Visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz DURING YOUR HOLIDAYS ON THE BASQUE COAST

Saint-Jean-de-Luz (in Basque Donibane Lohizune) is a medium-sized town (14,000 inhabitants) that has managed to preserve its authenticity. One of its assets is its geographical location on the Atlantic Ocean and at the foot of the Pyrenees. This unique environment allows visitors to enjoy the beaches and to go hiking in the mountains, activities that are made all the more enjoyable with the area’s mild climate.

The other important asset is the beautiful town centre with its exceptional urban heritage. The inevitable modernization that has taken place over time have never detracted from the architectural heritage of the past, particularly that of the 17th century. The two jewels from this period are the Maison de l’Infante and the Maison de Louis XIV. Two names in remembrance of an event that today we would describe as being a European event, namely the marriage of Louis XIV with the Infanta of Spain in 1660, which contributed greatly to the national and international fame of the city.

This historic environment gives a very special character to the dense urban centre and serves to make it the most popular destination in southern Aquitaine all year round. Saint-Jean-de-Luz also has two other major assets: its port and its bay. The first, as we know, is very appealing to visitors. The second has a unique quality as it is the only sheltered bay between Arcachon and Spain. A “comfort” much appreciated by swimmers and a natural coastal jewel that can appreciated from the top of the Sainte-Barbe hill.

Rue Gambetta, which is well-known for its shops and stores, is another major appeal, including at weekends. This seductive combination means that Saint-Jean-de-Luz receives visitors from both France and abroad throughout the year and not just during the inevitable peak of the summer period.

You will find a number of points of interest during your stay including :

5 beaches :

• he large beach with the bay protected by several dikes and with Handiplage and Audioplage status
• Erromardie beach
• Lafitenia beach
• Mayarko Beach
• Cenitz beach

Two markets :

• Covered market every morning.
• Outdoor food market every Tuesday and Friday morning around the covered market.

Gastronomy and specialities :

Basque gastronomy is known by all for its generosity and quality. A large number of restaurants are ready to welcome you to enjoy this tasty local cuisine. You will be able to sample grilled chipiron (cuttlefish), koskera (hake), axoa (minced veal), ttoro (a kind of fish soup), zikiro (grilled lamb), txuleta (beef chop), ardi gasna (sheep’s cheese), Basque cake… and much more besides.

We recommend these specialities from Saint Jean de Luz  –  a great gift or treat for the family :

• Adam’s macaroons: maisonadam.fr/
• The mouchous and the Kanouga from Maison Pariès: paries.fr/

Websites with information about the city, activities, visits … :

www.terreetcotebasques.com and www.saint-jean-de-luz.com

Saint-Jean-de-Luz : (to visit)

• Maison Louis XIV (Lohobiague-Enea) : www.maison-louis-xiv.fr/
• La maison de l’infante (Joanoenia)
• Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church : www.saint-jean-de-luz.com/fr/18303-glise%20saint-jean-baptiste/
• The Botanical Garden : www.saintjeandeluz.fr/fr/a-voir-a-faire/jardin-botanique/

Saint-Jean-de-Luz : (to see and do)