While staying at our campsite in Espelette, be sure to visit Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the jewel in the Basque Country’s interior. Nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees, this emblematic medieval town is a must-see for lovers of heritage, nature and gastronomy.
Discover Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
during your camping holiday
Basque cultural and sporting center. A legendary city that has retained the incomparable authenticity that has earned it worldwide renown.
The medieval town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, in the interior of the Basque Country, at the foot of the mountains and the Pyrenees, is a must for your stay in the Basque Country.
From the top of the ramparts, the citadel keeps watch. Built on the site of the former stronghold of the kings of Navarre, the citadel towers over the town by more than 70 meters, and is an integral part of the network of Places Fortes in the Western Pyrenees.
The St Jacques gate
Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1998, it is the historic entrance for pilgrims on their way to Compostela.
Listed as one of “France’s most beautiful villages“, the town is best known for its strategic position at the crossroads of the Basque valleys and as the gateway to the famous Pilgrim ‘s Way to Santiago de Compostela.
Many pilgrims set off from here to begin the journey across the Pyrenees to Compostela, following an age-old tradition.
This is one of the fortified gates of the medieval town of Saint-Pied-de-Port.
Pilgrimage
to Santiago de Compostela
The Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela
The Camino de Santiago was originally a Catholic pilgrimage to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
The Route of Santiago de Compostela is the route that begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France, at the foot of the Pyrenees, and ends in Santiago de Compostela: a distance of 876 km.
Espadrilles Don Quichosse
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port also seduces with its craftsmanship and flavours. Espadrilles made in the purest tradition, from the models of our ancestors to the most up-to-date. You’ll find a huge choice in this store. The products come directly from the company. It’s not just a retail outlet: you’ll also find a small museum, free of charge, where you can learn all about the history of the espadrille.
Maison Barbier Millox
Located in the town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the Barbier Millox house has been preparing the unmissable Basque cherry and cream cakes for 3 generations, in the pure tradition of artisan pastry-makers, as well as home-made sweets in a wide range of flavors: cherry, manzana, yellow and green izarra, and home-made ice creams.
Arrambide Restaurant
Philippe Arrambide, Michelin-starred chef, works with exceptional products, in tune with the seasons. Driven by his passion, he is constantly researching and experimenting for days on end with new creations.
His aim: to surprise you with a masterful search for textures, unmistakable combinations and refined dishes, while preserving the flavours of the products.
The products are exceptionally fresh and selected from local producers or from other regions when necessary.
Tourism in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port offers a subtle balance of heritage, spirituality, craftsmanship and gourmet pleasures, perfect for enriching your stay in the Basque Country.
