Bidart, a trip to a typical Basque village

Just a short distance from Biarritz lies a charming village nestled by the sea: Bidart. Less well-known than Biarritz, Bidart is nonetheless a delightful stop for visitors wishing to explore the Basque coast : typical architecture, a rich history, lively squares, and sporting activities for everyone!

A hike on the coastal path

Bidart is the starting point of the superb coastal path that runs along 25km of breathtaking coastline (in a figurative sense only, rest assured!). It connects Bidart to Hendaye via a well-maintained path that sometimes winds through nature and sometimes through towns. It's a chance to appreciate the magnificent towns of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Ciboure, Urrugne…

Taking this path means admiring the beauty of the Basque landscapes and learning more about geology, waves, fishing, etc. thanks to signs scattered along the route.

The natural site of the Erretegia moors and its beach

Sporting getaway to Bidart, between beach and nature

In addition to the numerous hikes offering superb views of the sea and mountains, you can also enjoy various sports activities while taking in the scenery! So go for it!

• Catch a wave while surfing. Are you a beginner? Why not learn or improve your skills at one of the surf schools in the area?
• Go quad biking with your friends for guaranteed thrills!

In Bidart, you can even take lessons in a friendly atmosphere with Ona Pilota!

All year round, in Bidart, you can go to the beach ; it's even one of the main attractions of this charming town. There are six beaches in Bidart (from north to south):

• Ilbarritz beach : it 's the one bordering Biarritz, easily accessible. Swim at this family-friendly beach with the magnificent Ilbarritz castle watching over you...
  
• Pavillon Royal beach : ideal for discovering marine life among its rocks. It's a wild beach, not always easy to access, but prized for its natural atmosphere.
  
• Erretegia beach : the one at the start of the famous coastal path. Perfect for surfing. Parking isn't easy, but its unique character will charm you!
  
• The Centre beach : as its name suggests, it is the closest to the centre of the village and the one where families like to go.
  
• Uhabia beach : easy access parking and with Handiplage with tiralos available in summer (note that in season, there are few places), it is served by a shuttle from the village and is crossed by the river of the same name.
  
• Parlementia beach : bordering Guéthary, it is bordered by the Sentier des Baleines (Whale Trail). It remains a rather secluded beach, being far from the town center and not easily accessible; it's perfect for walks at low tide (as there's very little sand at high tide).
  

exploring the center of Bidart

I loved strolling around Place Sauveur Atchoarena. From every angle, you can admire the beautiful white and red Basque buildings, an unobstructed view of the surrounding mountains, and the town's lovely pelota court. When the sun is shining, the square comes alive, and food lovers gather on the many restaurant terraces. It's also in this square that the market takes place every Saturday morning. If you're in the area, don't miss it to stock up on regional products !

For the rest of the week, you can shop at the enticing Etxe store. Peio offers a wide variety of Basque specialties: wines, cheeses, cured meats, Espelette pepper… you won’t be able to leave empty-handed!

The most beautiful viewpoint in Bidart

Just 200 meters from the lively Place Sauveur Atchoarena, lies a little slice of paradise offering breathtaking ocean views. People come here not only to admire the view but also to enjoy the serenity of the place. Perched atop the cliff, overlooking the sea, the Sainte-Madeleine Chapel was built in the 1800s to protect sailors on their whale-hunting voyages. It is also a place of pilgrimage on the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago).

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