Tour of Labourd in the Basque Country (Pyrénées-Atlantiques)

Starting from Bayonne, a city of art and history, the trail first ventures into the lush green hinterland, following the Nive river toward Villefranque and the typical villages of Jatxou and Halsou, where red timber-framed houses and galleried churches tell of a centuries-old culture. After a spa stop in Cambo-les-Bains, hikers reach Sare, one of the most beautiful villages in France, nestled at the foot of La Rhune. The route then joins the border at Biriatou, offering spectacular panoramas of the Pyrenees chain before descending toward the Atlantic at Hendaye. The return north follows the majestic coastal path, where the shale cliffs of the Basque Corniche overlook the ocean. You will pass through Ciboure and the privateer city of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, famous for their heritage linked to the marriage of Louis XIV and whale hunting. The journey ends with the imperial elegance of Biarritz and the vast pine forests of Anglet.

Tour of Labourd in the Basque Country (Pyrénées-Atlantiques)

Labourd, the maritime province of the Basque Country, displays a perfect balance between the impetuosity of the Atlantic and the serenity of the first Pyrenean foothills. From Bayonne, a city of art and history with its Vauban ramparts, to the prestigious Biarritz, the coastline alternates between fine sand beaches and cliffs carved by sea spray. The architectural heritage is marked by "Basque red" and half-timbered facades, particularly in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, the corsair city that witnessed the marriage of Louis XIV. Heading inland, listed villages like Espelette or Sare reveal a deeply rooted pastoral and artisanal culture. Nature here is generous, dominated by the iconic silhouette of La Rhune, a sacred summit accessible by its vintage rack railway, offering a panoramic view of seven provinces. The rolling green hills, inhabited by Pottok ponies and Manech sheep, provide exceptional hiking terrain between oak forests and fern-covered moors. The coastal path offers a unique sensory experience, linking colorful harbors to the wild coves of the Abbadia estate.

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Tour of Labourd in the Basque Country (Pyrénées-Atlantiques) 2

Tour of Labourd in the Basque Country (Pyrénées-Atlantiques) 3

Distance: 134km, Maximum altitude: 558m, Minimum altitude: 1m, Total ascent: 3435m

Tour of Labourd in the Basque Country (Pyrénées-Atlantiques) 10 Nearby trails:
GR®10 The Great Traverse of the Pyrenees
GR®65 Via Podiensis
GR®78 Piedmont Way
GR®654 Vezelay Way
GR®655 Via Turonensis

It is advisable to follow the beacons all along your hike and to bring you the FFRandonnee topo-guide. You will also find information on MonGR.fr.

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Former holiday hotel with a garden along the Allier, L'Etoile Guest House is located in La Bastide-Puylaurent between Lozere, Ardeche, and the Cevennes in the mountains of Southern France. At the crossroads of GR®7, GR®70 Stevenson Path, GR®72, GR®700 Regordane Way, GR®470 Allier River springs and gorges, GRP® Cevenol, Ardechoise Mountains, Margeride. Numerous loop trails for hiking and one-day biking excursions. Ideal for a relaxing and hiking getaway.