Espelette village
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Espelette - by Gilles Perreal on Google
Description
Espelette is a village in the French Basque Country. It is well known for its traditional basque houses and the local peppers drying along the walls during the summer. It also has a castle and the interesting church of Saint Etienne to justify its popularity. The dried red peppers are used in the production of Bayonne ham and carry the name of the village: Piments d'Espelette.
Access & Transport
From Bayonne, drive to Hasparren on the D137 or the D932 until Ustaritz and from there the D88 or D20 until the village. The centre is a pedestrian zone, so you'll need to park on the outskirts (there are dedicated areas) and walk a few minutes. The txiktxak bus line #14 from Bayonne stops next to the village on the D918.
Instructions & Recommendations
The town is most attractive during the summer when the peppers are drying. We would suggest combining a visit there with the caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya or the La Rhune rack-train / hike.
Environmental & Social
The main activities in the city have a low carbon footprint. Tourism is a welcome injection of activity and revenues in the local rural economy even though there are some drawbacks to over-commercialization
Conclusion
The village of Espelette is definitely one of the prettiest within the French Basque Country. If you only have one day to spend exploring that region you may think of including it in your short list. Make sure to make time for a coffee or lunch and visit the church and/or the castle whilst you are there. Plenty of interesting souvenirs such as chilli flavoured chocolates and chilli powder.
Key positive
Very photogenic
Not a long drive from the seaside
Key negative
Feels quite touristy
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo