Basque Coast road trip: 6 must-see stops for your van or motorhome adventure

Between the wild Atlantic and lush green mountains, the Basque Coast captivates with its contrasting landscapes, vibrant Basque culture and colourful fishing villages. Here are 6 unmissable stops for a memorable road trip from Biarritz to Hendaye.

The Basque Coast is where the raw energy of the Atlantic meets the authentic charm of local traditions. In a van or motorhome, you can weave between dramatic cliffs, golden sandy beaches and picturesque ports, all while enjoying complete freedom. Ready to explore a region where the sun sets into the ocean and waves keep surfers dancing all year round? Here’s our pick of the places you simply must discover.

Rocher de la Vierge

A symbol of Biarritz, this rock is reached via a metal bridge and offers an unbeatable view of the ocean and coastline. It’s the perfect spot to watch waves crashing against the cliffs.

Where to sleep nearby

Seafront parking Biarritz Parking ★ 4 Ocean view, 15 min walk. Free parking for 1 hour, then paid. › Camping Le Pavillon Royal Campsite ★ 4 5-star seaside campsite with direct beach access. Pool, restaurant, 42 min walk. › Aire de Camping-Cars des Corsaires Motorhome area ★ 3.6 Overnight parking at €14, direct beach access. Tarmac surface, 48 min walk. › Parking to visit Biarritz Biarritz Parking ★ 5 Free and quiet parking near the centre. 27 min walk, limited to 6 m. › Parking with no restrictions or height limit Arcangues Parking ★ 4 Basque village parking with clean toilets. 7 min drive (6 km). ›

Phare de Biarritz

This iconic lighthouse, built in 1834, towers over the town and provides a 360-degree panoramic view. Climb its 248 steps for a truly breathtaking spectacle.

Where to sleep nearby

Free parking Biarritz Parking ★ 4.3 4 min walk from the centre, flat and stable ground. Ideal for exploring Biarritz without a car. › Quiet overnight parking Anglet Parking ★ 4.8 Free from November to May, by the beach. Suitable for motorhomes up to 7.5 m. › Camping Le Pavillon Royal Campsite ★ 4 5-star seaside campsite with direct beach access. Pool, restaurant, €20 deposit for the card. › Aire de Camping-Cars des Corsaires Motorhome area ★ 3.6 €14 per night, 27 min walk from the lighthouse. Direct beach access, tarmac surface. › Camping-Car Park Biarritz Motorhome area ★ 3.3 €15 per night, green setting 3 km from Biarritz. Electricity, water and waste disposal included, sloped ground. ›

La Rhune

Reachable by rack railway, this legendary summit stands at 905 metres and delivers an exceptional panorama of the coast and Pyrenees. A unique experience, even on misty days.

Where to sleep nearby

La Petite Rhune Campsite ★ 4.7 Quiet family campsite with pool, 1.5 km from La Rhune departure. 50 min walk, rated 4.7. › Mountain parking Sare Parking ★ 4.4 Spectacular views over the valleys, wild spot. 6 min drive, difficult access. › Parking quiet surrounded by trees Sare Parking ★ 4.8 Isolated parking with La Rhune views, steep track. 5 min drive, free. › Camping Goyenetche Campsite ★ 4.4 Authentic farm campsite, prices €8-23. 5 min drive, clean facilities. › Parking with streamside Sare Parking ★ 4.6 Forest picnic area with stream and tables. 5 min drive, free. ›

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

This charming port town wins hearts with its historic centre, sandy beach and warm atmosphere. Don’t miss a visit to Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Where to sleep nearby

Hegoa Surf Camp Campsite ★ 4.9 Surf camp 100 m from the beach, lively and friendly atmosphere. 4.9/5, 15 reviews, 5 min drive. › Camping Untxin Socoa Campsite ★ 4.7 Quiet family campsite 10-15 min from the beach and port. 4.7/5, 98 reviews, 40 min walk. › Street parking Saint-Jean-de-Luz Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking 5 min from the beach and 10 min from the centre. 4.5/5, 50 reviews, 9 min walk. › Camping Tamaris Campsite ★ 4.4 4-star campsite 50 m from Guéthary beach, heated pool. 4.4/5, 81 reviews, 5 min drive. › Paid parking free at night Ciboure Parking ★ 4.3 Parking by the bay, free overnight, direct beach access. 4.3/5, 28 reviews, 25 min walk. ›

Corniche Basque

This scenic road links Saint-Jean-de-Luz to Hendaye, hugging the cliffs. Stop at the viewpoints to take in the ocean and wild coves below.

Where to sleep nearby

Hegoa Surf Camp Campsite ★ 4.9 Surf camp 100 m from the beach, friendly atmosphere. 11 min drive (10 km), rated 4.9. › Camping Urlo Gaina Epherra Campsite ★ 4.7 Quiet family campsite with mountain views. 5 min drive (5 km), rated 4.7. › Shaded parking Saint-Barthélemy Parking ★ 5 Tarmac parking, quiet and shaded. 20 min drive (18 km), free. › Camping à la ferme — Ondres Campsite ★ 4.9 Farm campsite, natural setting near Ondres. 19 min drive (18 km), rated 4.9. › Hiking trail parking La Rhune Ascain Parking ★ 5 Hiking parking, peaceful setting with stream. 16 min drive (15 km), free. ›

Plage de Sokoburu

Located in Hendaye, this wild and untouched beach is a paradise for nature lovers. Its dunes and wooded surroundings make it a magical spot for a walk or picnic.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Urlo Gaina Epherra Campsite ★ 4.7 Family campsite with mountain views, 5 km from Sokoburu. Very reasonable prices, immaculate facilities. › Hegoa Surf Camp Campsite ★ 4.9 Surf camp 100 m from the beach, lively atmosphere. Shared kitchen and clean facilities, 10 km away. › Shaded parking Saint-Barthélemy Parking ★ 5 Quiet and shaded parking, 18 km away. Free, perfect for a discreet night in nature. › Camping à la ferme — Ondres Campsite ★ 4.9 Farm campsite, 5 min walk from Ondres centre. Peaceful garden, 18 km from Sokoburu. › Camping Untxin Socoa Campsite ★ 4.7 10 min walk from Socoa beach, 16 km away. Shaded pitches, brand-new facilities. ›

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