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Sporting & Leisure Activities In Saint Jean de Luz

 

Swimming Pool
Route d’Ascain, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 261515. Email: piscine-saintjeandeluz@carilis.fr  www.carilis.fr
Saint Jean de Luz has a pool with a water park that is great for families and children. Keen swimmers can churn out the lengths in the large 25m sport pool while those looking for a refreshing dip and a bit of splashing around can enjoy the 35m and 56m long spiral slides! The pool has a dedicated paddling area for the very young along with a well-being area for those who need a bit of pampering. You can take part in anything from aqua gym to aqua biking as well as a host of other water based activities. So if it's exertion, relaxation or just plain old fun, the pool has all the bases covered to keep the family happy.
Open: All year
Price: Adult/ €4.30, Child /€3.30

Joacasino
Place Maurice Ravel, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 515858. www.joa.fr
For those who fancy their chances and a flutter why not head to the casino in Saint Jean de Luz? Kids and adults alike can have fun playing the slot machines. It's also a great place to have lunch, with beautiful views over the bay. In the evening the tables open up for the real gamblers. Will you be buying champagne to celebrate or drowning your sorrows with a solitary glass of red (assuming you have enough left in your pocket to buy one)!

Cinéma Le Sélect
29 Boulevard Victor Hugo, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 858084. Email: contact@cineluz.fr . www.cineluz.fr
Cinéma Le Sélect offers 4 air-conditioned theatres where you can watch anything from national and international blockbuster to art house and kids movies. The cinema is located in the heart of Saint Jean de Luz, and there are usually 3-4 screenings each day. Check the website for listings.

Luzi Park
ZA Jalday, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 231974
What do you do when the kids are bored and the weather isn't so great? Maybe head over to Luzi Park which is an indoor playground for children of ages up to 12 years old. The playground is open all year round and has heating and air conditioning so it's never too hot or too cold. Children can enjoy the various activities: ball pool, maze, slide, trampoline, mini disco, Play & Learn construction. Celebrating a special day? There is a space dedicated to birthdays. There is also a snack bar on site where you and the kids can grab a nibble.

Canoeing and Kayaking
Aquabalade, Base de Muntxola, D-918 Route d'Ascain, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)662 580997. Email: aquabalade@gmail.com . www.aquabalade.com
Why not take a look at the surrounding area from a different perspective and rent a canoe or kayak. Groups and individuals of all abilities can discover the rivers and estuary that head out into the Bay of Biscay. There are a range of itineraries and rental options available.
Availability and Prices: www.aquabalade.com/tarifs.html

Quad Biking
Quad é Nature, ZI de Jalday 2, 161 Rue Belharra, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 261149/+33(0)610 795774. Email: quadenature@gmail.com . www.quadenature.com
Another unique and fun way to get a different perspective of the Basque Country in and around Saint Jean de Luz is to head out on a quad bike. Groups and individuals of all abilities can discover this varied terrain that stretches from the mountains to the sea shore. There are a wide range of options from 1 to 2 hours, to half and full day sessions or even 2 whole days of exploring by quad! Anyone who has a motorcycle or car license can drive the quad and prices start from as little as €35. If you don't have a license then you can hop on the back of someone who does as there is space on board for 2! All the excursions are led by professional certified guides who are trained in first aid. It certainly is a quick and fun way to discover the beautiful Basque countryside with stunning views of La Rhûne - the mythical Basque mountain - and the amazing plateaus with the ocean for a backdrop!
Availability and Prices: www.quadenature.com/tarifs-randonnees-quad-pays-basque/

Cycling
Cyclo Station, 21 Rue Sopite, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)336 631424/+33(0)663 142440. Email: cyclostation64@gmail.com www.cyclostation64.e-monsite.com 
Cycling is a great way to discover the Basque Country around Saint Jean de Luz as you can get to parts that are inaccessible to cars. Cycle along the Basque coast and discover hidden coves and quiet beaches, the crashing waves of the Bay of Biscay as your soundtrack. With CycloStatio you don't even have the hassle of picking up your rental bikes - they will deliver them, free of charge to your accommodation. They have a range of cycles to suit all sizes so families and groups are well catered for. Why not follow the 'Smuggler's Route' or the coastal path from Saint Jean de Luz to Hendaye on the Spanish border where the Treaty of the Pyrenees was struck?
Itineraries: www.Saint Jean de Luz.com/fr/syndication/randonnees
Availability and Prices: www.cyclostation64.e-monsite.com/medias/images/recto-1-3.jpg

Surfing
Just like the nearby Biarritz, Saint Jean de Luz is a popular destination for the surfing fraternity. For experienced surfers, there are numerous locations to get a fix on the ocean waves. Plage de Lafiténia is a surfer’s paradise! Located in the Acotz district of town, this beach is popular with experienced surfers who come here to ride the big waves to the left of the rocks. For those less experienced and wanting to dip their toe in the water, there are a number of surfing schools which offer courses for all levels of ability. Plage de Cénitz is perfect for surfing beginners; though the beach is suitable for surfers of all levels, allowing surfers to ride the waves on either side of the beach. Most of the schools use minibuses to allow them to access different beaches, depending on the weather conditions and surfing ability of participants. So why not try your hand at surfing, longboarding and body boarding. There are day, weekend and week-long courses available with state certified instructors.

Ecole de Surf de Guéthary/Bidart, Original Wear, Rue du 14 Juillet, 64500 Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)608 688854. Mail: surf.guethary@wanadoo.fr .

Ecole de Surf New School, Billabong Surf Shop, 16 rue Gambetta, 64500 Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 260793/+33(0)689 333554. Mail: frank.geledan@orange.fr  www.newschoolsurf.com

Surf School Gold Coast, Boutique Chica Beach, 62 rue Gambetta, 64500 Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 203144/+33(0)670 620707. Mail: contact@ecolesurfhendaye.com . www.ecoledesurfhendaye.com

Ecole de Surf Bakun, Magasin Marigorri, 14 rue Gambetta, 64500 Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)607 080934/+33(0)699 326464/+33(0)660 960609. Mail: bakunsurf@gmail.com . . www.bakunsurf.com/

Ecole de Surf H2O, Magasin O'Neill, 78 Rue Gambetta, 64500 Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 262707/+33(0)649 987726. Mail: contact@ecoledesurf-h2o.com . www.ecoledesurf-h2o.com

Scuba Diving
The Basque coast is rich in flora and fauna even on the seabed of the Bay of Biscay, close to the Spanish border. Here beginners and experienced divers alike, can explore this underwater kingdom. Everything from initiation dives to discovery dives and exploration dives and wreck dives and night dives is offered. Some suppliers can accommodate disabled divers. All equipment is provided. It’s the perfect way to cool off from the heat of the sun and discover something from another world.

Odyssée Bleue Socoa, Hangar 4, Chemin des Blocs, 64500 CIBOURE. Tel: +33(0)663 541363. Mail: odysseebleuesocoa@live.fr . www.odyssee-bleue.com

Tech Océan, Port de Socoa, 45 Avenue du Commandant Passicot, 64500 CIBOURE. Tel: +33(0)616 361176. Mail: contact@tech-ocean.fr  www.tech-ocean.fr

Atlantika 64, Résidence A. Portu Ondoan, 18 Rue Koxe Basurco, 64500 CIBOURE. Tel: +33(0)559 512366. Mail: atlantika64@gmail.com . www.plongee-paysbasque.com

Boating and Sailing
Whether you want to charter your own boat, cruise around the Bay, learn how to sail or hone those Olympic sailing skills, there is something to whet (pardon the pun) everyone's appetite in Saint Jean de Luz. There are lots of suppliers who provide 'off the peg' and tailor-made activities that allow you to get out and test yourself on these challenging waters.

Okiba, 33 Av. du Cdt Passicot, Socoa, 64500 Ciboure. Tel: +33(0)540 075676. Mail: info@okiba.fr . www.okiba.fr

EVI Nautika Ecole de Voile Internationale, Parking de Socoa, Socoa, 64500 Ciboure. Tel: +33(0)559 470632/+33(0)672 635157. Mail: contact@evi-nautika.com . www.evi-nautika.com

Ecole de voile Yacht Club Basque, Parking des Dériveurs, Socoa, 64500 Ciboure. Tel: +33(0)559 471831. Mail: yachtclubbasque@gmail.com , contact@ycbasque.org . http://www.ycbasque.org

Thalassotherapy
Thalassotherapy in Saint Jean de Luz dates back to the 18th century when doctors recommended that the ocean at Saint Jean de Luz had therapeutic properties, inspiring patients to make pilgrimages to the beach for alleged cures for their ailments. The sea still plays an active role in the success and appeal of the town today through the continuation of thalassotherapy treatments. Louison Bobet, the famous French Tour de France champion created the thalassotherapy concept in the seventies after he became badly injured in a car crash. He was convinced of the benefits which a maritime climate and sea water brought to the human body - in thalassotherapy, trace elements of magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium, and iodide found in seawater are believed to be absorbed through the skin. The centre he created still exists in nearby Biarritz, and its long tradition of marine therapy has been adopted by other towns such as Saint Jean de Luz. There are several thalassotherapy centres in and around Saint Jean de Luz that offer customised treatments and therapies to meet each client's needs, including seaweed body wrap, body sculpting, relaxation, massages, body scrubs, Balneotherapy, beauty treatments, post-surgery therapy, post-natal care and even treatments to combat smoking and stress.

