Hondarribia – the hidden gem on the French border

Some places seem straight out of a fairy tale with knights and princesses, yet pulse with life and colour. One such place is Hondarribia, a small Basque town located right on the border with France, by the sea, where history blends seamlessly with the salty air and the scent of its flower-filled streets.

If in San Sebastián you feel cosmopolitan elegance, and in Bilbao the energy of modernity, in Hondarribia you will discover medieval charm and Basque authenticity. Here, every wooden balcony adorned with red geraniums seems to tell a story, and the old stone walls remind you of times when the town had to defend itself from invaders.

The Old Town and medieval walls

A stroll through the Old Town is like stepping back in time. Entering through the Puerta de Santa María, you find yourself in the heart of the fortified town, where small squares, churches, and narrow streets make you feel like you’ve walked onto a historical movie set. The Castle of Charles V (now a Parador Hotel) proudly watches over the town, and from the walls, you can enjoy spectacular views of the coast and France, just a few steps away across the river.

The fishing quarter and the maritime atmosphere

But Hondarribia is not just about history and ancient stone. Walk down to the fishing quarter, La Marina, and the atmosphere changes completely: colourful houses, charming restaurants, and terraces where locals gather for tapas and a glass of txakoli, the lightly sparkling Basque white wine. San Pedro Street is the heart of the neighbourhood, and summer evenings here are full of vibrant, friendly energy.

Beach and nature

For those who want to combine culture with relaxation, Hondarribia’s beach is surprisingly spacious and calm, perfect for a summer day. And for hiking enthusiasts, the coastal path to Cabo Higuer offers spectacular views over the Bay of Biscay and a direct connection with nature.

Why choose Hondarribia?

Because it is a place that has everything you could want for a perfect getaway:

• authentic medieval charm,
• a relaxed maritime atmosphere,
• Basque cuisine at its finest,
• stunning coastal landscapes.

Hondarribia is not just a destination, it’s an experience: one of those rare places that makes you feel as if you’ve discovered a well-kept secret of the Basque Country.