down. For the more athletic, a route will take you to the Arradoy peak.

From Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, two routes are available to walkers. Here is the most emblematic one. It runs along the Napoleon road, so called because it was laid out in the time of Napoleon during his campaign in Spain. This stage is very long and has a high gradient: be warned! Be warned! Itinerary closed (on the Spanish part) from November 1st to March 31st for security reasons. The passage is then done by Valcarlos.

As you pass through the fortified southern gates of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, for many it is the big day, between fear and haste, the day when you cross the Pyrenees into Spain. In the cycling version, this is a real mountain pass since, from the village of Arnéguy where you leave French territory, there are almost 18 km of climbing that separate you from the point where you cross the Pyrenees. That said, the gradients remain reasonable (between 4.5 and 7% average), you will just have to be patient in the beech forest of the Valcarlos valley and use the most flexible gear ratios of your bike. At the end of the effort, between the Puerto de Ibañeta and the collegiate church of Roncesvalles, you will have plenty of time to recharge your batteries in places that are steeped in history and have been welcoming travellers for centuries.

From the Romans to the pilgrims, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port has seen time and history go by. The red sandstone of the sturdy buildings transpire of this past and continue to tell us legends of knights. This itinerary of choice weaves its way through the alleys and paths for an immersion as close as possible to the villages and the people. At the crossroads, it is not uncommon to meet some long-distance walkers on their way to Compostela and strong cyclists on the "Scandibérique". Traces of the past are available for young and old and there is no limit to the curiosity on these 14 km which could never end. A picnic break at Lake Harrieta can be an opportunity to taste some of the specialties on board and to swap the bicycle for a pedal boat for a while. In short, a rich and varied tour to enjoy with the whole family.

We are always on top because we follow a beautiful croup and we have breathtaking views... with clear horizons alternating with a few groves of beech trees.

After crossing the Basque hillsides, the stop at the Espil farmhouse, on the heights of Banca, puts you in the "Basque mountain" atmosphere. Beforehand, despite a good climb, the view of the Monhoa will delight many. Possibility to sleep at the hotel in Banca, transfer possible!

From the fortified town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to the discreet but no less charming village of Estérençuby, this stage will fill you with unforgettable images. Surrounded by a panorama of low green mountains, you will progress in a bucolic and majestic environment. For lovers of beautiful photos.

Departing from the capital of Baja Navarra, this partial loop (a portion is round trip) visits the Aldudes Valley. Old forges, chapels, medieval houses, vineyards, salt works and pastoralism. A rolling route that invites you to discover a region with a strong culture.

A little way from the bustling center of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, this charming walk leads from the ramparts to the church of Notre-Dame-du-Bout-du-Pont, following the course of the Nive de Béhérobie. Doubly protected by its imposing military structure and the fervor of its pilgrims, Donibane Garazi is now open to the world, while retaining its Basque authenticity.

In a peaceful setting, with footpaths for hiking close by, 500 m from the village and the Harrieta lake (for fishing), 3 km from the shops, 4 km from St Jean Pied de Port, 20 km from the forest and ski resort of Iraty (cross country skiing) and 12 km from the Spanish border.

45-hectare estate with woods and lake providing 12 accommodation units in 6 terraced houses. Peaceful setting 2km from St Jean Pied de Port and 20km from Iraty forest. 5-room terraced house on 2 floors (100m²). Grd floor: Sitting room + fireplace insert, kitchen + dishwasher + washing machine, 1 room with large double bed, bathroom with WC. Upstairs: sitting room on mezzanine with doublesofabed, 1 room with large double bed, 1 room with twin beds, shower room, WC. TV, telephone with internet connection, terrace with garden furniture + barbecue, private parking space. Baby equipment available. Sheets and household linen supplied.

45-hectare estate with woods and lake providing 12 accommodation units in 6 terraced houses. Peaceful setting 2km from St Jean Pied de Port and 20km from Iraty forest. 5-room terraced house on 2 floors (100m²). Grd floor: Sitting room + fireplace insert, kitchen + dishwasher + washing machine, 1 room with large double bed, bathroom with WC. Upstairs: sitting room on mezzanine with double sofabed, 1 room with large double bed, 1 room with twin beds, shower room, WC. TV, telephone with internet connection, terrace with garden furniture + barbecue, private parking space. Baby equipment available. Sheets and household linen supplied.

This private lake is located on the Harrieta Estate facing the Pyrenees in a particularly protected and green setting. With a surface area of 2 hectares and a depth of 8 meters in the middle, it is fed by spring water of great purity. Here, practice of sport fishing in no kill and traditional fishing, the fish caught with a traditional fishing method must not be thrown back into the water. Possibility to use your own fishing equipment or to rent it on site Children's fishing special: a fishpond containing large quantities of rainbow trout is located near the Harrieta Estate reception building. Ideal for introducing youngsters to fishing, this pond allows beginners to catch fish for sure. Fishing rods and bait are provided free of charge.

Affiliated to the Accueil Paysan network and on a farm, the Etxekonia farm is located in a quiet environment, in the heart of the Basque mountains. At 7 km from St Jean Pied de Port, the accommodation is close to nature activities : fishing, hiking and visits of the region. Pilgrims are welcome on the GR65. The house offers four rooms (three doubles and one triple) on the ground floor and second floor, with a shared bathroom. For the catering formula (tables d'hôtes and snacks for hikers), discover and enjoy the products of the farm: poultry breeding, preserved pork, cheese, jams, eggs and vegetables from the garden.

6 kms from St Jean Pied de Port, in the heart of the village, this detached house at the foot of the Basque mountains offers rest and tranquility to its tenants in a quality environment. The rental is close to the owners' organic farm, offering milk, yoghurt, polenta and corn flour. You can easily explore the Basque country, close to the area's natural and cultural sites. It's the ideal starting point for hiking and nature activities.

4km from St Jean Pied de Port, take advantage of this rental for a nature stay in the Basque Country. On an agricultural exploitation (breeding of beef cattle), you are in the heart of the countryside. The owner will make you discover the passion of his profession. From here a beautiful view of the mountains can be enjoyed. The semi-detached house of classic style includes two bedrooms (1 bed in 90, two beds in 140, a convertible in 140).

Located in the middle of the "Asoritzia" estate, close to the farm, you'll enjoy a magnificent view of the mountain range. This campsite is 2km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port town center, close to all amenities and a wide range of activities. Ideal for exploring the inland Basque country, you'll have a wide choice of visits and hikes nearby. The campsite offers 39 pitches for tents and can accommodate up to 120 people.

Apartment of 55 m² on the 2nd floor of an old farmhouse recently renovated, in a small typical village of the Basque country at 2 mn from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and quiet. It includes a master bedroom (bed in 160, shower room, separate toilet, a secretary) and a bedroom with 2 beds in 90 with a desk, a shower room-wc, a living space with open kitchen, a lounge and a dining room. You have a private space in the large garden of 4000 m² facing the mountains with a corner lounge, a dining table and a plancha. You have access to the shared areas: swimming pool, petanque, ping-pong, billiards and table soccer. Everything here is made to spend a good vacation in all serenity and in the middle of nature! Christel and Dominique will welcome you and will share their good addresses if you wish.

Apartment of 65 m² in an old farmhouse recently renovated in the heart of a typical village of the Basque country at 2 mn from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, in a quiet area. It includes a room with a bed in 160 and a room with 2 beds in 90, a living room with a work space, a large equipped kitchen, a shower room with toilet. It has a nice view on the village and its church. You also have a private space in the garden of 4000 m² facing the mountains with a corner lounge, a dining table and a plancha. You have access to the shared areas: swimming pool, petanque, ping-pong, billiards and table soccer. Everything here is made to spend good vacations in all serenity and in full nature! Christel and Dominique will welcome you and will share their good addresses with you if you wish.

Two minutes from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, at the foot of the Arradoy vineyards, Mattin invites you to discover his goat farm. The farm is made up of 35 goats fed mainly on pasture and forage produced on the farm, guaranteeing quality milk for the production of fresh or mature raw milk cheese. Something for everyone! Don't hesitate to bring the whole family - the goats are just waiting to be petted!

This business was born out of a career change, a need to rediscover meaning and return to my native Basque country. It's a turn I've taken on the fly (Hegaldaka in Basque), a bit of a crazy gamble. Planted in 2019 in Saint Jean Le Vieux, the vines are organically grown. The first vinification took place in 2021, and the wine produced is a dry white. The grapes are harvested by hand and gently pressed in whole bunches.

This site, founded in 15BC, was a stopover on the trans-Pyrenean crossing from Bordeaux to Astorga, and was occupied up to the 5th century. The thermal installations are particularly well preserved. Listed as a Historical Monument since 1984, the museum, constructed near the site, displays archaeological collections derived from the excavations : amphores, sigillated ceramics, coins, glassware, etc. All are welcome to come and listen to the numerous explanations : when, how, who discovered the site, the roman roads, the dwellings...

Cured meats, preserves, foie gras, butcher's shop. Mayte transforms the pigs of the breeders of several communes of the territory. The hams are cured for 10 to 24 months in our open-air drying rooms, naturally. When you visit the ham dryers, you will discover them hanging in the open air. We also produce a wide range of dried sausages from the Basque Country by hand: sausages (beret or boneta), dry sausages, flat or rolled bellies, chorizos, dry lomos... Also, Mayté's artisanal charcuterie invites you to discover its delicious foie gras, duck breasts, confits, rillettes and pâtés. Visits, sale and tasting on the spot.

In the heart of the Basque Country, ten minutes from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, in Ahaxe, discover the precious Bascassan chapel. Whether you're a resident or a holidaymaker, come and immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Bascassan chapel, an unusual and unique place. This small chapel will surprise you with its magnificent painted ceiling and superb altarpiece. The cemetery is home to some fine examples of discoidal stelae. Awaken your curiosity by discovering the tradition of the benoîte.

This private lake is located on the Harrieta Estate facing the Pyrenees in a particularly protected and green setting. With a surface area of 2 hectares and a depth of 8 meters in the middle, it is fed by spring water of great purity. Here, practice of sport fishing in no kill and traditional fishing, the fish caught with a traditional fishing method must not be thrown back into the water. Possibility to use your own fishing equipment or to rent it on site Children's fishing special: a fishpond containing large quantities of rainbow trout is located near the Harrieta Estate reception building. Ideal for introducing youngsters to fishing, this pond allows beginners to catch fish for sure. Fishing rods and bait are provided free of charge.

Dominique and Guy-Michel invite you to come and share their love of farming and its values. They hope you'll enjoy a privileged moment of getting back to basics: nature, animals and human relationships. In July and August, they organize family visits by reservation every Thursday at 5pm: discovery of the farm animals; driving the flock of ewes to the sheepfold; visit to the cheese cellar. During milking season: children's participation. Participatory cheese-making workshop: January to June. For two adults. Reservations required. Groups and buses: by reservation. Direct sales (year-round except Sundays, please contact us) and online sales of farm products: farmhouse ewe's milk cheese (PDO Ossau-Iraty), veal axoa, charcuterie and cured meats from free-range Basque pork (PDO Kintoa).

This cheese dairy is located in Saint-Jean-le-Vieux, a stone's throw from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. It's a family-run, artisanal cheese factory producing 100% ewe's milk. Production and maturing take place on site. There's also a store for direct sales. You can also visit the workshop and cellars. Visits for individuals take place on Friday mornings (by prior arrangement), and groups (50 people maximum) must also book in advance. Tasting tours cost 4? per person.

In the Basque Country, 55 km south-west of Biarritz, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port owes its name to its location at the foot of the Cize passes, including the famous Roncesvalles pass, "ports" meaning "pass". The town is part of the ancient ridge road used by the Romans, Napoleon's armies and, still today, the pilgrims to Compostela (the Saint-Jacques Gate is classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for this reason). At the top of the Mendiguren hill, the citadel built around 1625 stands proudly, dominating the Nive by almost 80m. The visit of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port continues with the castle of the Kings of Navarre, the Prison known as the Bishops' Prison, the church of Notre Dame du Bout du Pont with its 13th century foundations, the Rue d'Espagne which goes up towards Roncesvalles whose houses of merchants and craftsmen have lintels carved in the pink sandstone of Arradoy.

In the Basque Country, 55 km southwest of Biarritz, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port owes its name to its location at the foot of the Cize passes, including the famous Col de Roncesvalles, port meaning pass. Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1998, the Porte Saint-Jacques is the historic entrance for pilgrims on their way to Compostela, who pass through Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port on their way to Roncesvalles from the Madeleine district of Saint-Jean-le-Vieux. It offers a fine view of the Arradoy hill, once a stone quarry and now planted with vines under the Irouléguy appellation. A quick glimpse of a first-rate sports complex then past the Jai Alai, a large building below where Cesta Punta (Basque Pelota) is played, stands the bas-relief of Juan de Huarte, physician-philosopher and precursor of career guidance.

In the village of Saint-Jean-Le-Vieux, 3km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, we offer you a friendly, traditional restaurant. You'll be able to sample our specialties made with local produce: small Iraty trout, piquillos stuffed with cod, local ham, cheese from our shepherds, Basque cakes, etc... Meals and breakfasts can be taken on the terrace, depending on the season, at your convenience. The restaurant is also open to all. In the former cowshed, a dining room seating 150 is available for banquets, weddings and communions. We also cater for groups with tailor-made menus.

In the heart of the Basque mountains, just 10 minutes from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the Pecoitz restaurant offers traditional cuisine. On sunny days, you can enjoy our shaded, peaceful terrace with mountain views. Our recently renovated dining room is air-conditioned and colorful, with large bay windows overlooking nature. Ideal for a meal for two, or for group or family meals. And to refresh you at any time of day, the shaded terrace is at your disposal. Discover our regional specialties: duck foie gras, porcini omelette, cod piquillo, pig's trotter, suckling lamb, roast pigeon according to the season, Basque cake, cocolait "real whole milk flan". Our specialty: pigeon salmis. Listed in the Guide du Routard and Relais Motard (motorcycle garage).

Welcome to this family-run, character-filled establishment in the heart of the Basque Country. Bidarray, famous for its bridge over the River Nive and its Romanesque church perched on a picturesque piton, is on the road to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and the Basque mountains. The fully renovated Noblia restaurant offers flower-filled, shady terraces and culinary specialties. You're in trout heaven!

In the heart of the Basque Country, a stone's throw from Saint Jean Pied de Port, discover the traditional restaurant of l'Arradoy. At the foot of the Arradoy vineyards, you will appreciate the local specialities: trout, eels with parsley, koskera hake, cod piquillos, ham piperade, Basque chicken and other local products. Friendly atmosphere and family cuisine. Groups and banquets by reservation: max 90 people.

At the entrance of the town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port Pizza Ona welcomes you 6 days a week in the evening to taste its pizzas on the spot or to take away. The pizzeria offers a multitude of pizzas ranging from the most traditional to the most exotic with a homemade pizza dough. In addition to its menu, it offers seasonal pizzas with local products.

Located in the center of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, near the Trinquet (where Basque pelota is played), this is the place to be for Basque pelota fans. The restaurant offers a wide choice of regional and traditional cuisine, as well as brasserie formulas. Ice cream sundaes. Snacks available. PMU service.

The "Le Chat Perché" restaurant is ideally located in the old town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, more precisely in the pedestrian Rue de la Citadelle. As soon as you enter the door of this small restaurant, you walk along the small corridor and arrive at a richly decorated dining room followed by a terrace in enfilade. The welcome is warm and inviting. Enjoy dishes cooked with passion by Chef Dumé in a haven of peace, where lunch or dinner is a pleasure. Fresh produce is sourced exclusively from local producers. Restaurant accessible to people with reduced mobility. Reservations strongly recommended.

In the heart of the old town, in the picturesque rue de la Citadelle, bar restaurant cider house in a warm setting combining modernity and authenticity. You will be able to taste throughout the year our specialities of meats and fish cooked with the plancha as well as the copious menu cidrerie. You will appreciate the cider coming from Astigarraga which will accompany the menu and which you will be able to "swallow in one go" (Hurrup eta Klik). Pleasant shaded terrace (not covered) located at the foot of the ramparts. Air-conditioned room.

Located in the heart of the old town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, at the foot of the church and at the crossroads of the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, the Kuka crêperie offers a charming gourmet stopover. On the savoury side: subtle marriages between recipes specific to Basque culinary identity and buckwheat galettes (gluten-free!), whose thousand and one secrets the crêpière learned from a Breton woman. But also more surprising creations: savory-sweet, exotic....Sweet side: we offer a wide choice of sweet crepes such as salted caramel-butter, cookie cream, nutella, pilgrim's penitence... A warm welcome awaits you! Taloas, galettes and crêpes to go!

Located in the heart of the Basque Country, in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, this typical restaurant is near the church in the old town. We offer traditional cuisine based on local produce. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information. This restaurant is listed in the Michelin Guide and the Guide Vert.

The Zubiatia house (next to the bridge in Basque) welcomes you in a traditional Basque house. In an area of the village of St Jean Le Vieux, an ancient Roman site, the view is of the Pyrenees and the countryside Subiatia has 4 rooms on the first floor with independent access and can accommodate up to 9 people. All rooms have private bathroom facilities. A large dining room as well as a fridge and a TV are at the disposal of the guests. In the morning, around a copious breakfast, you can share a moment. Outside, a large terrace faces south. The plus of the guest house: the swimming pool heated in season and secured 4m x 12m. You will be able to relax there at the end of the day, after your hikes.

2 km from the fortified town of St Jean Pied de Port, enjoy this house for a quiet stay. Close to the archeological site of the Roman camp, you are at the foot of the Irati forest The single-storey house does not include a dwelling on the first floor. The house has two bedrooms (2 beds in 140) and all the necessary equipment. The accommodation has a large private garden of 2000 m2. The site offers a beautiful open view on the mountain.

This simple but well arranged little pied-à-terre welcomes you for your holidays in the Basque Country. At 1 km from St Jean Pied de Port, you are close to the mountains and shops. The house is adjoining the owners' house. In traditional style, this studio has a 140cm bed. Outside, share the garden and the terrace common to the owners.

3 km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, at the crossroads of the Chemin de Compostelle and the Iraty forest, come and discover a renovated former family farm inn. Our hotel boasts 15 quiet, comfortable rooms with a beautiful view of the Pyrenees. Our restaurant serves local cuisine. You'll have the chance to sample our specialities made with local produce, including Iraty trout, piquillos stuffed with cod, local ham, shepherds' cheeses, Basque cakes and more... Meals and breakfasts can be taken on the terrace, depending on the season. You'll find quality service and a friendly atmosphere.

Beautiful family house recently renovated, close to the village of Saint-Jean-le-vieux, to the shops and 4.3km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. The house is located at the foot of the mountains near the hiking trails (35min from Iraty), on the road to Compostela. Psacale and Bixintxo are winegrowers and cider makers in organic agriculture at the Bordatto estate (Jaxu): AOC Irouleguy, local wines, ciders and apple wines (local varieties). We welcome you with pleasure for a tasting of the vintages and propose concert/wine bar evenings every Friday of summer until the 19/08. Possibility 12 persons on request.

In a peaceful setting, with footpaths for hiking close by, 500 m from the village and the Harrieta lake (for fishing), 3 km from the shops, 4 km from St Jean Pied de Port, 20 km from the forest and ski resort of Iraty (cross country skiing) and 12 km from the Spanish border.

4 km from St Jean Pied de Port, the rental is on the ground floor of the owners' house. In a very quiet environment, you will benefit from the owners' advice for a stay rich in emotions. The traditional and functional style accommodation is equipped with a good level of comfort. The apartment consists of 2 bedrooms (1 double bed, 1 bed 120 cm, 1 bed 130 cm) The advantage of the accommodation: its spacious garden arranged for you to relax or to have a meal on sunny days.

Gite located on the first floor of the owners' renovated house, 1.1km from the village of St Jean-Le-Vieux and 3.5km from St Jean-Pied-de-Port Entrance, equipped kitchen (fridge freezer, ceramic hob, dishwasher, microwave), living room (TV), 1 bedroom (1 bed 140), 1 bedroom (1 bed 140 and 1 bed 90 bunk), relaxation area, shower room, toilet. Balcony with garden furniture. Possibility to rent sheets. Electric heating included. Wifi internet connection Garden on the first floor with garden furniture, barbecue.

Nice detached house in a quiet area at 1 km from the town. Panoramic view on the surrounding mountains. Ground floor: Equipped kitchenette (m-wave, dishwasher), living room, lounge area (TV, DVD player, mobile phone, fireplace/stove), 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 toilet. (1 bed 2 pers.). Water closet, wc, laundry room (washing machine). And. 2 bedrooms. (1 double bed. 2 single beds). S.d.b/wc. Electric heating and wood in addition. Covered terrace. Courtyard, enclosed garden. Garden furniture, barbecue. Owners' house nearby. Poss. loc. sheets + linen.

45-hectare estate with woods and lake providing 12 accommodation units in 6 terraced houses. Peaceful setting 2km from St Jean Pied de Port and 20km from Iraty forest. 5-room terraced house on 2 floors (100m²). Grd floor: Sitting room + fireplace insert, kitchen + dishwasher + washing machine, 1 room with large double bed, bathroom with WC. Upstairs: sitting room on mezzanine with doublesofabed, 1 room with large double bed, 1 room with twin beds, shower room, WC. TV, telephone with internet connection, terrace with garden furniture + barbecue, private parking space. Baby equipment available. Sheets and household linen supplied.