Thalazur Parcours Marin, Place Maurice Ravel, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 515133. Email: spa@helianthal.fr . www.helianthal.fr

Thalazur Thalassothérapie, Place Maurice Ravel, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 515151. Email: saintjeandeluz@thalazur.fr . www.thalazur.fr

Loreamar Thalasso Spa, Grand Hôtel, 43 Boulevard Thiers, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 263536. Email: reservation@luzgrandhotel.fr . www.luzgrandhotel.fr

Golf
Saint Jean de Luz has 10 courses within a 50km radius and its mild climate allows you to play golf all the year round. A prime golfing destination, Saint Jean de Luz boasts two golf courses (Golf de la Nivelle and Golf de Chantaco). The Chantaco course was designed by renowned British architect Harry Colt. Through the marriage of Simone Thion Thatch, golf champion, with tennis champion René Lacoste, the Chantaco golf course became very famous and was attended by many celebrities. Arnaud Massy, considered one of France's most successful professional golfers, gave a major boost to the sport in the area and the creation of the course. Born in Biarritz, Massy was the first non-Brit to win the Open Championship in 1907! He was also the only golfer from Continental Europe to win a men's major championship before Seve Ballesteros won The Open Championship in 1979. For those intending on playing more than one course during their stay, the 'Golf Pass Biarritz Côte Basque' is a great idea and gives you access to preferential rates for four courses of the Côte Basque au Sud des Landes.

Golf de la Nivelle, Place William Sharp, 64500, Ciboure. Tel: +33(0)559 471899. . www.golfnivelle.com

Golf de Chantaco, 500 Route d’Ascain, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 261422. www.chantaco.com
 
Beach Club Le Sporting
Grande plage de Saint Jean de Luz, Face au Grand Hôtel, 64500, Saint-Jean-De-Luz. Tel: +33(0)622 660975/+33(0)662 897642. www.club-sporting.com . Email: sebastien.hiriart@free.fr , nathbs@club-internet.fr
The beach club is open every day from early July to late August (except Sunday) and welcomes children from the age of 3 years old. The club offers a host of recreational and sporting activities such as gymnastics, volleyball, supervised swimming, various games and competitions. A fully qualified lifeguard is on hand to give private swimming lessons.
Price and availability: www.club-sporting.com/

Beach Club Les Trois Couronnes Mickey
Grande Plage, 64500, Saint-Jean-De-Luz. Tel: +33(0)562 350244/+33(0)669 003044
Facing towards the bay of Saint Jean De Luz, the beach club 'Three Crowns Mickey' is located on the main beach and offers many creative and sports related activities. Children from the age of 3 years old can chose from 5 slides, swings, a play area, ropes, table tennis and volleyball to name but a few of the activities. The beach club is run by certified instructors and individual swimming lessons are provided by fully qualified lifeguards.
Open: 1st July - 31st August, Everyday 09:30 - 13h30 and 15:30 - 19:00 (Closed Sunday)
Price: Check locally

Bidaparc
Plage Uhabia, Bidart. Tel: +33(0)559 221566. www.bidaparc.com
Bid'a Park is a secure amusement park with that covers an area of approximately 8000m². It features a tropical garden which is a great place for relaxing and a mega park which consists of water games, inflatables, a carousel, zip line, trampolines and even a small farm where children can interact with the animals. On hot days you can cool off with the 'misting stations' that send out a cooling 'mist' of water. All you need to remember is to bring your swimsuit!

Price and availability: www.bidaparc.com/horaires-et-tarifs.php

Ibardin Aventure Park
Col d’Ibardin, D404 Route du col d'Ibardin, 64122, Urrugne. Tel: +33(0)786 325683. www.ibardin-aventures.com
Ibardin Adventures welcomes everyone from the smallest to the largest! One of the newest forest adventure parks in the Basque Country, it’s great for a fun filled day with family and friends set in the beautiful location of Col Ibardin. There is everything from a monkey bridge and tree climbing to trampolines and orienteering at this eco-park adventure playground. Just remember to bring your head for heights and a sense of balance!

Price and availability: www.ibardin-aventures.com/horaires-et-tarifs.html

Treetop Outdoor Activity Park
Parc d’Aventures & Paintball Oihana, Route de la Glacière, 64122, Urrugne. Tel: +33(0)603 405231. www.oihana-64.com . Email: info@oihana-64.com
Welcome to the highest Forest Freestyle Adventure Park of the Basque coast, with raised courses ranging from 3m to 20m in the trees and varying degrees of difficulty. Children and adults alike will go giddy on this one – literally. Take to the heights of the treetops discovering different methods to cross from one tree to the next using swings, rope bridges and zip cords. Great fun for all the family - especially those who love being high up in the trees. You'll need about 2.5 hours to complete the full adult course and full equipment and a safety briefing is provided.

