Hondarribia
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Hondarribia - by Angel Castllanos G. on Google
Description
Hondarribia or Fuenterrabía is a town situated at the border with France, across the Bidassoa river and Txingudi Bay from the seaside resort of Hendaye. It is popular for its old fishermen's quarter with houses painted in traditional Basque colours and restaurants serving both cooked dishes and pintxos. About 5mins walk away (to the south) is the old quarter with the remnants of the medieval wall, the church of Santa María de la Asunción, the Zuloaga Palace (now housing the library) and the Castillo de Carlos V repurposed as a Parador (luxury hotel).
Access & Transport
The town is directly north of Irun with its train station linked to both the Spanish and the French railways and it is 20km northeast of San Sebastian. The San Sebastian airport is located within Hondarribia municipality. There is a regular boat shuttle between the port and the Hendaye Marina; the crossing only lasts 5mins and frequency depends on the season.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest timing your visit to enjoy a dinner there or an ice cream (in the summer). It is best combined with a ride / drive /hike up the Jaizkibel for stunning views across the French coastline.
Environmental & Social
Most activities in town have a low carbon footprint. Tourism provides some economic benefits but has triggered an increasing commercialization
Conclusion
Hondarribia makes for a good afternoon/evening out for those based in San Sebastian or the French Basque Country and looking for a seaside setting with a dash of colour, old buildings, and a good range of pintxos bars/restaurants.
Key positive
Quaint streets and restaurants
Key negative
No standout sight
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:2h 15m
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo