France > France regions > Aquitaine > Pyrenees-Atlantiques > Hendaye

Hendaye

Hendaye is the last town that you come to before reaching Spain when travelling along the coast of south-west France - it stands on the right bank of the Bidassoa river that marks the frontier.

The resort has a long beach, and also an active port, and is popular with visitors.

There are perhaps rather more high-rise (not especially beautiful) apartments in Hendaye than in some of the more recently developed resorts further north up the coast...

...but on the other hand, Hendaye has been a historically important frontier town for many centuries (especially before the Treaty of the Pyrenees was signed on the island in the river in 1659), is more of a year-round town than some, and has some features of historical interest, such as the Great Cross of Hendaye in the main square, and nearby Chateau d'Abbadia.

The most interesting part of the town itself is on the hill behind the seafront, with views across the sea and also to the Pyrenees that start just inland.

The 'resort' part of Hendaye has a long beach popular with sunbathers and windsurfers alike.

The easy access to Spain and the chances for cheap shopping (and, at the time of writing, cheaper petrol) are another attraction of the border.

Chateau d'Abbadia

A popular attraction close to Hendaye, the Chateau d'Abbadia was constructed in the 19th century by renowned architect Viollet-le-Duc in a 'neo-gothic' style to look medieval, and furnished throughout in an oriental style. The castle also incorporates a large observatory, that can still be seen and used, and astronomy related tours and events are often available.

 

Hendaye: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites

PLAN A VISIT TO HENDAYE Hotels Hendaye See Hotels in France Holiday rentals / travel See Aquitaine gites Car hire Property for sale Hendaye Aquitaine property for sale PLACES TO VISIT NEAR HENDAYE Explore places near Hendaye

PV Holidays, Hendaye

[Hendaye] Residence Maeva Le Sokoburu: Right beside the beach and the port; Residence with pool; Very close to the thalassotherapy centre Serge Blanco

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Places to visit - Hendaye

Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map: Hendaye.

Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Hendaye are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)

• Biarritz Atlantic resort and surf capital at 27 km
• Ciboure Atlantic town and resort at 12 km
• Hondarribia Medieval town in Spain at 2 km
• La Rhune Basque mountain at 16 km
• Saint Jean de Luz Coastal town and resort at 13 km
• Sare Most beautiful village at 22 km

- See also Hendaye (version Francais)

 

Tourist Classifications for Hendaye

- approved Station Classée - resort paying particular attention to facilities for tourism

 

Information and photos

This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Hendaye when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.