Explore Ascain with Camping Zelaia

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

If the old oak of the Mulets track could talk, they would have many stories to tell the customs officers! Between Herboure and the Ibardin pass, they have seen dozens of traders and smugglers who used this old path day and night. The mules carried heavy loads on their back, the men were careful to avoid the controls. The route starts halfway up the Ibardin pass and, after enjoying the wide views of the coastline from the Aire Leku plateau, it winds its way through groves and clearings to find the start of the Mulets track. Head for the Ibardin pass, along a path, sheltered from view and the summer heat under the foliage of the Andureta valley. An original way to reach the Ibardin pass on foot, and why not do some shopping there.

If the old oaks of the Mule Trail could talk, they would have many stories to tell the customs officers! Between Herboure and the Ibardin pass, they have seen dozens of traders, smugglers and smugglers, who used this old path in the past, day and night. The mules carried the heavy loads on their backs, the men were careful to avoid the controls. The route starts halfway up the Ibardin Pass and, after enjoying the wide views of the coastline from the Aire Leku plateau, it winds its way through groves and clearings to find the start of the Mule Trail. Head for the Ibardin Pass, along a path sheltered from view and the summer heat under the foliage of the Andureta valley. An original way to reach the Ibardin pass on foot, and why not do some shopping there.

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.

Cycle path along the RD810, linking the centre of the village of Urrugne to the beach at Socoa.

Popular for its ventas and other Sunday shopping, the Ibardin pass is also the starting point for easy and scenic walks along the Atlantic coast. One of them consists of a visit to the Xoldokogaina lake, and can reasonably be done with the family. As most of the climb is concentrated at the beginning of the walk, it is advisable to adopt a modest pace to reach the highest venta and then the path to the slopes of Manddale. The view is already very wide and encourages contemplative breaks. At the bend of a copse of conifers, the whole Xoldokogaina massif comes into view, a complex of shaded moors and valleys, a real paradise for pottok! It's time for the big descent to the lake, where you can take a break in the shade of hundred-year-old oaks.

Apartment 5 persons with mountain view, located on the road to the Col d'Ibardin pass and then a few meters from the start of the Rhune trail. This furnished apartment contains 2 bedrooms with a bed 140 in the first one then 1 bed 90 and 1 bed 140 in the second one. Take advantage of the garden with its garden furniture to relax and enjoy the good weather. Independent entrance.

Authentic Basque farmhouse of the XVIII° century, restored, at the foot of the Rhune, and 2 steps from the ocean, in a magical setting, on the hiking trails, the guest house Manttu Baita welcomes you to make you discover the beauty of the Basque Country. It has 5 guest rooms including 4 on the ground floor and 1 family room. Breakfasts are served in the old cowshed or on the terrace facing La Rhune. The swimming corridor (12m x 3m) heated, the SPA (5 places) are arranged in an annex building, for an annual use. Possibility of massages by a professional.

Gite fitted out on the first floor of the owners' house, also including guest rooms, at the foot of the Rhune, mythical summit of the Basque Country. Living room, equipped kitchenette (dishwasher, induction cooker, oven and microwave, fridge-freezer), living room (TV), 2 bedrooms (1 bed 160, 2 beds 90), shower room (washing machine with dryer), toilet. Beds made for the arrival, towels provided. Electric heating included. Internet connection. Terrace, garden furniture, barbecue. Private parking in the yard. A wellness area is available for the gite and the guest rooms of the property: a heated swimming corridor (12x3), a 5-seat jacuzzi, and a solarium. A service by a certified masseuse is possible on the spot.

Located 10 minutes from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, close to the ocean and the mountains, this apartment is the ideal place for mountain lovers, the hiking trails being accessible from the house. On the 1st floor, the apartment is accessed from the balcony. It has a modern kitchen open to the living room, and two pleasant bedrooms. Thanks to its south orientation, the apartment is bathed in light and offers a beautiful view of the mountains.

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.

Situated in the heart of the Basque Country, 10 minutes from the beaches, Spain and Saint-Jean-de Luz, this 300m² architect-designed villa with swimming pool and breathtaking views of the Rhune offers a host of possibilities for private spaces, including small terraces on each level and communal areas for conviviality, including the large 80m² living room with its open kitchen! Different rental configurations available on request: the whole house with 6 bedrooms / sleeps 12, or the ground floor and ground floor with 5 bedrooms / sleeps 8 to 10, or the ground floor with 4 bedrooms / sleeps 6 to 8.

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.

Located in a house of character, on the valley facing the Rhune, 5 minutes from the Golf de la Nivelle, Saint Jean de Luz and 7 minutes from the beaches of Socoa and Saint Jean de Luz. Two spacious rooms of 20 m² each with terrace giving on a magnificent 360° view on the countryside, the mountain and the sea. Large dressing room. Each room has a bathroom or shower room adjoining the room with shower. Independent WC. Large luxuriant garden with many varieties of plants and trees. Heated swimming pool. Bath towels available for the pool. Very quiet environment.

Large Basque house facing the Rhune, entirely renovated with its swimming pool and its garden of 2500m2 located in a quiet environment, in the countryside, 10 minutes from the beaches, Spain, Saint Jean de Luz and 30 minutes from Biarritz. Ideal for a large family or a group of friends. 4 bedrooms and a large dormitory that can accommodate 14 people and 2 babies. This house classified 3 stars of 185 m² also includes a large veranda, named TXOKO in Basque, which can accommodate a large table. The living room with fireplace offers a TV with cable subscription. Large open plan kitchen with a central island. It also includes a complete household appliance. 3 bathrooms are available. Complete childcare equipment for babies. The terrace overlooks a swimming pool with garden furniture and barbecue. Private parking with enclosed garden. Wifi available.

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.

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.

Fully renovated 17th century Basque farmhouse located on the Napoleon trail between Ascain and Urrugne. 5 guest rooms with Italian shower. A reception room of 160 m2 with a mezzanine of 45 m2 which can receive 150 persons seated: - A professional and spacious equipped kitchen. - A bar overlooking the terrace with an awning. - A 160 m2 terrace with a view on the mountains and corn fields where a tent can be set up for receptions of more than 150 people. - 1 cloakroom - 2 toilets, one of which meets the standards for disabled people. - Large private car park. - Wifi access.

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 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".

On the mule track, deep erosion marks in the rocky slabs leave no doubt that this path was once heavily used by travellers, traders and smugglers, so much so that the wheels of the carts are still carved in the stone. For the record, the novel Ramuntcho by Pierre Loti, written in Ascain, recounts these smugglers’ stories.

Discovery and enrichment around the book, image and sound! Books, reviews, magazines, DVDs, CDs, digital documents, on-site consultations, loans, computer portal.

With an astonishing rectilinear low wall in the middle of a flat area, this site bears witness to the ancient exploitation of the mountain’s resources. This plateau is known as the “Quai des Carriers”, a former loading area for stones from extraction sites. There a many explanatory panels on the circuit.

When it's time to eat...served lunch and dinner, weekdays and weekends. At A la Carte, you'll discover simple, carefully prepared traditional cuisine with a personal touch. To enjoy your meal at your leisure, you can choose between the dining room, with its sober, refined decor, or the terrace under the plane trees.

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.

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.

Pizzeria to take away in the centre of the village.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Pizzas, a la carte dishes.

In the heart of the Basque Country, at the foot of the high massif "La Rhune" and 10 minutes from the ocean, discover the garden campsite Zelaia**** at 2km from the center of the village of Ascain. In a setting of 2.5 hectares of greenery, discover our chalets and our recent mobile homes. Each one has a private outdoor space with a terrace to enjoy the landscape. Our establishment does not offer bare pitches. Come and stay comfortably in a natural campsite with a friendly and family atmosphere. From the heated swimming pool to the snack bar.

Apartment 5 persons with mountain view, located on the road to the Col d'Ibardin pass and then a few meters from the start of the Rhune trail. This furnished apartment contains 2 bedrooms with a bed 140 in the first one then 1 bed 90 and 1 bed 140 in the second one. Take advantage of the garden with its garden furniture to relax and enjoy the good weather. Independent entrance.

This small and charming air-conditioned hotel, which has been recently renovated, is located at the foot of the Rhune mountain and is the perfect base for a relaxing holiday. High-quality traditional cuisine enhanced by personal touches.

The large apartment of 58 m² is located in a rural area at the foot of the Rhune mountain. Ideally located at the start of hiking trails such as the GR10. Installed in a new house, it is a duplex with garden, fireplace, fully equipped to accommodate 4 people. The rental has a large living room, 2 bedrooms and a bathroom.

Pretty gîte on one level, adjoining the owner's house in a quiet area (dead-end street). Equipped kitchen area, l.linge. dining area, sitting area (TV coul.). 1 bedroom (1 bed 2 pers. S. of water. Wc. Elect. heating in suppl. Private terrace. Garden furniture. Large common shaded area (garden furniture, river access). Parking space. Sheets, towels and household linen provided. Possibility of extra bed for a child (sofa).

In the Olhette area of Urrugne, a 90m2 ground floor apartment in a quiet Basque Labourdine farmhouse. It is located 10 minutes from Saint-Jean-de-Luz and 16 minutes from Hendaye, at the foot of the Ibardin pass and the Rhune for 4 people You will find a fully equipped kitchen, open on the dining room and the living room. The kitchen includes a gas hob, a hood, a dishwasher, a coffee machine, a toaster, a fridge, an oven and a microwave. The living room has a TV and DVD player. Bathroom with Italian shower and separate toilet. A storeroom is available. A washing machine is available. Wifi access. The 1st bedroom has a double bed (140 cm) and a wardrobe. The 2nd bedroom has 2 single beds (90 cm), and a large wardrobe. Covered terrace with garden furniture. Baby equipment available on request.

Authentic Basque farmhouse of the XVIII° century, restored, at the foot of the Rhune, and 2 steps from the ocean, in a magical setting, on the hiking trails, the guest house Manttu Baita welcomes you to make you discover the beauty of the Basque Country. It has 5 guest rooms including 4 on the ground floor and 1 family room. Breakfasts are served in the old cowshed or on the terrace facing La Rhune. The swimming corridor (12m x 3m) heated, the SPA (5 places) are arranged in an annex building, for an annual use. Possibility of massages by a professional.

Gite fitted out on the first floor of the owners' house, also including guest rooms, at the foot of the Rhune, mythical summit of the Basque Country. Living room, equipped kitchenette (dishwasher, induction cooker, oven and microwave, fridge-freezer), living room (TV), 2 bedrooms (1 bed 160, 2 beds 90), shower room (washing machine with dryer), toilet. Beds made for the arrival, towels provided. Electric heating included. Internet connection. Terrace, garden furniture, barbecue. Private parking in the yard. A wellness area is available for the gite and the guest rooms of the property: a heated swimming corridor (12x3), a 5-seat jacuzzi, and a solarium. A service by a certified masseuse is possible on the spot.