Bidart Coastal Path
A scenic coastal walk through charming Basque towns, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to beautiful beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Bidart Coastal Path
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic coastal walk through charming Basque towns, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to beautiful beaches.
"Superb walk with beautiful viewpoints, even if it passes more and more through tarmac roads."
Check for Closures First
Landslides can close sections. Always check local advisories before setting out. :warning:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path has steep steps and can be uneven or muddy in places. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Ocean Vistas
Various points along the path
Breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay and dramatic cliffs await at numerous scenic overlooks.
Charming Basque Towns
Connecting Bidart, Guéthary, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Wander through picturesque villages, experiencing the unique culture and architecture of the Basque Country.
Secluded Beaches
Accessible from the path
Discover hidden coves and beautiful beaches perfect for a refreshing dip or a moment of tranquility.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Closures
Accessibility & Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Closures First
Landslides can close sections. Always check local advisories before setting out. :warning:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path has steep steps and can be uneven or muddy in places. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Limited services on some stretches. Stay hydrated and fueled for your walk. :water_wave:
Consider the Voie Littoral
This path is part of the larger Voie Littoral, offering extended coastal walking options. :hiking_boot:
Walking from Biarritz
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Closures First
Landslides can close sections. Always check local advisories before setting out. :warning:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path has steep steps and can be uneven or muddy in places. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Limited services on some stretches. Stay hydrated and fueled for your walk. :water_wave:
Consider the Voie Littoral
This path is part of the larger Voie Littoral, offering extended coastal walking options. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bidart Coastal Path for its stunning ocean views and charming Basque towns, offering a beautiful blend of nature and culture. However, some find the increasing amount of paved sections and the challenging initial steps detract from the experience, with occasional trail closures also noted.
"Maybe the trail was beautiful once upon a time. Today, a large part is closed, the hike takes place on asphalt. The 135 steps at the beginning are not suitable for everyone, nor for all children as indicated. Uneven and very high steps. There are surely more beautiful hikes to do in the Basque country."
Jocelyne Boisson
"Superb walk, beautiful viewpoint"
Sophie B
"It is a path that allows you to discover beautiful viewpoints and beautiful beaches even if it actually passes more and more through tarmac roads."
Jacek Maslo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The path is accessible from Bidart town center. You can reach Bidart by bus from Biarritz or Bayonne. If arriving at Biarritz Airport, local buses can connect you to the coastal path area.
Yes, the Bidart Coastal Path is part of the Voie Littoral, which connects to the Camino del Norte. You can indeed walk from Biarritz towards Irun, though markings can vary.
Limited parking is available in Bidart, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport. :car:
The Voie Littoral is a long-distance coastal hiking route in France, and the Bidart Coastal Path is a segment of this scenic trail. :hiking_boot:
Bus services connect towns like Bidart, Guéthary, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, allowing you to hop on and off the trail. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Bidart Coastal Path is a public trail and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to explore. :ticket:
The coastal path is generally accessible year-round, from dawn till dusk. However, specific sections might be temporarily closed due to safety concerns. :clock:
The full length can be challenging for a single day, especially with stops. Many visitors opt for shorter sections or use public transport to cover longer distances. :stopwatch:
While not as common as in major cities, local tourist offices might offer information on guided walks, especially during peak season. :guide_dog:
While some sections are well-marked, having an offline map or GPS track is recommended, especially if you plan to deviate or if sections are closed. :iphone:
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The terrain varies significantly. Expect paved sections, dirt paths, and a notable set of 135 steep steps at the beginning. Some areas can be muddy after rain.
The initial 135 steps are very steep and high, making it unsuitable for many young children. Some paved sections are easier, but overall, caution is advised.
Yes, the path offers access to beautiful beaches and coves where swimming is possible, though conditions can vary.
Signage can be inconsistent. While some parts are clear, it's wise to have a map or GPS, especially as sections can be closed or rerouted.
You'll likely see seabirds along the coast. Keep an eye out for marine life in the clear waters, especially during calmer periods. :bird:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the path passes through several towns like Bidart and Guéthary, which offer numerous restaurants, cafes, and creperies.
Enjoy Basque specialties like pintxos (tapas), fresh seafood, and local cider (cidre). Don't miss out on delicious crepes. :croissant:
Absolutely! There are many scenic spots with benches or grassy areas perfect for a picnic lunch with a view. :sandwich:
Most restaurants will have some vegetarian options, and you can often find vegetable-based pintxos or crepes. Vegan options might require specific requests. :leafy_green:
Look for busy local spots in the towns along the path. Online reviews and asking locals can also point you to hidden gems. :star:
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints overlooking the dramatic cliffs, the turquoise coves, and the charming Basque architecture in the towns. Sunrise and sunset offer magical light.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light and fewer crowds. The golden hour can create stunning shots of the coastline. :sunriseovermountains:
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens can be great for landscapes. :camerawithflash:
Always check local regulations regarding drone usage in coastal and urban areas to avoid fines. :drone:
The dramatic cliffs, the unique architecture of the Basque villages, and the expansive ocean views are all iconic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. Don't forget to explore the picturesque streets and harbors of Bidart, Guéthary, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz for unique cultural shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Bidart Coastal Path
It's crucial to stay informed about trail conditions. Landslides are a recurring issue, leading to temporary closures that can disrupt planned routes. Checking local advisories or asking at tourist information centers is highly recommended before embarking. For those seeking a continuous walk, the path connects to the Camino del Norte, allowing for extended pilgrimage or hiking experiences.
While the path is generally free to access, services like restrooms and cafes are concentrated in the towns it passes through, such as Bidart, Guéthary, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Carrying sufficient water and snacks is advisable, especially for longer stretches between villages.
Experiencing Basque Culture Along the Coast
These towns provide ample opportunities to sample local gastronomy. Look for traditional Basque pintxos (small snacks), fresh seafood caught daily, and regional specialties like poulet basquaise. Don't miss trying the local cider (cidre) or the sweet Basque cake (gâteau basque). Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere while enjoying delicious food.
Beyond the food, the architecture, language, and local festivals (if your timing aligns) offer glimpses into the unique identity of the Basque Country. The blend of French and Spanish influences creates a distinct cultural tapestry that makes this coastal walk particularly memorable.
Photography Opportunities on the Path
Beyond the natural landscapes, the charming Basque villages offer picturesque scenes with their colorful houses, traditional architecture, and bustling harbors. Capturing the essence of these towns, from narrow streets to lively squares, adds a cultural dimension to your photos. The beaches and coves accessible from the path also present opportunities for serene shots, especially during the softer light of sunrise or sunset.
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. This is when the light is most flattering, casting a warm glow over the landscape and creating dramatic shadows. While a smartphone can capture beautiful images, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for encompassing the vast coastal panoramas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit