The Crests of Iparla hike
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Crêtes d’Iparla - by Christophe Blanc on Google
Description
The Crests of Iparla hike consists in a 14km loop starting near Saint Étienne de Baïgorry, not far from Saint Jean Pied de Port in the French Basque Country. Total cumulative ascent is about 900m with the highest point being the Iparla Peak at the border between France and Spain. From there, hikers can follow the ridge for a while and will enjoy panoramic views all the way to the Atlantic Ocean
Access & Transport
Departure is from Urdoz, 3km north of Saint Étienne de Baïgorry - on the D15 through Irouleguy when driving from Saint Jean Pied de Port (use the D932 through Ustaritz and the D918 after Cambo les Bains or the D21/22 through Hasparren to get there).
Instructions & Recommendations
Make sure to have proper footwear and bring some snacks (and possibly a picnic), plenty of water, sun protection and rain/wind coat depending on the weather forecast. We strongly recommend you check your map / itinerary beforehand as well.
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity. Brings some revenues to the villages in the valley
Conclusion
The hike to the Iparla Peak and along the ridge is not very well known but is visually extremely rewarding - even though this is not the high mountain. It is best done as a combination with a discovery of the surrounding villages and countryside to make it a full day outing.
Key positive
Fantastic views of the Basque Country on a clear day
Reasonable driving distance from the coast for a change from the beach / seaside
Key negative
Not well marked
Suitability
Best for those aged between 8 and 70 and with an intermediate level of fitness
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 30m
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo