Ascain

Discover Ascain

A typical Basque village, Ascain nestles on the banks of the River Nivelle, at the foot of the Rhune, the last peak in the Pyrenees before the Atlantic. The site is remarkable not only for its setting, but also for the typically Labourdine architecture of its buildings. The village was built around its port on the River Nivelle, which remained active until 1920. From prehistoric remains to military structures, bridges, mills, washhouses and pediments,Ascain ‘s built heritage is rich and varied. Between the church and the pelota court, the town center boasts half-timbered houses with sculpted lintels. Along the various streams that feed the Nivelle, several washhouses have been beautifully restored. Numerous water mills were also used to process grain, tobacco and blacksmithing. A dozen of these buildings remain today and are a must-see during your Ascain camping vacation.

The village of Ascain has seen the birth of several pelota champions: it therefore retains numerous facilities, pediments and trinquets, and boasts the last remaining artisanal pelota factory. On the banks of the River Nivelle, next to the Roman bridge dating back to the 5th century, the village is also famous for a curious building known as “la maison du fou” (erroen etxea), built in the 1930s by an American film decorator in a highly unusual style inspired by Pueblo Indian villages. It played host to such international personalities as Charlie Chaplin, Marlène Dietrich, Louis Jouvet, Josephine Baker, Mistinguett, Maurice Ravel and Le Corbusier.

Ascain Pays Basque

Top 5 activities in Ascain

Located in the heart of the Basque Country, Ascain is a charming little town with a traditional pelota court, winding streets and houses with distinctive architecture. Come and take a breath of fresh air in Ascain during your stay in the Basque Country.

  • Take the La Rhune train, a genuine old-fashioned rack-and-pinion railway, and embark on a 35-minute ascent to the summit to discover the fabulous 360° panorama of the Basque coast and the Pyrenees mountain range. On Tuesdays, take part in a bird release with the Hegalaldia association;
  • Treat yourself to a gourmet moment at the Cidrerie Txopinondo and discover the flavors of Basque cider with a visit to the cellar. Introduce yourself to the rituals of cider tasting. We’ve fallen in love with this super-friendly place;
  • visit the Akerbeltz brewery, which has been brewing its own beers since 1990. Take a guided tour to learn more about the brewing process and the brewmaster, François Iraola. Finish off with a tasting session at the bar and a visit to the boutique;
  • discover the Lartigue 1910 workshop, a weaver-creator for 4 generations, which opens its doors to the public all year round except January, and is a local institution. Indulge yourself in the factory outlet and treat yourself to beautiful, solid, colorful linen;
  • Spend a day at the Sainte-Hélène equestrian center, a delight for young and old alike, with its superb site and warm welcome. Take a 1.5-hour horseback ride, or discover the pleasures of horseback riding with a team of friendly, highly available instructors.