Biper Gorri: Camping Adventures in Espelette

Itinerary intended for a hiking public, this loop allows the discovery of two massifs of the Pyrenean piedmont. The ascent of Mondarrain allows first of all the discovery of Espelette's districts and its beautiful houses. It is then a more mountainous atmosphere which awaits the hiker on the sides of this famous mountain. Many curiosities are to be discovered there such as the wetlands and their carnivorous plants or the betizu, small wild cow of the Basque Country. Once the summit is climbed, the view on Labourd is surprising. The path continues in the zones of estives where it will be possible to meet cows, horses, ewes before joining the massif of Soporro. The viewpoints are numerous and the progression, easier, allows to take full advantage of the numerous natural curiosities which offer the course.

Itinerary intended for a hiking public, this loop allows the discovery of two massifs of the Pyrenean piedmont. The ascent of Mondarrain allows first of all the discovery of Espelette's districts and its beautiful houses. It is then a more mountainous atmosphere which awaits the hiker on the sides of this famous mountain. Many curiosities are to be discovered there such as the wetlands and their carnivorous plants or the betizu, small wild cow of the Basque Country. Once the summit is climbed, the view on Labourd is surprising. The path continues in the zones of estives where it will be possible to meet cows, horses, ewes before joining the massif of Soporro. The viewpoints are numerous and the progression, easier, allows to take full advantage of the numerous natural curiosities which offer the course.

This itinerary allows a discovery of the heights of the village of Espelette by offering to the mountain biker very beautiful points of view. First on road and wide tracks, the route takes the hiker on the slopes of the Errebi mount and the three crosses pass. A nice easy descent where you can enjoy yourself followed by a steeper ascent to reach the Zuharreta pass where a more mountainous atmosphere can be felt. It is on the Mondarrain that a more technical portion will require a particular vigilance with a descent of the bicycle advised by places. The view over the Labourd to the ocean is amazing. The only thing left to do is to go down to the village of Espelette where a visit is a must.

This very easy itinerary is ideal for families or those not used to long hikes. Alternating between inhabited areas and other more wild areas, the route allows the discovery of a part of the rich Basque heritage. The hiker will be able to enjoy the beautiful houses with their typical architecture but also a green setting where the Manex sheep graze against the backdrop of the first peaks of the Basque Country. A village known for its red pepper, the passage near the interpretation center of the Espelette pepper and the workshop of the Espelette pepper offers to the walker the possibility of knowing more about this plant originating from South America and brought to the Basque Country in 1650.

Let's say it without detours, the Méhatché pass is certainly one of the most difficult Pyrenean passes to climb by bike, if not one of the most difficult in France. Very often, the slope is in the range of 15 to 20% (certainly in a grandiose setting), too steep for the classic gear ratios of road bikes (a mountain bike will be better suited). Approached by the very short but formidable Légarré pass, the challenge is like a real "construction site", which must be tackled with excellent physical fitness and good preparation.

Larressore stretches along the valleys of the Nive and Latsa rivers, over areas of meadows, crops, woods and pastures. This predominance of agricultural and pastoral activities is probably the origin of the village's name: Larre soro, meaning moorland and meadows in Basque. After 1510, it acquired its own name, separating from the commune of Halsou. Since protohistory, it has been a natural crossroads, becoming a passageway on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela as early as the 10th century, as evidenced by the Pelerenia house. The municipality boasts some remarkable buildings, such as the minor seminary, founded by a native of the village, as well as traditional houses like Karrikahiriartia. The Ainciart-Bergara makhila workshop is located on the pediment square. Neighborhoods such as Portuita, once a hub of the river trade, and Xopera near the Devil's Bridge, with its washho

From the Col de Pinodieta, the route leads to Cambo-les-Bains via the Urzumu hill and the Bergerie hill. This spa town boasts a rich heritage, including the sublime Villa Arnaga. On the way, you can make a detour to Espelette to discover the village and its famous chilli pepper.

Starting from a beautiful little village, Halsou, this itinerary is ideal for families looking for an easy and shady route. In the middle of the pollarded oaks it will be good to look for a little coolness during the summer heat. This forest is very pleasant and it is surprising to feel surrounded by forest while being so close to the surrounding houses. The washhouse of Arraia, isolated in the nature, brings an original touch which allows to realize what could be the life of formerly.

Starting from a beautiful little village, Halsou, this is a pleasant and easy route for walkers looking for a varied and often shady hike. In the middle of the pollarded oaks it will be good to look for a little coolness during the summer heat. This forest is very pleasant and it is surprising to feel surrounded by forest while being so close to the surrounding houses. From forest valleys to residential areas, this route is rich in variety and allows you to discover the Basque countryside and its beautiful houses.

Espelette is one of the most famous villages of the Basque Country, especially for its pepper. It's close to Espelette that we propose you a small pleasant hike, in a typical Labourd scenery. And if sometimes the slopes are steep, the effort will always be rewarded by a panorama up to your expectations. Thus, in good weather, you will have the opportunity to see La Rhune or even the Atlantic Ocean. Not forgetting that the pottoks and the sheep will be your guests of the day in these low altitude meadows. The itinerary is varied, alternating between pasture and forest.

Very functional house of 120m ² located 1.5km from the center of the village of Espelette. The gîte is composed of a kitchen, a living room, a bathroom and 3 bedrooms. 2 double beds, 2 single beds, bath, shower, enclosed garden, terrace, garage, heating. Ideally located in a quiet area, the house offers a breathtaking view of the mountains. Dogs accepted under conditions.

Situated on a farm 3km from the village, this detached rental enjoys a privileged location in the quiet countryside. The gîte comprises a fully-equipped kitchen opening onto the living room, three bedrooms and a bathroom with walk-in shower. 3 double beds, shower, garden, terrace, parking, heating, air-conditioning. Beds made up on arrival. This rental is accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Apartment adjoining the owners' house. The rental is located on a farm 3km from the village. It comprises a kitchen opening onto a living room on the ground floor and 3 bedrooms with bathrooms on the first floor. 2 x 2-person beds, 2 x 1-person beds, shower, bath, balcony, garden, parking, heating, bed linen provided on request, telephone. Heating included in the price. Weekend rentals.

Built on one level in an independent house near the owners, the gite is composed of an equipped kitchenette, a living room with a lounge area, a bedroom with a 160cm bed, a bathroom with integrated toilet, a storeroom with washing machine, garden, terrace, garden furniture, parking. Moreover a mezzanine with 2 beds 90 x 200 and reading corner are at your disposal Little extras that will make your life easier: the bed is made on your arrival, towels and household linen are provided, and floor heating is included Animals are not accepted.

Fully-equipped studio located on the 1st floor of the owner's house in a quiet residential area, 600m from the pedestrian street and Espelette town center. The apartment comprises a bedroom, living room, kitchenette and bathroom with walk-in shower. The property has a lovely garden. Car parking available.

Guided tour of village : château, church, Labourdine houses, pottok ponies, etc. A look at the customs and traditions of the Basque Country. Capital of the pimento pepper, Espelette is also the birthplace of several famous personalities (Armand David whom discovered the panda in China, Agnes Souret the first miss France).

Hôtel Euzkadi is located in the center of the village of Espelette, close to the pediment, the castle and the market square. Enjoy a pleasant stay in this peaceful village, typical of the Basque Country. The region?s finest points of interest are just a short drive from our hotel. Hotel Restaurant Euzkadi has been owned by the same family since 1873. From a well-known inn, thanks to the large markets held every Wednesday in Espelette, the hotel restaurant has been transformed over the generations, and today boasts 27 rooms, a large dining room, a bar, a cellar and private parking. Today, the 5th generation of the family is constantly striving to combine tradition and modernity. Respectful of our heritage, our territory and our terroir. Proud to carry on and pass on the family heritage.

In Larressore, 7 minutes from the thermal baths of Cambo, new apartment of 45m² on the ground floor. This T2 includes 1 living room kitchen of 27m ², 1 bathroom (with washing machine) and 1 bedroom of 11m ² with a large closet. The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen. You will be able to enjoy the outside with its private terrace. An individual parking space is also available. Minimum rental period 5 days.

In the south of Bayonne, Cambo-les-Bains had welcomed many famed characters, one of them is the autor of Cyrano de Bergerac. Edmond Rostand had built here the house of his dreams, a villa inspired by white and red basque farms. He turned the interior into a real sumptuous theater set. Now Museum of France, you'll find a collection of objects and art masterpieces reminding of the famous writer and his family. Around the house, Edmond Rostand had also created 15ha of garden : A French garden composed of ponds, water mirrors and a pergola and an English garden allying greenery and curved lines. Arnaga's gardens are certified "Jardins Remarquables" and also welcoming several events as concerts, expositions or other animations.

Leaning against the 17th century church, in a typical district of the village of Itxassou, the hotel ** restaurant du Chêne is a beautiful 17th century country inn On the hotel side, you will discover 15 charming rooms where rustic and modern styles are combined with beautiful acidulous colours. Its garden is furnished with armchairs and deckchairs inviting you to a moment of relaxation facing the mountains. In the restaurant, an inventive, generous and gourmet cuisine, to be enjoyed in a room with blue beams or on one of its 3 terraces.

Welcome to the Atelier du Piment, a place of work and life created in 2002, where you can meet authentic and tasty people. From the field to the tasting, the Atelier du Piment team will make you discover all the secrets of a unique production in the world : the production of Espelette chilli pepper. Origin and tradition, know-how and quality are the key words of this culture. According to the season of the pepper, visit the exploitation, from the greenhouses to the room of the ovens or play with your family through the fields during a playful discovery tour. Your visit will end with a tasting of our chili pepper in all its forms and you will appreciate the explosion of flavors caused by its marriage with our local products. Visits for groups and culinary animations on reservation.

Lurretik is a store located in the center of the village. Farmers and producers of Espelette chilli pepper for several generations, we defend a sustainable agriculture on a human scale and respectful of the environment and traditions. Store of local products : Espelette chilli pepper, gastronomic preserves, Ossau Iraty farm cheeses, Idoki farm products, products of the 7 provinces. Guided tour of the farm every Tuesday and Friday at 11am from May to the end of October. Group visits by appointment.

The church of St Etienne dates from the 17th century. It was listed as a historical monument in 1925 and is considered one of the most beautiful in the Basque Country with a keep bell tower, a renaissance portal, 3 floors of galleries and a 17th century altarpiece. In the vicinity of the church, a cemetery of discoid steles has been set up to preserve our heritage and pay tribute to our ancestors.

In 1920 the most beautiful woman in France was in Espelette. After the First World War a Parisian journalist took the initiative of starting the first national beauty contest "the most beautiful woman in France". Miss Agnès Souret, 18 years old, won the contest.

Father Armand David was one of the first to reveal China to the West. This Lazarist missionary made a huge contribution to the natural science movement of the 19th century. His expeditions in China enabled him to show to Europe as a whole, species of animals such as the Panda and Stag of father Armand David as well as new species such as the Buddleia (butterfly tree) or the Davidia Involucrata (Tissue tree).

The Barons of Ezpeleta had a castle built around the year 1000. Baroness Juliana Henriquez died without descendants in 1694, and bequeathed the castle to the inhabitants of Espelette. In 1997, an archaeological survey on its periphery, in the form of trench borings, revealed the remains of a fortress from the late Middle Ages. These vestiges are in fact those of a vast enclosure flanked by 5 towers, in the shape of an irregular polygon which, it seems, extended over the whole district. The corner tower was listed in the inventory of Historic Monuments in 1937 and the entire castle in 1993. It houses permanent exhibitions.

Since 1993, Antton Chocolatier has been perpetuating the chocolate tradition of the Basque Country. The chocolatiers share their passion by inviting you into the workshop. The visit accompanied by a guide lasts about thirty minutes and is friendly and educational. The tour begins with panels retracing the main stages in the transformation of the bean into chocolate. The visit continues in the workshop decorated like a Basque kitchen where you can see the chocolate makers at work. The chocolates bear Basque names and decorations and the specialities display their colours: Espelette pepper, cherry, Izarra, Salies de Béarn salt blend with pure cocoa butter chocolates to delight the taste buds of gourmets.

The parish church of Larressore is dedicated to Saint Martin and dates from the end of the 19th century. First mentioned in the 13th century when Larressore was an important stop on the road to Santiago de Compostela, the church of St. Martin was rebuilt several times. The current building was built in 1893 and replaces an old building dating from the 17th century. Restored and refurbished between 1967 and 1970, the church has two floors of wooden galleries reserved for men during masses in the Basque tradition. Its interior also houses discoid and tabular stelae and a remarkable statue of Pietà dating from the 16th century. The Virgin of Mercy in the church of Saint-Martin is classified as a Historic Monument.

Built from 1733, the chapel of the Seminary of Larressore was enlarged and embellished in a pure baroque style during the first half of the 19th century. Listed as a Historic Monument, its restoration was completed in 2010. The chapel reflects the important influence that the seminary had at that time. Visit the crypt and military cemetery possible.

At the beginning of the war 1914 - 1918, the seminary of Larressore becomes military auxiliary hospital n°216 and will be treated there the soldiers wounded on the front of the great war. 254 of them will die in Larressore and 131 will be buried on a ground yielded by the commune. A military square of 61 graves was created for those who died between 10 October 1914 and 10 October 1919. There are soldiers of different nationalities. Access to the cemetery is through a small gate that is permanently open.

