Hendaye Plage, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Hendaye - by aperez1121 from Pixabay
Description
Hendaye is a town in the French Basque Country, at the border with Spain (one can just drive across the bridge) from which it is separated by the river Bidassoa. It is split into three areas: the town (around the train station), the "heights" where the campings are, and Hendaye Plage (the beach area). It became popular around the same time as Biarritz, in the later part of te 19th century before slowly falling out of fashion until a major redevelopment and modernisation of the ocean-front started in the 1990's. The beach itself is about 3km long with golden sand, a large sandy inter-tidal area and moderate waves. The main icons are the old casino and the twin rocks (Les Jumeaux) at the northern end.
Access & Transport
The town is at the end of the train line coming from either Bordeaux or Toulouse / Pau. It is also easy convenient to drive there through either the A63 (exit #1) or the slower but very scenic way along the D912 and the Corniche from Saint Jean de Luz (or exit #2 from the A63). Alternatively, you could try flying into the San Sebastian airport which is just across the border (from the beach, you can literally see planes flying overhead before they land).
Instructions & Recommendations
We would recommend staying a few days to enjoy walks along the beach, playing in the sand, try surfing or body boarding, a drive up the Jaizkibel and a couple of evenings across the border in Hondarribia (small boat shuttles cross the Bidassoa from the harbour) or San Sebastian.
Environmental & Social
No carbon footprint linked to this activity. Some economic benefits to the local community but increased commercialization also has its drawbacks
Conclusion
Hendaye Plage and its beach are among our favourite spots in this part of France. There is a great family atmosphere, excellent infrastructure, the hinterland is full of gems on either side of the border, and Saint Jean de Luz and San Sebastian are only half an hour drive away.
Key positive
Very scenic and great for walks
Safe for families with moderate waves
Very large area to play with at low tide
Key negative
Expensive parking and scarcity of spaces in the peak season
Suitability
Suitable for all ages Access for visitors with reduced mobility isn't too challenging with only a few steps and even a ramp in some areas. Great flat promenade as well that wheelchair users can enjoy.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:5h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo