Hendaye hotels

What are the best champagne houses to visit in Épernay?

Épernay is famous for its prestigious champagne houses and vineyards. On the Avenue de Champagne, you’ll find renowned houses such as Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, and Mercier, all offering tours of their cellars and tastings. For a more intimate experience, you can also visit family-owned houses like Champagne Janisson-Baradon, Roger Coulon, and Champagne André Clouet, located in the surrounding villages. These smaller houses often offer more personalized tastings and the opportunity to discover unique champagnes.

What are the best activities to do in Hendaye?

Hendaye offers a wide range of activities. The beach in Hendaye is a must-visit for those looking to relax or enjoy water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking. The Abbadia Castle, located on a promontory overlooking the ocean, is an interesting site for history and neo-Gothic architecture enthusiasts. The hiking trails in the Abbadia nature reserve are ideal for nature lovers, offering panoramic views and varied wildlife. You can also enjoy a river cruise on the Bidasoa or take a ferry to Hondarribia, a charming Spanish village just across the border.

What is the best time of year to visit Épernay?

The best time to visit Épernay depends on your interests. The grape harvest season in September and October is especially interesting, as you can see winemakers at work and participate in local events. December is also magical with the “Habits de Lumière” festival, which lights up Épernay with illuminations, fireworks, and activities on the Avenue de Champagne. Spring (May-June) is a pleasant season with mild temperatures and lush vineyards. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, although there may be more tourists.

What is the best time to visit Hendaye?

The best time to visit Hendaye is from May to October when temperatures are pleasant, and sunny days are ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. In summer, the town is livelier with events like the Fête de la Mer in August. For a quieter experience, consider late spring or early fall, when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. Although winter is quieter, it’s still pleasant for seaside walks and cultural visits.

What are the must-see and must-do activities in Épernay and its surroundings?

Épernay is an ideal starting point for discovering Champagne’s rich heritage. The Avenue de Champagne is a must-see, where you can visit prestigious champagne houses and admire historic buildings. Don’t miss the cellar tours, some of which are dug dozens of meters underground. Nature lovers will enjoy the surrounding vineyards, accessible by hiking or cycling paths. Nearby, the Montagne de Reims offers stunning views and charming wine-growing villages like Hautvillers, famous for its connection to Dom Pérignon. The Museum of Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology is also a great addition for learning about the history and techniques of champagne-making.

What are the recommended accommodations in Hendaye?

Hendaye offers a variety of accommodations for all budgets. For a seaside stay, hotels like Hôtel Ibaia and Hôtel Bellevue are well-located with ocean views. For more budget-friendly options, hostels and guesthouses like Villa Goxoa or the Mer et Golf residence offer good value. If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, the Serge Blanco resort with its spa services is a great option. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season.

What transportation options are available to get to Épernay and to get around the town?

To get to Épernay, taking the train is convenient from Paris (about a 1 hour 15 minute trip) or Reims (about 30 minutes). By car, Épernay is easily accessible from the A4 motorway, with parking options available in the town. Once in Épernay, most tourist sites are within walking distance, especially around the Avenue de Champagne. Bicycles and electric scooters are also available for rent to explore the surroundings. If you’d like to discover the nearby vineyards, you can also book a guided tour with included transportation or rent a car.

How can I get around in Hendaye and its surroundings?

Hendaye is a walkable town, especially along the beach and in the center. To explore nearby areas, buses and trains connect Hendaye to major Basque towns like Bayonne and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. A ferry service allows you to reach Hondarribia in Spain in a few minutes. Bike and car rentals are available for those wanting to explore further. Hendaye also has a TGV train station and the Euskotren line, which connects to San Sebastián in Spain.

Are there accommodation options for all budgets in Épernay?

Épernay offers a wide range of accommodations for all budgets. For a luxurious stay, prestigious hotels like the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa or La Villa Eugène provide a refined setting with high-end services. For comfort at a moderate price, options such as Hôtel Jean Moët or Ibis Styles Épernay Centre are available. There are also bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals in the surrounding villages, perfect for a Champagne immersion. For a budget-friendly stay, hotels like B&B Hôtel Épernay and some youth hostels offer affordable rates without sacrificing comfort.

What are the best places to experience Basque cuisine?

To enjoy Basque cuisine in Hendaye, the local market is a great starting point, offering fresh and regional products like Ossau-Iraty cheese, charcuterie, and pastries. The Halles district features several typical bistros and cafés. Restaurants such as La Poissonnerie and Les Jardins de Bakea are well-regarded for their traditional Basque dishes and seafood. For an authentic culinary experience, also try pintxos, Basque-style tapas, in the town’s tapas bars or in Hondarribia, which is accessible via the ferry.