Price and availability: www.oihana-64.com/rates-and-schedules/?lang=en

Paintballing
Parc d’Aventures & Paintball Oihana, Route de la Glacière, 64122, Urrugne. Tel: +33(0)603 405231. www.oihana-64.com . Email: info@oihana-64.com
Away on holiday with a bunch of friends? Bored of the beach already? Why not take to the woods for some intensely satisfying paintball action? You'll be given protective masks and a paintball launcher that propels the .68 calibre capsules of biodegradable, non-toxic paint through the air in the direction of your enemy! With and area of over 1000m2, it's a game of strategy and skill lying somewhere between dodge ball and chess! Kids from the age of 7 can play using a slightly different format to that of the adults only game. Children from the age of 12 can join in with the adults.

Price and availability: www.oihana-64.com/rates-and-schedules/?lang=en

Boat cruises
Port de Saint-Jean-de-Luz, 64500, Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Tel: +33(0)609 ​​736181. Email: luzcroisiere@gmail.com  www.croisiere-saintjeandeluz.com
Fancy a cruise along the Basque Corniche to the port of Hondarribia (Spain) or a panoramic sail along the Basque Coast to Biarritz and beyond with the Pyrenees as your backdrop? There are lots of boat cruise options to choose from, allowing you to discover the beautiful coastal terrain from another perspective. You can discover the Bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Flysh cliffs, Loya Bay, Hendaye Beach and the river Bidasoa estuary which forms the border between France and Spain, along with the small fishing port of Hondarribia (see Culture & Heritage Sights nearby), Cape Higuier and its lighthouse. You can even try your hand at sea fishing where you are likely to catch anything from sea bass and sea bream to scorpion fish and octopus!

Price and availability: www.croisiere-saintjeandeluz.com/fr/croisiere

Le Petit Train de Saint Jean de Luz
Tel: +33(0)559 419694/+33(0)685 707285. Email: train-saint-jean-de-luz@wanadoo.fr  www.petit-train-saint-jean-de-luz.com
Walking in the heat of the day can be tiring, even at sea level! So why not do your sightseeing aboard the Petit Train de Saint Jean de Luz? The little white train with its Basque trim of red and green is the perfect way to explore the old town and its history as it weaves through the narrow streets lined with farmhouses. The pickup point is the roundabout at the old port and each tour lasts approx. 1 hour. Tour is given in multiple languages, English included.

Price and availability: www.petit-train-saint-jean-de-luz.com/3.html

 

Culture & Heritage In Saint Jean de Luz

 

Maison Joanoenea
1 Rue de l' Infante, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 263682
Built alongside the Quai de L'Infante around 1640, the beautiful Italianate Villa of 'Maison Joanoenea' overlooks the colourful harbour and has a royal past. It is here that the Queen Mother, Anne of Austria, stayed before the marriage of Louis XIV to Maria Theresa, the Infanta of Spain on 8 May 1660. The Infanta stayed there on 7 June of the same year. Locally this house is referred to as the 'Maison de l'Infante,' and is now a popular tourist attraction and museum.

Price: Adult €2.50, Child €2

Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Rue Gambetta, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 260881
One of the important historical monuments of Saint Jean de Luz, the Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste is dominated by an imposing bell tower which rises up to 35m. It is here that Louis XIV got married to the Infanta Maria Theresa of Austria, and you can still enjoy the beauty of the magnificent altar piece. The current church is thought to be built on the ruins of an earlier incarnation and was designed by the architect of the King, Louis Milhet. Plans to increase the size of the church were created in 1649 and the work was completed in 1680. The church is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, who is the patron saint of the city. The main gate, adorned with the statue of St. John the Baptist, holding his shepherd's staff in his hand, was created between 1664 and 1666. The churches in this area have kind of lateral galleries like in medieval theatres. The oldest parts of the church, such as the gate tower and several windows overlooking the Rue Gambetta, date back to the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. The building was destroyed by the many fires that the city experienced during the Spanish invasion. The church is open all year round and is free to enter.

Maison Louis XIV
Place Louis XIV, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 262758. Email: maison.louisxiv@wanadoo.fr . www.maison-louis-xiv.fr
A beautiful seventeenth century house is where Louis XIV established himself during his marriage with the Infanta Maria Theresa. The house has been in the same family since its construction in 1643 and has some fine examples of seventeenth and eighteenth century furniture and painted beams. The house has been sympathetically restored over the last couple of years with particular emphasis on the kitchen and dining room of the King.
Open: April - November
Price: Adult/€6; Child/ €3.80

Écomusée Basque Jean Vier
RN 10, 64500 Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 513323. Email: ecomuseebasque@jean-vier.com . www.ecomusee-basque.com
The Basque Eco-museum provides a journey to the heart of the Basque soul and is a celebration of the Basque culture and its history. The installation is leads the visitor on an interactive tour using light and cinema media aimed at educating and informing people about the Basque culture which is so ingrained in the area (audio tour available in English). You can learn all about weaving and carpentry to dance and home life. There is also the chance to try some Izarra Basque liqueur! The onsite shops offers traditional Basque gifts that can be purchased from the likes of woven table cloths to towels, dinner services to designer bags!
Open: April - October
Price: Adult /€7.50, Child /€3.20

Jardin Botanique Paul Jovet
31 Avenue Gaëtan Bernoville, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 263459. Email: jardin-botanique@saintjeandeluz.fr  www.jardinlittoral-saintjeandeluz.fr
Plant lovers, botanists and green fingered gardeners will love the Paul Jovet Botanical Garden. Set on the stunning Archilua coastal cliff overlooking the ocean, the garden is a dedication to the flora found in the natural environment of the Basque coast. The garden's location is well renowned for its stunning landscape, architectural and natural space, and as such, it became a protected site in order to preserve the nature and its identity.
Open: March - November
Price: Adult /€4.00, Child /€2.00

Segway Tour of the Jardin Botanique
Jardin Botanique, 32 Avenue Gaëtan of Bernoville, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)688 343023/+33(0)616 984769. Email: biarritz@mobilboard.com

There is also the option to discover the botanical garden on a guided Segway tour. Your guide will help you get to grips with your fun, eco-friendly machine before you head off to discover the flora of the Basque coast and soak up the exceptional views of Santa Barbara and the Bay of Saint Jean de Luz, along with seeking out the hidden coves of Acotz! Prices from €25.

Availabiltiy and Prices: www.mobilboard.com/fr/agence/segway/biarritz/offres-loisirs

 

Culture & Heritage Nearby

 

The town of Saint Jean de Luz makes a great base for exploring the Basque coast and its surrounding countryside, towns and villages where you will find a rich cultural heritage. The town of Saint Jean de Luz is perfect for a hop across the border to check out the cultural delights of San Sebastian, Bilbao and Hondarribia.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is the capital of the Basque province of Lower Navarre. It is built on the historic road between France and Spain in the Pyrenees and is also one of the most important sites on the 'Saint-Jacques de Compostela' before crossing the mountains. The city is divided by the river Nive, which is spanned by an old stone bridge, 'Pont Neuf' with its pink sandstone tower. The beautiful main street which climbs to the Citadel is lined with pretty houses that date back to the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries and there is a market every Monday.

Cambo les Bains
The Labourdine spa town of Cambo les Bains is full of charm; from the narrow streets and alleyways, the hanging laundry and the Roman Bridge to its brightly whitewashed houses with their blood red shutters. A visit to the quintessentially Basque Villa Arnaga with its néo-basque architecture and 15 acres of French and English styled gardens, carefully cultivated with pavilions, ponds and a long canal, is a must.

Espelette
Espelette is an attractive village that has preserve its authenticity with its beautiful, traditional Labourd-style houses and the recently restored castle. The protected sixteenth century church of Saint-Etienne, has a Baroque altarpiece and its graveyard has many traditional Basque discoid tombstones. One point of interest is the grave of local woman, Agnès Souret. Souret was the first woman ever to be chosen as Miss France in 1920. She died in Argentina aged 26 in 1928 and her body was repatriated to Espelette by her mother who sold most of her possessions to provide a resting place for her daughter. Espelette is also famous for the chili pepper of the same name that is cultivated here and the annual chili festival that is held to celebrate it in October.

Bayonne
Bayonne is known for its famous Bayonne ham and chocolate but also has a rich historical heritage. Bayonne is exceptionally proud of its label, 'City of Art and History,' and has many historical sights of interest such as the Old Castle, the Cathedral of Saint Mary, the Cloister and the Gothic cellars. It is the economic, administrative and cultural capital of the region.

Anglet
Famed for its many long and sandy beaches and intimate coves, it is a great place to explore the nature of the Basque country. Relax on the quiet beach of 'La Barre' with the sound of the Atlantic waves as your soundtrack. Bike trails, walking trails, and fitness trails offer a plethora of ways to oxygenate the heart and lungs in the Pignada and Lazaretto forests. Finally, do not forget the beautiful ecological park of Izadia.

Biarritz
Biarritz is a luxurious seaside town on the Bay of Biscay, on the Atlantic coast in the Pyrénées Atlantiques department. Situated in south-western France with a temperate climate, it is popular with international visitors and surfers. Once considered a playground for the aristocracy, this pearl of the Atlantic now surfs on a wave of effervescent youth, awash with unselfconscious luxury and the slightest hint of glam rock. With breathtaking panoramas of celebrated beaches and its curved inlets, punctuated by rocky outcrops, it is an enchanting destination at any time of the year.

