A seaside resort at the Spanish border
What to do in Hendaye

Hendaye, a town rich in culture and history, welcomes you to the Basque Country and its exceptional natural heritage.

The sites to visit
Discover the treasures of Hendaye

The beautiful sandy beach at Hendaye stretching over three kilometres is undoubtedly one of the main attractions of this lovely seaside town and port. However, the seafront is not the only jewel in Hendaye’s crown…Admire the other aspects of this old fishing town as you discover its historic and religious monuments.

Best places to visit
in Hendaye

Hendaye beach and the “Deux Jumeaux” rocks

Hendaye beach is where to go for all water sports and for a lazy day relaxing on the sand. The spectacular “Deux Jumeaux” rocks at the end of this long stretch of fine sand also explain its reputation and the historical legends surrounding this unique rock formation.

Txingudi bay

Txingudi bay is a peaceful bay which will delight hikers and cyclists, many of whom make the most of the sunny weather to enjoy the beautiful path along the seashore.

Abbadia castle-observatory

Behind the imposing façade and heavy door of Abbadia castle-observatory hides the home of Antoine d’Abbadie, built on the cliffs at Hendaye. It was designed to be both a home and a scientific laboratory. Its architectural style is both neo-Gothic and oriental and its period furniture is worth the visit.

The Euskotren

The Euskotren, Hendaye’s small typical station, means visitors can easily get to San Sebastian or Bilbao by train.

The train for San Sebastián

The shuttle train from Hendaye station means you can get to San Sebastián in only 35 minutes every day.

The Caneta district and the Ile aux Faisans

Below Hendaye town centre, the Caneta district features the remains of the Vauban fort ramparts and its historic monuments, such as the villa of the writer Pierre Loti or the Villa Mauresque. The Ile aux Faisans, or Pheasant Island, in the middle of the river marking the border between France and Spain, is famous for having been the site of the signature of the so-called Peace Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659.

The church of Saint Vincent Diacre

Erected in 1598, the stone cross of the church of Saint Vincent Diacre decorated with astral signs is unique, and the meaning of these esoteric symbols is still a mystery for the whole world, despite the many attempts to decipher them.

The chapel of Sainte Anne

Built in the 1930s, the chapel of Sainte Anne stands on the site of an old chapel dating from the end of the 18^th century. This little church is worth a visit for its remarkable stained-glass windows and the quality of its construction, with its three semi-circular chapels and its bell tower.

Visit Hendaye on foot

The town centre

Hendaye’s historic town centre features large squares, fountains and narrow pedestrian streets. The neo-Basque style can be seen particularly in the architecture of Hendaye. Relax in the town’s many bars and restaurants and enjoy the lively, authentic atmosphere of Hendaye.

The market

Come and try the local produce (sheep cheese, Basque cakes, etc.) at Hendaye market as you stroll from stall to stall and meet the local producers. You can find all the regional produce there. Don’t miss the opportunity to take home one of the many typical Basque Country treats in your suitcase!

The marina

Up to 900 pleasure boats can be moored at the port of Hendaye at the mouth of the river Bidassoa marking the border between France and Spain. The contrast between the reflections of the hulls of the boats in the water and the curves of the mountains as far as the eye can see offers a wonderful landscape to admire from dawn to dusk.

The beach

Hendaye has a particularly long seafront with three kilometres of fine sand on its large beach and the famous “Deux Jumeaux” rocks make a lasting impression on visitors who flock here in summer to enjoy all the water sports available from the beach.

The Basque “Corniche”

Hendaye is the start (or end) of the famous Basque Corniche cliff, which stretches over ten kilometres and is a very well-preserved natural heritage. The coastal footpath offers spectacular views over the most beautiful cliffs in the Basque Country.

Wellness activities

RELAIS THALASSO Hendaye

The RELAIS THALASSO Hendaye centre offers a full and varied range of wellness treatments and rituals for all visitors, whatever their needs and desires.

the spa

The marine spa is an ideal place to relax and recharge your batteries as you enjoy all the benefits of the seawater and relieve your body and mind of any tension.

sports

Golf

Enjoy your favourite sport between the sea and the mountains with golf lessons for beginners and experienced players. Further information from the Hendaye Tourist Office.

Tennis

The Hendaye tennis club awaits you to work off your energy on the various outdoor and indoor courts in the town. Contact the Hendaye Tourist Office for more information.

Horse riding

Would you like to go horse-riding or pony-trekking to explore the landscapes and natural, preserved areas of Hendaye from a different angle? Contact the Tourist Office for information about the outings organised by the various local riding stables.

Water sports

The hotel pool

Our heated outdoor swimming pool is open to all hotel residents to cool off, relax or simply enjoy the moment by the water.

Surfing

Try your hand at surfing or perfect your technique! The Basque Country is the ideal place to enjoy this sport which is extremely popular among locals and sports fans from all over the world.

Jet-ski

Treat yourself to an unforgettable jet ski trip from Hendaye marina…Adrenalin rush guaranteed!

Diving

To admire the marine fauna and flora of the Basque Country, try scuba diving in Txingudi bay, famous for its breath-taking excursions.

Boat trips

To admire the coast from another angle, take to the waves on-board a boat and sail along the Basque coast to discover all the fabulous landscapes from another point of view.

Sea hiking

Why not make the most of the seafront and long beach at Hendaye to try the sport of “longe-côte” or sea hiking, an excellent idea to enjoy sport, hiking and pleasure all rolled into one.

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Night-life in Hendaye

Many bars and restaurants

Hendaye is a great place to live and visitors feel it too in the diversity of bars and restaurants open in the town centre.

Cinema

The “Les Variétés” cinema is in Rue du Théâtre and is open every day in July and August.

Sokoburu casino

The Sokoburu casino in Hendaye is just 200 metres from the Ibaïa hotel. Fifty slot machines are available every day of the week.

booking
Book your hotel overlooking the sea in Hendaye

For a hotel with pool, ideally located opposite the Hendaye Marina, book your stay at the IBAÏA hotel now.

rooms

Apartments

FAQ
questions

How to visit Hendaye

Hendaye is a small town on a human scale. Its town centre, main monuments and must-see places are easily accessible on foot.

Where to do sports in Hendaye

There are many sports available in Hendaye: the beach and marina offer great access to water sports. The coastal path and seafront plus the many walks will be popular with joggers, hikers and walkers alike.

What can you do in Hendaye with children?

Hendaye offers many opportunities to have fun with your family: beach clubs for children, sailing, kayaking, tree-top climbing, horse riding and pony trekking and beach-volley are just some of the possible leisure activities. Contact the Tourist Office to know all the activities and events available.

A seaside resort at the Spanish borderWhat to do in Hendaye

The sites to visitDiscover the treasures of Hendaye

Best places to visit in Hendaye