5 hikes to do in the Basque Country this summer!
Looking for nature, mountains, sea and fresh air? Here are a few ideas for walks and hikes during your camping vacation in the Basque Country.
The family circuit in Espelette (Itzulia Ttikia)
Looking for an easy hike to do with the kids in Espelette? Close to our 4-star Le Biper Gorri campsite, the family circuit (called Itzulia Ttikia) offers a lovely walk around the famous Basque village, between countryside, forest and lush green valleys. A chance to immerse yourself in the heart of the Basque countryside from the heights, and to discover its built heritage (the feudal castle of the Barons of Ezpeleta, the 17th-century church…). On the way, stop off at the farm to buy Espelette chilli pepper and ewe’s milk cheese direct from the producer.
- Distance: 7 km, altitude difference: 158 m, average time: 1h30, level of difficulty: very easy.
La Bergerie hill in Cambo-les-Bains
Leaving from Cambo-les-Bains, the famous spa and tourist resort of the Basque Country, set off to conquer the Bergerie hill. Formerly a private estate, this wooded area (17.5 ha) is now classified as a Sensitive Natural Area (ENS). Accessible to the general public, the itinerary follows the route of the GR 8, forming a small, easy, family-friendly, shady loop. From the heights, there’s a lovely view of the village rooftops, the Basque mountains (Atlzamendi, Ursuay, Mondarrain, La Rhune) and the village ofItxassou in the distance.
- Distance: 2.5 km, altitude difference: 80 m, average duration: 1 h 30, level of difficulty: very easy (yellow signposted trail)
The coastal path, from Bidart to Hendaye
Looking for the sea? Head for the coastal path along the cliffs of the Corniche Basque! From Bidart to Hendaye, the Basque coast unveils its finest assets, with the ocean and the Pyrenees as a backdrop. This legendary route offers great swimming opportunities on the Basque country’s most beautiful beaches in summer.
- Distance: 25 km, average duration: 5 to 6 hours, level of difficulty: medium.
The Atharri Circuit from Itxassou
A hike that’s neither too long nor too difficult in the Basque Piedmont from the picturesque village of Itxassou. You’ll discover the Pas de Roland road, which follows the gorges of the Nive to the Laxia district. A lovely walk along the mountainside to the Col d’Atharri, the highest point of the hike. Don’t miss: the hamlet of Laxia, with its old mill and washhouse, Pas de Roland, and the panoramic views of the Basque coast and Nive valley.
- Distance: 9 km, altitude difference: 410 m, average duration: 3 hours, level of difficulty: medium
The Rhune trail from Ascain
A great classic of hiking in the Basque Country! At 905 meters above sea level, on the French-Spanish border, the summit of La Rhune is the mythical mountain of the Basque Country. There are several routes up the Rhune from the villages ofAscain, Sare and Olhette, or from the Col de Saint-Ignace station.
The easiest hike starts in Ascain, from the Carrières parking lot, at 147 m altitude. Bring good shoes, water and a good level of fitness. The finish is tough, but you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Pyrenees and the Basque coast.
- Distance: 12 km, altitude difference: 800 m, average duration: 4 to 6 hours (round trip), level of difficulty: medium to difficult (yellow markings).
photo©Kindabreak.com