GERMAINY

These are three peaks, Bizkartzun, Zuhalmundi and Esnaur, clearly visible from Saint-Jean-de-Luz and located behind Ascain. Emblematic of the nearby hinterland, they each offer a superb 360° view of the coast, the Rhune and the Pyrenees further east. This route takes you up these peaks one after the other on an easy trail with steep sections, flat sections, scree, a bit of tarmac and dirt tracks, all in a stunning setting.

A circular route offering the chance to climb Bizkartzun, the iconic peak of the Saint-Jean-de-Luz hinterland, before exploring the hills and valleys near Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle, which feature steep sections best tackled in dry weather. You can enjoy a beautiful view of Bizkartzun, followed by a peaceful atmosphere amidst a rolling, bucolic landscape.

Did you know that a tramway used to run through the hinterland from the coast (Hendaye, Ciboure) to Sare via Ascain? That was before the car became popular in 1936. This hike takes you along its route, based on available archives. The landscape has preserved the memory of this journey, which you can discover during this excursion under the watchful eye of Mont Esnaur.

What more could you ask for in the coastal area of the Southern Basque Country: mountainous landscape, granite terrain and a ridge path! The Three Crowns massif offers three peaks to explore. We will start this route with Erroilbide, then Txurrumurru and finally Irumugarrieta. The view is magnificent, with a 360° panorama of the Southern Basque Country and the Labour coastline stretching as far as the Landes. The route along the ridge includes passages, in couloirs and on slabs, which must be negotiated with caution.Some passages require the use of your hands. There is a fixed ring on the ascent to Txurrumurru. Not suitable for those who suffer from vertigo.

This is the ideal route for tackling La Rhune in winter or on a cool day in mid-season. Indeed, much of this hike faces south and is sheltered from the north wind. Whilst the ascent is steep, the descent will also leave you with pleasant memories, over grassy terrain with few stones. In any case, your efforts will be rewarded by the unforgettable view from the summit of La Rhune. Depending on the time of year, you may even be able to enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat in one of the summit huts (closed in winter). On the way up, you’ll come across a magnificent cromlech, a prehistoric Basque monument and a sacred burial site.