Biarritz and the Basque Coast by van: 6 must-see spots you can’t miss

Between the wild ocean and lush green mountains, the Basque Coast captivates with its breathtaking landscapes and unique atmosphere. Here are 6 magical places to explore by van or motorhome.

On the Basque Coast, every turn reveals a new vista: sheer cliffs, golden sandy beaches, colourful villages clinging to the hillsides. Biarritz, once the surfing capital of Europe, is the perfect starting point for discovering this region where the Atlantic Ocean meets Basque culture. Ready to hit the road? Here are 6 unmissable stops, all accessible by van or motorhome, for an unforgettable road trip between land and sea.

Rocher de la Vierge

A symbol of Biarritz, this rock is accessible via a metal bridge and offers an unrivalled view of the ocean and coastline. A must-do walk to watch the waves crash against the cliffs.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Le Pavillon Royal Campsite ★ 4 5-star seaside campsite with direct beach access. Swimming pool, restaurant, €20 deposit. › Seafront parking Biarritz Parking ★ 4 Remarkable ocean views, lulled by the waves. 15-minute walk to the town centre. › Parking with no restrictions or height limit Arcangues Parking ★ 4 Free, quiet parking near Arcangues. Clean toilets, supermarket nearby. › Aire de Camping-Cars des Corsaires Motorhome area ★ 3.6 Coastal aire at €14 per night, direct beach access. Tarmac surface, little shade. › Parking to visit Biarritz Biarritz Parking ★ 5 Free, quiet and secure urban parking. 27-minute walk to the Rocher. ›

Phare de Biarritz

Climb the 248 steps of this iconic lighthouse for a 360-degree view of the town, the ocean and the Pyrenees. A must to grasp the region’s maritime soul.

Where to sleep nearby

Free parking Biarritz Parking ★ 4.3 4-minute walk from the lighthouse, perfect for exploring Biarritz without a car. Flat, stable ground, free. › Camping Le Pavillon Royal Campsite ★ 4 5-star seaside campsite with direct beach access (€20 deposit). Swimming pool, restaurant, luxury feel. › Aire de Camping-Cars des Corsaires Motorhome area ★ 3.6 €14 per night, 27-minute walk, sea views and beach access. Tarmac surface, basic facilities. › Parking to visit Biarritz Biarritz Parking ★ 5 Free, quiet, close to the town centre and beach. Ideal for a discreet overnight van stay. › Camping-Car Park Biarritz Motorhome area ★ 3.3 €15 per night, green setting, 50-minute walk. Electricity and water included, near Cité de l'Océan. ›

La Rhune

Take the rack railway to the summit of this legendary peak, 905 metres above sea level. The panoramic views over the Basque Coast and the Pyrenees are breathtaking.

Where to sleep nearby

La Petite Rhune Campsite ★ 4.7 Family campsite with 24 pitches, swimming pool. 50-minute walk to La Rhune, quiet and well-rated. › Parking quiet surrounded by trees Sare Parking ★ 4.8 Secluded parking with views of La Rhune. 5-minute drive, narrow but passable track. › Camping Goyenetche Campsite ★ 4.4 Farm campsite, low prices (€8-23). 5-minute drive, clean facilities. › Picnic parking by stream Sare Parking ★ 4.7 Picnic area with fountains and a stream. 5-minute drive, ideal for vans and tents. › Mountain parking Sare Parking ★ 4.4 Wild spot with panoramic views. 6-minute drive, difficult access (steep slope). ›

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

This charming fishing port, with its colourful houses, is perfect for enjoying Basque tapas on a terrace. Don’t miss its fine sandy beach, ideal for a relaxing break.

Where to sleep nearby

Hegoa Surf Camp Campsite ★ 4.9 Surf camp 100m from the beach, youthful and friendly vibe. Shared kitchen, clean facilities (4.9/5, 15 reviews). › Camping Untxin Socoa Campsite ★ 4.7 Quiet family campsite 15 minutes from the beach, shaded. New, very clean facilities (4.7/5, 98 reviews). › Street parking Saint-Jean-de-Luz Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking 5 minutes from the beach and town centre. Large and flat, no height restrictions (4.5/5, 50 reviews). › Camping Tamaris Campsite ★ 4.4 4-star campsite 50m from Guéthary beach. Indoor pool, grassy pitches (4.4/5, 81 reviews). › Paid parking free at night Ciboure Parking ★ 4.3 Parking by the bay, free from 7pm to 9am. Direct access to beach and restaurants (4.3/5, 28 reviews). ›

Hendaye

On the Spanish border, this seaside resort combines vast beaches with a laid-back vibe. The Bay of Txingudi is a great spot for birdwatching or a bike ride.

Where to sleep nearby

Paying parking near beach Hendaye Parking ★ 4 Facing the port and 50m from the beach, free overnight (8pm-8:30am). 21-minute walk. › Camping Eskualduna Campsite ★ 4 4-star campsite with heated pool and beach shuttles. 42-minute walk (2km). › Autocaravan park txingudi Motorhome area ★ 4 Highly rated motorhome aire (433 reviews). 8-minute drive (7km). › Camping Aire Ona Campsite ★ 3.8 Shaded family campsite in the mountains, quiet and clean. 7-minute drive (6km). › Coastal view parking in Urrugne Parking ★ 4.6 Panoramic views of the ocean and bay, sloped ground. 6-minute drive (6km). ›

Les grottes de Sare

Explore these prehistoric caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A journey through time just 30 minutes from the coast, where you can discover exceptional cave paintings.

Where to sleep nearby

La Petite Rhune Campsite ★ 4.7 Family campsite with 24 pitches, swimming pool. 50-minute walk to the caves, ideal for Rhune hikes. › Aire De Camping Car Motorhome area ★ 3.5 Municipal aire at €10 per night, full facilities. 5-minute drive, close to Sare town centre. › Parking quiet surrounded by trees Sare Parking ★ 4.8 Secluded mountain parking with Rhune views. 35-minute walk, narrow track for vans. › Picnic parking by stream Sare Parking ★ 4.7 Natural picnic area with fountains and a stream. 5-minute drive, forest setting. › Camping Goyenetche Campsite ★ 4.4 Authentic farm campsite, €8-23. 31-minute walk, clean facilities. ›

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