Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the inland Basque Coast: 5 must-sees by campervan

Between ocean, mountains and colourful villages, the inland Basque Coast charms with its varied landscapes and warm atmosphere. Here are 5 unmissable spots to visit by campervan or motorhome.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 24 September 2026

Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a gem of the Basque Coast, is far more than just a stopover. With its fine sandy beaches, sheer cliffs and traditional villages, this region offers breathtaking scenery and a rich culture, perfect for a campervan getaway. Here, you’ll drive between land and sea, discovering unspoilt natural sites and historic monuments. Ready to explore?

Plage de Saint-Jean-de-Luz

This long stretch of fine sand, edged by the bay, is ideal for a relaxing break or a barefoot stroll along the water. Its family-friendly vibe and gentle waves make it a perfect spot for beginner surfers.

Where to sleep nearby

Hegoa Surf Camp Campsite ★ 4.8 Surf camp 100 m from the beach, friendly vibe. Shared kitchen and clean toilets (4.8/5). › Camping Untxin Socoa Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly shaded campsite, 10 min walk from the beach. New, very clean facilities (4.7/5). › Street parking Saint-Jean-de-Luz Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking 5 min from the beach and town centre. Wide, flat road (4.4/5). › Paid parking free at night Ciboure Parking ★ 4.3 Free from 7 pm to 9 am, by the bay. Direct beach and shop access (4.3/5). › Camping Tamaris Campsite ★ 4.4 4-star campsite 50 m from Guéthary beach. Heated pool, grassy pitches (4.4/5). ›

Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this 17th-century Baroque church is an architectural masterpiece. Its opulent interior and ties to Louis XIV’s marriage make it a fascinating place to visit.

Where to sleep nearby

Hegoa Surf Camp Campsite ★ 4.8 Surf camp 100 m from the beach, friendly vibe. Shared kitchen and clean toilets, 4.8/5. › Camping Untxin Socoa Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly shaded campsite, 10 min walk from the beach. New facilities, 4.7/5, 35 min walk. › Paid parking free at night Ciboure Parking ★ 4.3 Free overnight parking by the bay. Direct beach and restaurant access, 22 min walk. › Street parking Saint-Jean-de-Luz Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking near the beach and historic centre. 5 min walk to the sea, 4.4/5. › Toilets parking Urrugne Parking ★ 4.2 Spacious area with free toilets and water. 5 min drive, slightly sloped parking. ›

La Rhune

Reachable by rack railway, this legendary peak offers stunning views over the Bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the Pyrenees. Whether you hike or take the train, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree panorama.

Where to sleep nearby

La Petite Rhune Campsite ★ 4.8 Family campsite with 24 pitches, pool, 1.5 km from Sare. Walking access to La Rhune, 4.8/5, 50 min walk. › Parking with streamside Sare Parking ★ 4.6 Picnic area in the forest, stream, tables. Large, quiet space, 5 min drive, 4.6/5. › Mountain parking Sare Parking ★ 4.5 Panoramic views over the valleys, wild spot. Difficult access, 6 min drive, 4.5/5. › Camping d'Ibarron Campsite ★ 4.3 3-star campsite, heated pool, shaded pitches. 8 min drive, 4.3/5. › Hiking trail parking La Rhune Ascain Parking ★ 5 GR10 trailhead parking, stream audible. Peaceful setting, 46 min walk, 5/5. ›

Sare

This Basque village, ranked among France’s most beautiful, charms with its colourful houses and mountain setting. Don’t miss the Sare Caves, a spectacular natural site to explore.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Uhaitza le Saison Campsite ★ 3.8 Family campsite by the River Nive, pool and swimming. 8 min drive, 3.8/5 (31 reviews). › Technical high school parking Mauléon-Licharre Parking ★ 4.7 Quiet parking near the school, ideal for one night. 5 min drive, free, 4.7/5. › Parking with picnic tables Chéraute Parking ★ 4.7 Rural rest area with tables and toilets. 49 min walk, free, picturesque setting. › Parking facing the cemetery L'Hôpital-Saint-Blaise Parking ★ 4.4 Parking opposite the cemetery, peaceful village. 6 min drive, free, 4.4/5 (17 reviews). › Le Village, L'Hôpital-Saint-Blaise Parking ★ 4.3 Tarmac parking near a listed Romanesque church. 5 min drive, free, drinking water. ›

Phare de Biarritz

A symbol of the town, this iconic lighthouse overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and offers exceptional views of the Basque Coast. A must-visit to understand the region’s maritime history.

Where to sleep nearby

Aire de Camping-Cars des Corsaires Motorhome area ★ 3.5 Beach 2 steps away, €14 per night. Tarmac ground, sea views and direct access. › Camping Le Pavillon Royal Campsite ★ 4 5-star seaside campsite, pool. Direct beach access, 5 km from the lighthouse. › Parking to visit Biarritz Biarritz Parking ★ 4.9 Free, quiet and close to the centre. 25 min walk, secure for vans. › Camping-Car Park Biarritz Motorhome area ★ 3.3 €15 per night, electricity and water included. Green setting, 3 km from the lighthouse, bus 500 m away. › Free indicated parking entrance Biarritz Parking ★ 4.1 Free, 25 spaces in a green area. Public toilets, 46 min walk from the lighthouse. ›

Rocher de la Vierge

This iconic rock, accessible via a metal bridge, is home to a statue of the Virgin Mary and offers a breathtaking view of the bay. A magical spot for watching the sunset.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Le Pavillon Royal Campsite ★ 4 5-star seaside campsite, direct beach access. Modern facilities, pool, restaurant (€20 deposit). › Aire de Camping-Cars des Corsaires Motorhome area ★ 3.5 Coastal area at €14 per night, direct beach access. Tarmac, sloped, little shade. › Parking with no restrictions or height limit Arcangues Parking ★ 4 Free parking in a typical Basque village, 7 min drive. Clean toilets, supermarket nearby. › Parking to visit Biarritz Biarritz Parking ★ 4.9 Free urban parking, quiet despite the road. 27 min walk to the centre, secure. › Camping Biarritz Campsite ★ 3.5 4-star campsite 31 min walk away, heated pool. Modern facilities, on-site restaurant/snack bar. ›

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