La Rhune (Larrun) Biarritz
Iconic Basque mountain offering stunning panoramic views via a historic train or challenging hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
La Rhune (Larrun) Biarritz
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Basque mountain offering stunning panoramic views via a historic train or challenging hike.
"Breathtaking views and a peaceful climb! Totally worth it."
🎟️ Book Train Tickets ASAP
Train tickets sell out fast! Book online weeks ahead to avoid disappointment .
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails are steep. Good grip and ankle support are essential for a safe climb .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Summit of La Rhune
360-degree views stretching from the French Landes to San Sebastian, Spain. Absolutely breathtaking!
Vintage Train Ride
La Rhune Train Station, Sare
A charming journey on a historic cogwheel train through stunning Basque countryside.
Pottok Grazing
Slopes of La Rhune
Encounter the iconic wild Pottok ponies roaming freely on the mountain slopes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Train Tickets Early
Hike Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Train Tickets ASAP
Train tickets sell out fast! Book online weeks ahead to avoid disappointment.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails are steep. Good grip and ankle support are essential for a safe climb.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days. The climb is strenuous.
🧥 Windproof Jacket
It's often windy and cooler at the summit, even on sunny days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Train Tickets ASAP
Train tickets sell out fast! Book online weeks ahead to avoid disappointment.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails are steep. Good grip and ankle support are essential for a safe climb.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days. The climb is strenuous.
🧥 Windproof Jacket
It's often windy and cooler at the summit, even on sunny days.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible. Don't forget your camera or phone!
🐴 Pottok Encounters
Keep an eye out for the charming Pottok ponies grazing on the hillsides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, spanning both France and Spain, and the charming vintage train ride. Many find the hike rewarding despite its steepness. Some advise booking train tickets far in advance due to high demand.
"A very nice view at the top, and a great experience where you can see into both France and Spain. The walk up is very steep, so I would recommend you take lots of water. There is the option if the train, but you have to book far in advance and can’t just turn up on the day. There is a shop at the top and two restaurants."
Alex Chadwick
"Breathtaking views and a peaceful climb! Whether you hike or take the vintage train, La Rhune is a must-see in the Basque Country. Stunning panoramas over the ocean and mountains — totally worth it. Don’t forget a jacket; it gets windy at the top!"
Mourad Chafik
"We started from the reservoir, then followed the trail up. Positive gain throughout with parts requiring good physical condition and shoes. A moderate to difficult hike, but well worth the effort. At sunrise with clear skies the 360 view is stunning."
Aurélie MENEAU
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Biarritz, you can drive or take public transport to Sare or Ascain, the main starting points for La Rhune. Driving is about 40 minutes. The La Rhune train station is located in Sare.
Parking is available at the train station in Sare, but it can be very crowded and difficult to find, especially during peak times.
Yes, there are several well-marked hiking trails to the summit from nearby towns like Sare and Ascain. The hike can be steep and requires good fitness.+1
You can either hike up or take the historic cogwheel train. Both offer unique experiences, but the train requires advance booking.
Yes, you can reach the base towns like Sare or Ascain by bus from Biarritz, and then either hike or take the train from there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Round-trip tickets for the La Rhune train typically cost around 24€ per person. Prices can vary, so check the official website for current rates.
Absolutely! It is highly recommended to book your train tickets well in advance, as they often sell out completely for the day, especially during busy periods.+1
The train operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official La Rhune website for the most up-to-date operating schedule.
While it's possible, it's very unlikely to get tickets on the day, as they are usually fully booked far in advance. Booking online is the safest bet.
Discounts may be available for children or groups. Check the official website for any specific offers or family packages.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, visit a small shop, and dine at one of the two restaurants. It's also a great spot for photos.
The summit can be significantly cooler and windier than the base. It's advisable to bring a jacket or windbreaker, even on a warm day.
Yes, the views from La Rhune extend across the border into Spain, offering a stunning panorama of the Basque coast and countryside.
Yes, there are two restaurants at the summit offering food and drinks. They can get busy, so consider packing snacks if you prefer.
Pottoks are a breed of small, hardy ponies native to the Basque Country. They roam freely on the slopes of La Rhune and are a charming sight.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography, with the golden hour casting a beautiful glow over the landscape.
Expect stunning landscape shots, panoramic views of the coast and mountains, charming train photos, and candid shots of the Pottok ponies.
While drone photography can capture incredible aerial views, be mindful of local regulations and potential wind conditions at the summit.
A wide-angle lens is great for panoramas, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
The summit offers the most iconic viewpoints. The train journey itself also provides excellent photo opportunities of the scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as well as layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly. The restaurants at the top can accommodate families, but bringing your own picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery is also a great option. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the edges at the summit.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Experienced hikers can enjoy the steep ascents and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the peak. The panoramic views are a significant draw, offering breathtaking vistas of both the French and Spanish Basque regions. Remember to wear appropriate gear, carry sufficient water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions at higher altitudes.
📸 Photographers
The historic train itself is also a photogenic subject, especially as it winds through the scenic terrain.For the best light, aim for sunrise or sunset, when the golden hour bathes the landscape in a warm, ethereal glow.
+1 Be prepared for windy conditions at the summit, which can add a dramatic element to your shots. Don't forget to capture the charming Pottok ponies that roam the slopes, adding a unique touch to your Basque Country portfolio.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic La Rhune Train
However, its popularity means booking tickets well in advance is crucial. Many visitors find that tickets are sold out days, or even weeks, ahead, especially during peak season. If you're set on taking the train, plan your visit and secure your tickets as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
While the train offers a comfortable ascent, remember that it's a shared experience. For those seeking a more personal connection with the mountain, hiking might be a better option. Regardless of your chosen method, the train provides a unique and memorable way to reach the summit.
Hiking La Rhune: Trails and Tips
Key advice from hikers includes wearing sturdy hiking boots for grip and ankle support, and carrying plenty of water due to the strenuous nature of the climb.
Many hikers recommend starting early, especially for sunrise hikes, to experience the magical light and avoid the midday heat and crowds.
The descent can be just as challenging as the ascent, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. The opportunity to see Pottok ponies up close is another highlight for many hikers.The Summit Experience: Views and Amenities
This vantage point makes it a prime location for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light is most dramatic.+1Beyond the views, the summit is equipped with amenities to enhance your visit. There's a small souvenir shop where you can pick up mementos of your trip. For those who worked up an appetite, two restaurants are available, offering a place to rest and refuel while soaking in the scenery.
It's important to remember that the summit is exposed and can be windy and cooler than the base, even on warm days. Bringing a jacket or windbreaker is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable experience.
Social
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