Hendaye essentials

Hendaye sits at the mouth of the Bidasoa River, marking the border between France and Spain. This coastal town features the 19th-century neogothic Château d'Abbadia, designed by Viollet-le-Duc, and the expansive three-kilometer Ondarraitz beach. A regular ferry connects the French port to the medieval Spanish town of Hondarribia, home to the 10th-century Charles V Castle and well-preserved defensive walls. The town center showcases traditional Basque architecture, including the 16th-century Église Saint-Vincent and the former residence of writer Pierre Loti.

Hendaye Essentials — Map

Daniel Culsan / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Château d'Abbadia

The Château d'Abbadia, also Château d'Abbadie, is a neogothic château situated in Hendaye, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, France.

Zarateman / CC BY-SA 4.0

B

Hondarribia

A historic town across the Bidasoa River featuring a well-preserved medieval center, traditional Basque houses with colorful wooden balconies, and a renowned culinary scene.

C

Ondarraitz

A three-kilometer stretch of fine sand along the Atlantic coast, popular for surfing and swimming, offering views of the 'Les Deux Jumeaux' rock formations.

Zarateman / CC BY-SA 4.0

D

Charles V Castle

A 10th-century fortress overlooking the Bidasoa estuary, rebuilt in the 16th century for Emperor Charles V. It currently functions as a historic Parador hotel.

TRAILERS MUSEUM / CC BY-SA 4.0

E

Villa mauresque

A 19th-century residence built in the Moorish Revival style, featuring horseshoe arches and orientalist architectural elements. It is listed as a French historic monument.

F

Bateau Hendaye - Hondarribia

A regular maritime shuttle service crossing the Bidasoa River, providing a ten-minute transit between France and the Spanish town of Hondarribia.

G

Église Saint-Vincent

A 16th-century church built in the traditional Labourd Basque style, featuring characteristic tiered wooden galleries and a white-washed exterior.

H

Maison de Pierre Loti

The former home of French naval officer and novelist Pierre Loti. The 17th-century house reflects his connection to Basque culture and heritage.

Nicola / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

Hondarribia Defensive Walls and Gates

Fortified township which importance reaches to the Roman times. Visit its impressive walls and cramped old streets.

Jasagarra / CC BY-SA 4.0

J

Nuestra Sra. de la Asunción y del Manzano

A Gothic-style parish church built between the 15th and 16th centuries on the site of earlier Romanesque walls, featuring a prominent Baroque bell tower.

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