Hendaye walks

If, relatively speaking, the Basque coast is sometimes compared to California, then Hendaye could be considered the counterpart to San Diego. From the Corniche to the old town of Hendaye, discover the Château d'Abbadia, the Pointe Sainte-Anne with its wild coastline, the long beaches bordering the Baie du Figuier and its Californian atmosphere, and the Baie de Chigoudy, which is the estuary of the Bidassoa and a very important natural area for migratory birds.

Meadows on pink cliffs. In the coves, the waves erode these pink cliffs, which continue to crumble into the sea. The moorland above the ocean, the cliffs and the pretty bay of Loya (Loïa) are unspoilt corners of nature thanks to the work of the Conservatoire du Littoral, which manages the area. It would appear that dogs are not allowed on the trail, even on a leash!

The typical, picturesque village of Fontarrabie is one of the region's finest examples of Basque-Spanish culture and architecture. With its facades of brightly-colored wood contrasting with the surrounding white, its pedestrian streets, ancient fortifications and cathedral, it's a Basque journey summed up in one town. Numerous cafés and "pintxos" bars line the route for a gastronomic break.

Plaiaundi Ecological Park is located in Irun, between the Bidassoa River, the Jaizubia Stream and Txingudi Bay. Inside the park, there is an interpretation centre providing information. There are numerous observation points along the route where you can watch the birds without disturbing them. There are also many information panels and benches. The park serves as a refuge for migratory birds due to its location at the foot of the Pyrenees. It has two saltwater lagoons and one freshwater lagoon. With virtually no elevation gain, it is a great place for a family outing.

Walk from the San Martial hermitage with panoramic views on both sides of the border.To be avoided during the hunting season, as the path is lined with pigeon shoots.

A short hike up Mont du Calvaire above Biriatou, with views of Xingudi Bay and the Basque coast.

Starting from Biriatou, climb Xoldoko Gaina and its tower. This hike takes you quickly up the Basque Coast, with views of La Rhune, the 3 Couronnes and the Côte d'Argent in the Bay of Biscay. The return journey is along the Bidassoa.

This half-day loop follows the coast from Cap Figuier to Artzu Portua, offering beautiful views of the sea and rocky ledge.The outward journey uses the GR®121, which runs along the coast, while the return is via a path that follows the contour lines, and is therefore flat and without difficulty.

Signposted loop on the SL-GI-1006 trail which passes at the foot of the Aitzondo waterfall and along the Irugurutzeta kilns. Apart from the incline at the start and the staircase to follow, the rest of the hike is a pleasant, mostly shaded walk with no major difficulties. The spectacle of the great waterfall is magnificent for those who manage to get close enough.

A pretty loop near the town of Irun to climb to the summit of San Martial, then on to the Ermita de San Martial with its exceptional view over the bay of Txingudi.Please note: due to the presence of numerous hunting posts, this hike should not be attempted during the pigeon hunting season.

Lovely loop overlooking the sea, near Hondarribia. The views are magnificent, both East and West.

Take advantage of a sunny day to picnic and enjoy this short family walk of about 8km. A bit of road with very little traffic, then a forest path, and then the descent to the ocean. You'll find coves, steep hills, sailing boats, cows, sheep and pottoks.Before or after your walk, don't forget to visit the chapel of Guadalupe and its view over the bay of Hendaye/Hondarribia and the mouth of the Bidassoa.

Starting from Guadalupe Chapel, enjoy a magnificent hike along the coast with its strange rocks carved out by the sea over millions of years! Then climb back up towards Jaïkibel to discover the coast from above.

A visit to this very special place where paramoudras can be observed. Plan to be at your destination at low tide for best viewing.

The entire route follows the ridge of the Jaizkibel, with beautiful views on both sides.Not recommended during dove hunting season.

A beautiful loop that climbs up to Xoldoko Gaina, then descends to the Col d'Osin (Osingo Lepoa), passes through the Col des Poiriers (Pitare), an area rich in monoliths, and returns along the side of Xoldo, skirting the lake.

Very close to the town of Irun, this route takes you into the heart of nature, where you can breathe in the fresh air far from the traffic. You will climb a small hill, but you will also learn a little history as you discover an ancient tower that was once used to defend the town of Irun.

A lovely little hike very close to the town of Irun, but taking place entirely in the woods. In addition to breathing in the fresh air, you will visit a historical site where you can see one of the two towers that remain today, which were used to defend the town of Irun.