Ciboure
The pretty town of Ciboure lies across the harbour of Saint Jean de Luz on the other side of the Nivelle River and is famed for its traditional Basque style buildings. The sixteenth century, Église Saint-Vincent de Ciboure, has an octagonal tower, Basque galleries and a Baroque altarpiece. Adjacent to Ciboure is the Fort of Socoa, a 15th-century fortress built by Louis XIII. Be sure to visit the Maison Ravel, the chapel and tower of Bordagain and the convent and cloisters of Recollets.

Urrugne
Urrugne is a quiet Basque village which has managed to preserve its authenticity and traditions. During the 17th century, Urrugne was situated on the shortest route from Paris to Madrid that took 13 days by horse and coach from the French capital. Due to its closeness to Spain, the village was subject to confrontations in the many wars between the two countries until the Treaty of the Pyrenees was signed. Built in 1314, the Château d’Urtubie has witnessed all these events and more over its six centuries. Personalities from all periods have stayed there: King Louis XI, Louis XIV, Marshal Soult and Wellington! A great starting point for many walks in the surrounding area, be sure to visit the Church of St. Vincent, Notre Dame de Sokorri and the Chapelle du Mont Calvaire.

Zugarramurdi
The typical Spanish village of Zugarramurdi Urdax became infamous as the setting of alleged occult activity featured in the Basque witch trials held in Logroño in the 17th century. Witches were believed to have inhabited the old houses of the village that can be identified today by their framing red stones and colourful flower displays. The village is home to the Basque Witch Museum and the Cuevas de las Brujas (Witch Caves). Every year, spectacular fires are lit in the caves in celebration of the ‘day of the witch’ on the summer solstice.

Urdazubi
Urdazubi is in the same province as Zugarramurdi which is just over 4km away. There is a walking trail that connects the two identify and follow using the blue horse symbol. Urdazubi maintains a medieval character, perfectly blending past and present. The pretty village hides a number of attractions, from medieval bridges to majestic country houses and Romanesque churches such as that of San Salvador. However, the village is perhaps most famous for its prehistoric caves. The Ikaburu Caves are located below the green meadows of the slopes of north-western Navarre and were created some 14000 years ago due to river erosion - the Urtxuma River runs through the caves. The caves galleries provide stunning examples of stalactites and stalagmites and during their existence, they have been used by both soldiers and smugglers!

Hondarribia
Just a short distance from Saint Jean de Luz, via the shuttle boat from Hendaye, the fishing village of Hondarribia is awash with colour with its bright Basque houses and their flowery balconies. Perched on a hillside, the old town is surrounded by impressive castle walls dating back to the 16th century and built for Charles V. It makes for a pleasant day trip and for those that decide to stay a little longer, you should try its famous tapas and its nightlife! Be sure to visit the gothic-style Parish Church of Santa Maria de La Asuncion y del Manzano with its added Renaissance and Baroque influenced architecture and rare picture of the Trinity which is considered to be one of only a few in the whole of Europe.

San Sebastian
Surrounded by beautiful landscapes and famous beaches, the lively city of San Sebastian is just a 30 minute drive from Saint-Jean-de-Luz. For those that don't fancy the prospect of driving or if you would like to enjoy some Spanish wine with your meal, it is possible to go to San Sebastian by train from Hendaye. In the old town, you will find charming period houses with French architectural influences and also a strong, traditional Basque culture. Be sure to search out the Cathedral del buen pastor Artzain-ona and the Church of Santa Maria del Coro. The old town is a great place to immerse yourself in history and culture and it is also a fantastic place to stop for a bite to eat in one of the restaurants serving traditional Basque cuisine. Today the city of San Sebastian is a major cultural centre with a host of museums including the Science Museum and the Museum Chillida-Leku.

Bilbao
Situated on the river Nervion in the north of Spain, Bilbao is probably most famous for its Frank Gehry designed Guggenheim Museum. This former dirty and grey industrial city is now a modern and dynamic city of culture which competes with the major European capitals. It is worth a visit if only to see the stunning metallic and glass structure of the Guggenheim. This workers town has a strong and proud heart and a rich history, its skyline dominated by the huge, gothic Cathedral of Santiago and the Basilica Begona.

Check: http://fr.calameo.com/read/0000174207a3d09386b54

 

Natural Wonders & Wildlife Nearby

 

Larrun (La Rhune)
The 905m high mountain of Larrun sits at the western end of the Pyrenees where the traditional Basque provinces of Labourd and Navarra meet. Larrun holds an iconic place in Basque culture. Just like the Albères Mountains on the Catalan Mediterranean coast, it is covered in dolmens, stone circles and other Neolithic monuments and as such was held to be a sacred place in their mythology. Larrun's summit also had a reputation as an 'akelarre' or ritual meeting place for witches and up until the 18th century, local villages paid for a monk to live as a hermit at the top of the mountain to keep witches away and ensure good winds! Again, like the Albères, Larrun was a popular route for smugglers. Local tales tell of the mountain being covered by gold until evil men came to take it away. The tale says that they burned the trees on the mountain to reach the gold, but the metal melted and flowed away! Today, these smuggler's routes are populated with walkers and hikers and you are more likely to come across a red headed Manech sheep or a Pottok pony than a pot of gold! Larrun is popular among hikers as it is the first peak encountered on the coast-to-coast Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne (HRP) walking route. If hiking in the Pyrenean heat seems a step too far, the summit can be reached by the Petit Train de la Rhune, which starts from the Col de Saint-Ignace, 10.5km east of the town on the D4 road to Sare. This authentic vintage rack railway train, dating from 1924, takes you on a 35 minute ride at a speed of 9km per hour to the top of Larrun.

www.rhune.com/fr/index.aspx

Labenne Zoo
Avenue de l’Océan, 40530, Labenne. Tel: +33 (0)559 454393. Email: contact@zoo-labenne.com
Only 22km from the centre of Biarritz, Labenne Zoo is just a short drive away. The zoo is set in the heart of the Landes forest where cork oaks (whose bark is used for bottle corks), pines and eucalyptus trees will punctuate your exotic journey through the five continents. The zoo houses over 200 animals and 60 different species from all around the world, from zebras to serval cats, camels to maki monkeys and wallabies to alpaccas.... there's something for everyone. Children can interact with some of the animals in the zoo farm and there is also a play area to keep them occupied. The zoo also has a shop where you can buy merchandise and refreshments that can be enjoyed in the picnic areas under the welcome shade of the cork oaks.
Price: Adult/ 9.50 €; Children (3 to 11 years)/ 7 €; Children under 3 years/Free
Open: Please refer to the website zoo-labenne.com/infos-pratiques/horaires-douvertures/  

 

Children Specific

 

Swimming Pool
Route d’Ascain, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 261515. Email: piscine-saintjeandeluz@carilis.fr www.carilis.fr
Saint Jean de Luz has a pool with a water park that is great for families and children. Keen swimmers can churn out the lengths in the large 25m sport pool while those looking for a refreshing dip and a bit of splashing around can enjoy the 35m and 56m long spiral slides! The pool has a dedicated paddling area for the very young along with a well-being area for those who need a bit of pampering. You can take part in anything from aqua gym to aqua biking as well as a host of other water based activities. So if it's exertion, relaxation or just plain old fun, the pool has all the bases covered to keep the family happy.
Open: All year
Price: Adult/ €4.30; Child /€3.30

Luzi Park
ZA Jalday, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 231974
What do you do when the kids are bored and the weather isn't so great? Maybe head over to Luzi Park which is an indoor playground for children of ages up to 12 years old. The playground is open all year round and has heating and air conditioning so it's never too hot or too cold. Children can enjoy the various activities: ball pool, maze, slide, trampoline, mini disco, Play & Learn construction. Celebrating a special day? There is a space dedicated to birthdays. There is also a snack bar on site where you and the kids can grab a nibble.

Beach Club Le Sporting
Grande plage de Saint Jean de Luz, Face au Grand Hôtel, 64500, SAINT-JEAN-DE-LUZ. Tel: +33(0)622 660975/+33(0)662 897642. . www.club-sporting.com . Email: sebastien.hiriart@free.fr , nathbs@club-internet.fr
The beach club is open every day from early July to late August (except Sunday) and welcomes children from the age of 3 years old. The club offers a host of recreational and sporting activities such as gymnastics, volleyball, supervised swimming, various games and competitions. A fully qualified lifeguard is on hand to give private swimming lessons.
Price and availability: www.club-sporting.com/

Beach Club Les Trois Couronnes Mickey
Grande Plage, 64500, SAINT-JEAN-DE-LUZ. Tel: +33(0)562 350244/+33(0)669 003044
Facing towards the bay of Saint Jean De Luz, the beach club 'Three Crowns Mickey' is located on the main beach and offers many creative and sports related activities. Children from the age of 3 years old can chose from 5 slides, swings, a play area, ropes, table tennis and volleyball to name but a few of the activities. The beach club is run by certified instructors and individual swimming lessons are provided by fully qualified lifeguards.
Open: 1st July - 31st August, Everyday 09:30 - 13h30 and 15:30 - 19:00 (Closed Sunday)
Price: Check locally

