Itxassou
Discover Itxassou
Located just a few kilometers from Cambo-les-Bains and Espelette, Itxassou is a traditional Basque village that has preserved its authenticity. Surrounded by legends, it is home to the Pas-de-Roland, a rock on the banks of the River Nive that is said to have been broken by the hoof of Roland’s horse as he crossed the Pyrenees. Other versions say that Roland himself dug the rock with his sword Durandal. During a camping holiday in Itxassou in the Basque Country, take a stroll along the River Nive towards Mount Artzamendi to admire this natural curiosity, and even, outside flood periods, to pass through the hole in the rock. Nestled in an exceptional natural setting, Itxassou is the starting point for numerous hikes and walks to Mount Atharri, the ruins of the Mondarrain fortress, and the remarkable views from the top of Mount Artzamendi, overflown by vultures.
In the center of the village, the 17th-century Saint-Fructueux church boasts exceptional carved wooden furnishings and three floors of galleries. On the pleasant Place du Fronton, a village discovery center invites you to learn more about Itxassou’s cultural and historical heritage, the surrounding flora and fauna and, of course, the famous Itxassou cherry: in recent years, young farmers have revived production of this emblematic local fruit. Grouped together in an association, they are working to preserve old varieties. The cherry orchard invites you to discover the famous Itxassou cherry, its history, its cultivation and its different varieties.
Top 5 things to do in Itxassou
Hike to the summit of Artzamendi
Starting from Itxassou, grab a map and your hiking boots and embark on a beautiful hike to Artzamendi, which rises to over 900 meters. You’ll enjoy a beautiful variety of landscapes and a superb view of the Pyrenees between France and Spain. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy an even clearer panorama.
Visit Pas de Roland
Drive through the village of Itxassou to reach this natural site, which nestles along a steep road following the River Nive. According to legend, Pas de Roland is a rock pierced by Roland, Charlemagne’s nephew, who perforated the rock blocking his path. A visit to Pas de Roland is a pleasant family outing along the river.
Taste the famous Itxassou black cherry
Called “the black gold of the Basque Country”, the Itxassou cherry is one of a kind. Xapata, peloa, beltxa or garoa, several local varieties of this early cherry are found side by side. Come and discover it at the Itxassou village conservatory orchard, set up in 2008 by an association of producers. Savour the incomparable taste of these rare berries.
Discover the Rabbit Forest
Animal lovers will discover a heavenly home for rabbits and guinea pigs. Observe them on a guided or self-guided tour, and stay in tune with the natural world around you. Discover the history of the rabbit, which dates back hundreds of thousands of years. You can picnic on site and, why not, adopt a rabbit. Admission €7 for adults and €4 for children under 5.
Learn about bees with the Apiculteur d’Itxassou
Experience the authentic taste of honey from the bees of professional beekeeper Jean-Claude Salles, who will shed fascinating light on the honey-making process. Transhumance of his 400-odd hives between spring and autumn, from the mountains of the Basque country to the hillsides of Béarn, harvesting, extraction and preparation of the honey: