When you think of the Basque Country, the first city that often comes to mind is Biarritz. It must be said that with its privileged location, right on the Atlantic Ocean, Biarritz has many assets. But we mustn’t forget Bayonne. More discreet, although it is the economic capital of the region, this city with its red half-timbered houses exudes authentic charm. It is a must-see during a camping holiday in the Pyrénées-Orientales or a camping holiday in the south of the Landes.
Bayonne, City of Art and History at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers
From its source at the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, the Adour takes a detour through the Gers and Landes regions before ending its journey in Anglet in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Just a few kilometres before reaching the Atlantic Ocean, its waters are joined by those of the Nive, which flows down from the mountains of Basse-Navarre. The city of Bayonne developed at the confluence of the two rivers, at the crossroads of Pyrenean and Atlantic cultures. The Romans had already chosen this site to establish a port and a garrison camp. Commercial activity at this port boomed during the English domination under the Plantagenets. In the 15th century, when Bayonne became part of the Kingdom of France, the city became a stronghold and remained so until the dawn of the 20th century. The citadel and ramparts built by Vauban at the request of Louis XIV bear witness to Bayonne’s military past. Very well preserved and enhanced by green spaces, these ramparts are a pleasant place to stroll in Bayonne.
The Bayonne Festivals
Bayonne was awarded the label “City of Art and History” in 2011. This is largely thanks to its well-preserved old town, where Sainte-Marie Cathedral stands proudly. This beautiful Gothic cathedral, topped by two majestic spires, was built between the 13th and 16th centuries. It opens onto a superb cloister, the largest in France. From the cathedral, Rue du Port-Neuf leads to the banks of the Adour. This street is one of the most typical in the city. It is lined with arcaded houses that are home to artisans and café and restaurant terraces. If you are a chocolate lover, be sure to stop at Cazenave, a particularly renowned chocolatier in Bayonne. Take the time to stroll through the pedestrian streets of the old town and admire the beautiful facades of the half-timbered houses. One of the prettiest views is probably on the banks of the Nive, where tall houses huddle together. It’s the ideal spot for a souvenir photo of Bayonne to take home from your camping holiday in Bayonne with your caravan, tent or motorhome. If you have time, a visit to the Basque and Bayonne History Museum will allow you to learn a little more about the regional culture and the history of the city.
Bayonne, a city for food lovers
In addition to its architecture, Bayonne is also known for its many traditions and rich gastronomy, with its famous ham at the forefront. It is a must-try during any stay in the Basque Country. Protected by a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), this ham must comply with very specific specifications: selection of breeds, salting with Salies du Béarn salt and a minimum of 7 months of ageing. It is often enjoyed as tapas, accompanied by guindillas (mild peppers in vinegar), in the many bars of Bayonne. If you are a ham lover, choose to come camping in Bayonne during Holy Week. This is when the Bayonne Ham Fair is held, a gourmet and convivial event.
Bayonne’s other great gastronomic speciality is chocolate. Cocoa arrived in Bayonne in the 17th century in the suitcases of Jews expelled from Spain and Portugal. The presence of the port and intense trading activity then contributed to the development of chocolate-making in Bayonne. Since the 19th century, Bayonne has been considered the chocolate capital of France. This tradition has continued to this day, as evidenced by the many chocolate shops, patisseries and confectioneries that line the shopping arcades of Rue du Port-Neuf and the pedestrian streets of the old town. To learn more about Bayonne chocolate, you can take one of the guided tours organised by the tourist office or visit the chocolate museum. You can also plan your stay in the Pyrénées-Orientales around the dates of the Bayonne Chocolate Days. For three days in May, the city celebrates its chocolate with tours, tastings and more. Whatever happens, don’t forget to stock up on chocolate during your camping holiday in Bayonne, otherwise your friends might hold it against you!
The Bayonne Festivals
Let’s be clear. If you enjoy crowds of people who are more or less drunk and music until the early hours of the morning, the Bayonne Festival is for you. If, on the other hand, you want to visit Bayonne in peace, choose another date for your camping holiday in the Basque Country. For five days, on the last weekend of July, the city centre is closed to traffic and invaded by hundreds of thousands of people dressed in red and white to watch the Landes cow races, fireworks, Basque pelota tournaments, popular dances and concerts taking place all over the city. It’s a festive and friendly atmosphere with something for everyone. Unless, of course, you prefer peace and quiet!
Our campsites in Bayonne
A selection of campsites for caravans, tents or motorhomes near Bayonne.
Leave a Review