Espelette

Espelette is the heart of Basque gastronomy and culture in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department. The village is famous for the 'Piment d'Espelette', a protected variety of chili pepper introduced from South America in the 16th century. Every late summer, the facades of traditional Labourd houses are decorated with garlands of drying red peppers, creating a unique visual spectacle. Beyond its agriculture, the village features characterful architecture with deep red or green timber frames. Visitors can explore the Castle of the Barons of Ezpeleta, which now houses the town hall and local exhibitions. The 16th-century Church of Saint-Étienne is notable for its massive square tower and the typical Basque wooden galleries inside. The narrow streets are lined with boutiques offering local specialties like chili-infused chocolate, Basque cake, and handcrafted leather goods. For outdoor enthusiasts, Espelette is a well-suited base for hiking in the Pyrenean foothills, particularly the ascent of Mount Mondarrain. The best time to visit is in October, during the famous Chili Festival (Fête du Piment), which draws thousands of foodies. Gastronomically, you must try 'Axoa', a traditional veal stew seasoned with the local pepper. The village is easily accessible from Bayonne or Biarritz, both located about 20 kilometers away.

Nearby cities

Bordeaux

Bordeaux, located on the banks of the Garonne, is the world capital of wine.

Pau

Pau sits at the foot of the Pyrenees and offers wide mountain views and a calm southwestern French atmosphere.

Pessac

Pessac is a dynamic city in the Bordeaux metropolitan area, renowned for its prestigious wine estates and modern architectural heritage.

Angoulême

Angoulême overlooks the Charente and is known as France's comic-book capital and for its city walls.

Saint-Pierre-d'Irube

A Basque commune on the outskirts of Bayonne, known for its green hills and the historic Battle of Saint-Pierre (1813).

Bayonne

Bayonne sits between the Adour and Nive rivers and is known for Basque culture, chocolate, and a lively old town.

Talence

A key university and sports hub in the Bordeaux metropolitan area, world-renowned for the Decastar athletics meeting.

Bordeaux-Sud

The southern area of Bordeaux includes both residential areas and modern scientific institutions.

Anglet

The surfing capital of the Basque Country, featuring eleven different sandy beaches and the extensive Chiberta forest.

Mont-de-Marsan

Mont-de-Marsan is the 'city of three rivers' and the capital of the Landes department, famous for its sculptures and Gascon culture.

Périgueux

Périgueux is the capital of Périgord and combines Roman traces with a pretty old town and markets.

Agen

Agen sits on the Garonne and is known across France as the capital of prunes and the southwestern way of life.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a stylish Atlantic resort town known for surfing, beaches, and its blend of Basque culture and elegance.

Villenave-d'Ornon

A lush southern suburb of Bordeaux, famous for its world-class wineries in the Pessac-Léognan appellation.

Saint-Médard-en-Jalles

Saint-Médard-en-Jalles is a major city near Bordeaux, renowned as a hub for the European aerospace and defense industry.