4 day itinerary for Hendaye

Itinerary

Hendaye is a charming coastal town in the Basque Country, right on the border with Spain. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a delightful 4-day itinerary that will help you soak in all the beauty and charm of Hendaye!

## Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day

Morning:

• Arrive in Hendaye and check into your accommodation. If you’re staying near the beach, you’re in for a treat!
• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try some fresh pastries and a café au lait to kick off your trip.

Afternoon:

• Head to Plage d'Hendaye, the main beach. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just strolling along the shore. The beach is quite spacious, so you’ll have plenty of room to relax.
• Grab a light lunch at one of the beachside restaurants. A seafood platter or a Basque-style pintxos would be a great choice!

Evening:

• Take a sunset walk along the beach. The views of the ocean and the distant mountains are simply breathtaking.
• For dinner, try a local restaurant like La Table d'Aranda for some traditional Basque cuisine. Don’t forget to sample some local wine!

## Day 2: Explore the Basque Culture

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Château d’Abbadie, a stunning castle with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the coastline. The architecture is fascinating, and the grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Hendaye Market (if it’s a Wednesday or Saturday) to experience local life. You can find fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal products. It’s a great place to pick up some snacks for later!
• Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, perhaps trying a Basque dish like axoa (a meat stew).

Evening:

• Visit the Eglise Saint-Vincent, a lovely church with beautiful stained glass windows.
• For dinner, consider Restaurant La Cueva, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious Basque dishes. Try the talo (corn tortilla) with chistorra (Basque sausage).

## Day 3: Day Trip to San Sebastián

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a short train ride or drive to San Sebastián (about 30 minutes away). This vibrant city is famous for its beaches and culinary scene.
• Start your day at La Concha Beach. Take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Old Town (Parte Vieja), where you can indulge in pintxos hopping! Try various small dishes at different bars. Don’t miss the gilda (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers).
• Visit the San Telmo Museoa to learn about Basque history and culture.

Evening:

• Head back to Hendaye and relax a bit before dinner.
• For a laid-back evening, try Le Café de la Plage for a casual dinner with a view of the ocean.

## Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a hike in the Hondarribia area, which is just a short distance from Hendaye. The Jaizkibel Mountain offers stunning views and beautiful trails.
• Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature!

Afternoon:

• After your hike, visit the charming town of Hondarribia. Explore its colorful streets and the historic old town.
• Have lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some bacalao (cod) or merluza (hake).

Evening:

• Return to Hendaye and spend your last evening relaxing at the beach or enjoying a leisurely walk along the waterfront.
• For your farewell dinner, treat yourself to a meal at La Bodega, where you can enjoy a mix of traditional and modern Basque dishes.

Tips:

• Don’t forget to try the local cider and cheese while you’re there!
• If you have time, consider taking a boat trip to explore the coastline or even a surf lesson if you’re feeling adventurous!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Hendaye! Enjoy the beautiful scenery, delicious food, and rich culture. Safe travels! 🌊🍷✨