Green, dynamic and full of character, the Basque coast is a breath of fresh air. Located in an exceptional setting, Hendaye is a commune in the French Basque Country. It lies at the south-western tip of France. In fact, it is the last coastal town before Spain. In fact, it’s a very old fishing port, and the third-largest yachting harbor in Aquitaine.
Hendaye, an exceptional border town in the Basque Country
First of all, the seaside resort of Hendaye offers visitors over 3 kilometers of fine sandy beach. This is the longest beach on the Basque coast. It is surrounded by the peaks of La Rhune, Les Trois Couronnes and Jaizquibel.
From Socoa to the entrance to Hendaye, the road offers the most beautiful panorama of the Atlantic coast. They are wild and authentic and accessible on foot. These are kilometers of coastal hiking from Bidart to Hendaye. These paths are dotted with signposts and interpretation stations. The route de la Corniche is also home to the neo-Gothic Château d’Abbadia and the estate of the same name.
Don’t forget to take a stroll to Biriatou: a small village near Hendaye with freely accessible paths and tracks. From the top of Choldokogaina, you’ll have a superb view of the Landes coast, La Rhune and even San Sebastian. From the church in Biriatou, head east towards the Rocher des Perdrix and the Col d’Osin, then down towards the Chemin de Lizarlan to the Ruisseau de la Lancette.
Sights not to be missed
A trip to Hendaye wouldn’t be complete without a ride on the little train. To discover the town of Hendaye and its heritage, the little train runs from April to the end of the All Saints’ Day vacations. A 30-minute tour is a great way to discover the town. You’ll go from the beach to the town via the port on a very pleasant tour in four languages.
With its two bodies of water, the Bay of Txingudi and the Atlantic Ocean, Hendaye offers a wide range of water sports. This famous bay is a protected natural site. It is a resting place for migratory birds and seabirds. It’s also a paradise for budding surfers.
At the end of its more than 3 kilometers of beach, two large rocks called “the twins” appear. They are located in the sea, visible from Hondarribia and from the top of the Abbadia estate. Indeed, they are often depicted in images of the Basque coast. These two emblematic pink limestone rocks are the natural witnesses of marine erosion. They are the symbols of Hendaye and are accessible all year round.
Find more interesting facts about Foie Gras and the Basque Country on our Blog and tasty recipes in the Recipe section of our website!