Bidaparc
Plage Uhabia, Bidart. Tel: +33(0)559 221566. . www.bidaparc.com
Bid'a Park is a secure amusement park with that covers an area of approximately 8000m². It features a tropical garden which is a great place for relaxing and a mega park which consists of water games, inflatables, a carousel, zip line, trampolines and even a small farm where children can interact with the animals. On hot days you can cool off with the 'misting stations' that send out a cooling 'mist' of water. All you need to remember is to bring your swimsuit!
Price and availability: www.bidaparc.com/horaires-et-tarifs.php

Ibardin Aventure Park
Col d’Ibardin, D404 Route du col d'Ibardin, 64122, Urrugne. Tel: +33(0)786 325683. . www.ibardin-aventures.com
Ibardin Adventures welcomes everyone from the smallest to the largest! One of the newest forest adventure parks in the Basque Country, it’s great for a fun filled day with family and friends set in the beautiful location of Col Ibardin. There is everything from a monkey bridge and tree climbing to trampolines and orienteering at this eco park adventure playground. Just remember to bring your head for heights and a sense of balance!
Price and availability: www.ibardin-aventures.com/horaires-et-tarifs.html

Treetop Outdoor Activity Park
Parc d’Aventures & Paintball Oihana, Route de la Glacière, 64122, Urrugne. Tel: +33(0)603 405231. . www.oihana-64.com . Email: info@oihana-64.com
Welcome to the highest Forest Freestyle Adventure Park of the Basque coast, with raised courses ranging from 3m to 20m in the trees and varying degrees of difficulty. Children and adults alike will go giddy on this one – literally. Take to the heights of the treetops discovering different methods to cross from one tree to the next using swings, rope bridges and zip cords. Great fun for all the family - especially those who love being high up in the trees. You'll need about 2.5 hours to complete the full adult course and full equipment and a safety briefing is provided.
Price and availability: www.oihana-64.com/rates-and-schedules/?lang=en

Paintballing
Parc d’Aventures & Paintball Oihana, Route de la Glacière, 64122, Urrugne. Tel: +33(0)603 405231. . www.oihana-64.com . Email: info@oihana-64.com
Away on holiday with a bunch of friends? Bored of the beach already? Why not take to the woods for some intensely satisfying paintball action? You'll be given protective masks and a paintball launcher that propels the .68 calibre capsules of biodegradable, non-toxic paint through the air in the direction of your enemy! With and area of over 1000m2, it's a game of strategy and skill lying somewhere between dodge ball and chess! Kids from the age of 7 can play using a slightly different format to that of the adults only game. Children from the age of 12 can join in with the adults.
Price and availability: www.oihana-64.com/rates-and-schedules/?lang=en

Boat cruises
Port de Saint-Jean-de-Luz, 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Tel: +33(0)609 ​​736181. Email: luzcroisiere@gmail.com www.croisiere-saintjeandeluz.com 
Fancy a cruise along the Basque Corniche to the port of Hondarribia (Spain) or a panoramic sail along the Basque Coast to Biarritz and beyond with the Pyrenees as your backdrop? There are lots of boat cruise options to choose from, allowing you to discover the beautiful coastal terrain from another perspective. You can discover the Bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Flysh cliffs, Loya Bay, Hendaye Beach and the river Bidasoa estuary which forms the border between France and Spain, along with the small fishing port of Hondarribia (see Culture & Heritage Sights nearby), Cape Higuier and its lighthouse. You can even try your hand at sea fishing where you are likely to catch anything from sea bass and sea bream to scorpion fish and octopus!
Price and availability: www.croisiere-saintjeandeluz.com/fr/croisiere

Le Petit Train de Saint Jean de Luz
Tel: +33(0)559 419694/+33(0)685 707285. Email: train-saint-jean-de-luz@wanadoo.fr  www.petit-train-saint-jean-de-luz.com
Walking in the heat of the day can be tiring, even at sea level! So why not do your sightseeing aboard the Petit Train de Saint Jean de Luz? The little white train with its Basque trim of red and green is the perfect way to explore the old town and its history as it weaves through the narrow streets lined with farmhouses. The pickup point is the roundabout at the old port and each tour lasts approx. 1 hour. Tour is given in multiple languages, English included.
Price and availability: www.petit-train-saint-jean-de-luz.com/3.html
 
Cinéma Le Sélect
29 Boulevard Victor Hugo, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 858084. Email: contact@cineluz.fr  www.cineluz.fr
Cinéma Le Sélect offers 4 air-conditioned theatres where you can watch anything from national and international blockbuster to art house and kids movies. The cinema is located in the heart of Saint Jean de Luz, and there are usually 3-4 screenings each day. Check the website for listings.

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