Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

During your vacation in the Basque Country, and in particular camping Hendaye Eskualduna, you can take advantage of its geographical location to discover the region and its must-sees. These include the village of Saint Jean Pied de Port (Donibane Garazi in Basque), one of the ” Most Beautiful Villages in France ” and the only one to date in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department. This magnificent village of almost 2000 souls is a major stopover on the pilgrimage to Compostela, before crossing the Pyrenees. Every year, some 60,000 pilgrims make the journey from the French Basque Country to the Spanish Basque Country, stopping off in this astonishing village.

Camping Eskualduna near Saint Jean Pied de Port on the Basque Coast

Our campsite is on the beach at Hendaye (with free shuttle bus in season) at in the heart of the Basque Country. For your stay in Saint Jean Pied de Port, you’ll find all the information you need. facilities for your comfort including a grocery store, a restaurant and a two-basin pool and wifi internet access.

In the footsteps of Roland’s song

The village of Saint Jean Pied de Port lies between the Nive river and the foothills of the Cize mountain passes. These passes are better known as the “Col de Ronceveau“. According to legend, it was here that the army of Roland, a Frankish knight, clashed with that of the Vascons, an Iberian people confused in song with the Saracens. The battle of Roncesvalles in 778 is emblematic and appears to be an important source for the creation of the kingdom of Navarre in 824. Saint Jean Pied de Port became a stronghold.

To find out more about the village’s eventful history: the Saint Jean Pied de Port website

Visit to Saint Jean Pied de Port

What to see and do in Saint Jean Pied de Port? For lovers of heritage and history, the village offers plenty to see. Notre-Dame Church, built in the 14th century, is a jewel of the Radiant Gothic style. It stands on the banks of the River Nive, simple and elegant with its pink sandstone pillars and ribbed vaults. Its offset bell tower serves as a gateway to the south of the village. It’s a must for Compostelle pilgrims.

The Porte Saint Jacques is historically the pilgrims’ entrance to the village. The fortified gate, built along with the ramparts against the Spanish invasions, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The adjoining walkway leads to the Notre-Dame church and offers a wonderful way to explore the village.

The citadel of Saint jean Pied de Port dominates the village from all its height and power. The edifice was built in 1628, under Richelieu, to replace the former fortified castle of the Kings of Navarre. The Wars of Religion, and above all the risk of Spanish invasion, led to the construction of this fortified town. The citadel and its defenses were subsequently redesigned by Vauban.