Pika Ostatua, located in the heart of the village of Espelette, offers traditional, tasty cuisine at lunchtime, with homemade recipes based on fresh, local produce: veal axoa, Basque chicken, txilindron lamb, hake, ewe's milk cheese with cherry jam and Basque cake. In the evening, you can dine to your heart's content, with cassolettes, tapas, planks or a meat and fish menu for those with a sweet tooth. Open every day for lunch and dinner during the summer, you can enjoy our large, shady terrace, which welcomes the sun all day long. We also offer musical entertainment and a varied menu of local drinks. Our watchword is conviviality! Ongi Etorri at PIka Ostatua!

Located in the heart of Espelette, a small emblematic village of the Basque Country, Etchehandia offers in its restaurant emblematic and traditional dishes reworked with care by our Chef and his team. A large Basque building dating from 1555, recently renovated, the restaurant welcomes you inside with a breathtaking view of the Rhune on the first floor, or outside with a lively terrace on the street side and a calm one in the garden. Epicurean friends and gastronomy lovers, we offer you a traditional, typical and greedy cuisine. By coming to our place, you make the choice to taste delicious dishes prepared with passion, for the greatest pleasure of your taste buds. Our cuisine is a reflection of the Basque Country, of the Eusk'art of living and of our local products, of course! It is also a reflection of our chef and the whole team; a mix of bon vivants and explorers.

The restaurant Choko Ona is located in the heart of the village of Espelette, near the church. The whole team will be happy to welcome you for a gastronomic moment in a building of the XVIIIth century entirely renovated. Come and enjoy our terrace facing the mountains or our contemporary and warm room. The restaurant's menu changes every month to allow you to discover Basque products from a sustainable peasant agriculture!

The Pottoka restaurant is located in the heart of the village of Espelette. It embodies the modern and the old with a lot of taste and simplicity. On sunny days, we offer you a covered terrace. Here you can eat a cuisine elaborated with fresh products where you can feel a real creativity. And the snack corner, Krakada in Basque where you can find pâté, ham, chorizo... And even salads in the summer season, without forgetting ice creams and homemade pastries. It is on our side bar and its lemonade area that you can enjoy a beautiful terrace overlooking the town. Closed in the evening

The restaurant is located in the heart of the charming village of Espette, well known for its peppers. We propose a traditional Basque cuisine and work with local suppliers and producers. Beautiful covered terrace overlooking the garden, another one on the street side. The preparations are home-made, with love, by our Chef and his team. You can find on our menu, the local star: the Axoa of veal. We also offer local products for drinks: Irouleguy wine and brandies from Jean Brana, liqueurs from Egiazki, Akerbeltz craft beers. We welcome groups up to 70 people. Privatization for events.

Small traditional restaurant located in the main street of the village and offering family, local and seasonal cuisine. To welcome you an indoor room with bar and a small outdoor terrace overlooking the street. You will be able to taste our specialities: rib of beef, fish from the fish market of St Jean de Luz, hake risotto with ceps.

From the inevitable veal axoa to Espelette chilli pepper, Spanish hake, or other more personal proposals, you can choose between the tree-filled terrace with a breathtaking view of the summit of the Rhune or the warm and friendly room which has kept its authenticity Formula at 25 euros and card. Everything is homemade.

The hotel restaurant Chilhar is located in the heart of the village of Espelette, in the calm of a small typical street. The restaurant proposes you its card realized exclusively from fresh and local products. The home-made is the watchword of this establishment which leaves the place to the traditional cooking: piperade, chipirons, axoa of veal, Basque cake will be able to seduce you.

Former village bakery, transformed into a Brasserie Glacier. The old red brick oven brings an old-fashioned note to the retro-style room. The terrace of the brewery is in the heart of the village. The Brasserie provides a service from 8.30am to 7.30pm every day and offers fresh centrifuged fruit, Italian coffee, homemade pancakes, ice creams from the artisanal farm, Iberian and local charcuteries, paninis, sandwiches. Everything is cooked with local products.

Since 1873, the hotel restaurant Euzkadi has belonged to the same family. From a well-known inn, thanks to the large markets held every Wednesday in Espelette, the hotel restaurant has been transformed over the generations, and today boasts 27 rooms, a large dining room, a bar, a cellar and private parking. Today, the 5th generation of the family is constantly striving to combine tradition and modernity. Respectful of our heritage, our territory and our terroir. Proud to carry on and pass on the family heritage. In 2023, the company celebrates its 150th anniversary!

Camping Paradis Biper Gorri is located 1,500 km from the center of the village, near the forest of Lapitza, in a quiet and centennial green setting. A dynamic and friendly team will welcome you upon your arrival in a calm and centennial green setting between the sea and the mountains. The campsite offers you a heated swimming pool with balneotherapy and spa, a fitness room with sauna and hammam, playground, ping pong, games room, petanque and television room.

Recently renovated gîte fitted on the first floor of the owner's house, on a working farm (Espelette chilli peppers, corn...). Equipped kitchen, living room, lounge, 2 bedrooms (1 bed 160, 2 beds 90), shower room, wc. Heating by aerothermy included. Private terrace with garden furniture and barbecue. Nice view on the hills. Parking space. Situated 10min from Cambo-les-bains (fixed price for spa guests in low and mid season).

Very functional house of 120m ² located 1.5km from the center of the village of Espelette. The gîte is composed of a kitchen, a living room, a bathroom and 3 bedrooms. 2 double beds, 2 single beds, bath, shower, enclosed garden, terrace, garage, heating. Ideally located in a quiet area, the house offers a breathtaking view of the mountains. Dogs accepted under conditions.

Situated on a farm 3km from the village, this detached rental enjoys a privileged location in the quiet countryside. The gîte comprises a fully-equipped kitchen opening onto the living room, three bedrooms and a bathroom with walk-in shower. 3 double beds, shower, garden, terrace, parking, heating, air-conditioning. Beds made up on arrival. This rental is accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Nestled on the heights of the village of Espelette, at the bend of a small country road, come and discover Maison Irazabala. A soothing place, with a breathtaking view of the surrounding Basque mountains, for a stay in our image: relaxed, sporty and friendly Coming to Maison Irazabala is to choose to press pause, to take time for yourself in the Basque Country. You can easily explore the region and its many facets, following your instinct or our advice.

Apartment adjoining the owners' house. The rental is located on a farm 3km from the village. It comprises a kitchen opening onto a living room on the ground floor and 3 bedrooms with bathrooms on the first floor. 2 x 2-person beds, 2 x 1-person beds, shower, bath, balcony, garden, parking, heating, bed linen provided on request, telephone. Heating included in the price. Weekend rentals.

Small new 50m2 detached house on one level, close to the owner's house and another gîte, 1.5km from the village of Espelette. Quiet neighborhood on the edge of the forest, at the end of a dead-end road. The entire gîte is accessible and equipped for disabled people. Equipped kitchenette (fridge-freezer, microwave, induction hob, oven, dishwasher), living room, sitting area, 1 bedroom (1 x 160cm bed), shower room/wc. Reversible heating and air conditioning included. Bed made up on arrival, towels and household linen provided. Housework included. WIFI connection. Parking, private covered terrace with garden furniture and plancha. Garden with deckchairs. Outside storeroom (washing machine). Green up socket for recharging electric vehicle (extra charge). The gîte is ideally located for exploring the Basque Coast and inland.

Built on one level in an independent house near the owners, the gite is composed of an equipped kitchenette, a living room with a lounge area, a bedroom with a 160cm bed, a bathroom with integrated toilet, a storeroom with washing machine, garden, terrace, garden furniture, parking. Moreover a mezzanine with 2 beds 90 x 200 and reading corner are at your disposal Little extras that will make your life easier: the bed is made on your arrival, towels and household linen are provided, and floor heating is included Animals are not accepted.

Gîte fitted on one level, at the back of the owner's character house, without vis-à-vis. House located in a quiet area 2 km from the town of Espelette, at the end of a dead-end road, close to forests and offering a privileged view of the mountains. Equipped kitchenette (fridge-freezer, microwave, induction hob). Living room, lounge. 1 small bedroom (1 double bed), 1 large bedroom (1 double bed) Shower room/wc. Electric heating included. Sheets provided, beds made up, towels and household linen provided. WIFI connection. Parking space. Private garden not closed, private terrace, garden furniture. Warm atmosphere and careful decoration. Lodging 3/4 persons.

This house / villa of 60 m² (about 645 ft²), with a land size of 5 m² (about 0,00 acres) has 3 rooms including 2 bedrooms and 1 toilet. It has a separate kitchen and a parking lot. The independent kitchen is equipped with an oven, microwave, washing machine. The living room is equipped with a television and a sofa. The first bedroom has 1 bed in 140, the second: 2 beds in 90. Bathroom with shower and hairdryer. The toilets are separated from the sanitary facilities. Animals (dogs only) are welcome. The owner provides sheets on request. Outside: parking, garage, garden, terrace, barbecue and Plancha.