Popular camping styles for Hendaye
Beach camping near Hendaye guide
Overview
If you can’t decide between mountains, ocean, or river, Hendaye might be the perfect choice for your camping holiday destination. Sitting pretty at the mouth of the Bidasoa River, right on the border of France and Spain, this picturesque seaside resort has both Atlantic Coast beaches and a backdrop of the Pyrenees Mountains. Immerse yourself in Basque culture as you explore the atmospheric Old Town, hike the coastal path in Domaine d’Abbadia park, and visit Abbadia Castle, then hit the beach to swim and surf. Camping options abound, from family-friendly campsites and caravan parks to eco-cabins, mobile homes, and glampsites.
Where to go
Basque Coast
It’s all about the surf along the Atlantic Coast, and the Basque Coast resorts of Biarritz, Bidart, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz boast some of France’s best waves. Take your pick of sandy beaches and coastal hikes, or head inland to visit the traditional Basque towns of Espelette, Bastide-Clairence, or Bayonne.
Spanish Basque Country
Hendaye is ideally situated for day trips across the Spanish border. Ferries run across the water to the fishing village of Hondarribia, or else drive your campervan across the border and set out for the coastal city of San Sebastián, famously the foodie hub of Spanish Basque Country. Further along the coast, Bilbao has mountain hikes and vineyards on its doorstep.
Pyrénées-Atlantiques
The southernmost department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine is dominated by the Pyrénées mountains, which rise up to the east of Hendaye and ramble along the border of France and Spanish. Rent a cosy chalet in the mountains or pitch your tent in the backcountry, and set out to hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride along miles of forest trails and mountain valleys.
When to go
Summer brings crowds of holidaymakers to Hendaye, and there are events and festivals held almost every week through peak season—the Hendaye Summer Festival (July) and the Basque Festival (August) are annual favourites. Beach days are most enjoyable from June through September when the main beaches are patrolled and children's clubs provide beachside activities and animations, and many campgrounds close from November through March.
