Espelette, a village full of color and flavor, stands out for its superb facades adorned with strings of red peppers. Just a stone's throw from the ocean and close to Navarre, this Labourd village, once a fortress and seigneury attached to the kingdom of Navarre, has reinvented itself over the decades. With a population of over 2,000, Espelette has seen its economy, originally agricultural, transformed by tourism. World-renowned for its famous red peppers, nicknamed "red gold", the village is also known for its charming surroundings, typical habitat and unspoilt nature. Discover Espelette's 9 must-sees, places and activities that will make you fall under the spell of this Basque gem.
1. Stroll through the center of Espelette
Strolling through the center of Espelette is a unique sensory experience, as Espelette isn't one of France's most beautiful villages for nothing! Take time to wander through the picturesque streets lined with traditional Basque houses, whose red and white facades are adorned with strings of red chillies drying in the sun. These peppers, emblematic of the region, add a touch of vibrant color and a festive atmosphere to the village. In short, a stroll through the center of Espelette is a true immersion inone of the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country.
2. Visit the Church of Saint-Etienne, one of the most beautiful churches in the Basque Country
This church is often cited as one of the most beautiful in the Basque Country , and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the region. Its location near the small Romanesque bridge and the charming tree-lined cemetery, with its discoidal steles, already make it a real gem. The Renaissance bell tower is particularly noteworthy. Inside the church, don't miss the massive nave buttresses, the paneled pulpit, the gilded Baroque altarpiece with twisted columns and alcoves (17th century), and the three storeys of galleries.
3. Château d'Ezpeleta, a local landmark
Château d'Ezpeleta, the town's landmark, was built around the year 1000 by the barons of the same name and bequeathed to the people of Espelette in 1694 by Baroness Juliana Henriquez. In 1997, archaeological excavations uncovered the remains of a fortress dating back to the late Middle Ages. Listed as a Monument Historique, the château now houses permanent exhibitions, notably on Agnès Souret, the first Miss France, Father Armand David, the discoverer of the panda in China, and chilli peppers around the world.
4. Discover chilli cultivation at the PDO Piment d'Espelette interpretation center
Here you'll find everything you ever wanted to know aboutEspelette chilli pepper, nicknamed the "red gold" of the Basque country: its origins, cultivation, characteristics, variations (powder, spices, mustard...) and culinary uses. The producers' union has created an interpretation center dedicated to the development of chilli peppers. This space highlights the work of men and women, the terroir and the organoleptic characteristics of chillies. You can also download the PDO specifications.
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5. Stroll through the Arboretum du Père Armand David
Father Armand David, born in Espelette in 1826, was one of the greatest French naturalists of the 19th century. A renowned zoologist and botanist, he spent his life collecting animals, plants, rocks and fossils in China. Some 70 scientific identifications of plant species bear his name. To the Chinese, he is known as the father of the Panda. The commune has recently created a young arboretum, a specializedbotanical garden planted exclusively with Chinese trees. A walk not to be missed...
6. Buy chillies at Maison Bipertegia
Espelette chillies are grown in open fields, in harmony with the region's bioclimate.Maison Bipertegia takes natural care of its plants, from sowing to ripening. The peppers are then hand-picked and rigorously sorted one by one at every stage, from harvesting to processing into powder and various derivatives, all in their own workshop. Their producer is passionate about good taste, because they are the first consumers of their products and are proud to offer what they love to eat. You'll find quality, generosity and sound advice when you visit the store!
7. Take home souvenirs from Ttipia
Entering this magnificent boutique is a real pleasure for (re)discovering the Basque terroir (yes, Espelette is one of those towns renowned for its gourmet specialties!). You'll find a wide selection of local products at producer prices, including Bipia preserves made with Espelette chilli peppers, Arnabar duck products, Cave d'Irouléguy wines, honeys and jams. In the fresh produce section, you can sample hams and sausages. The store also offers high-quality Basque linen, including tablecloths, aprons, tea towels, bathroom linen, as well as artisanal cosmetics and soaps. The welcome is always charming, and you'll want to come back!
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8. Taste the local culinary specialties
During your visit to Espelette, be sure to sample the delicious local culinary specialties. Piment d'Espelette, the region's emblem, is found in many dishes, adding a spicy, savory touch. Enjoy chili-based preserves, such as those from Bipia, or traditional dishes such as poulet basquaise, in which the chili pepper is given pride of place. Charcuterie enthusiasts will be delighted to discover local hams and sausages, while gourmets can indulge in jams and honeys produced in the region. To accompany these dishes, be sure to try the wines of the Cave d'Irouléguy, which perfectly complement the Basque flavors.
Where to stay in Espelette?
If you're planning to stay in Espelette, here are a few accommodation options:
- The quietest: Le Moulin de Pascale
Bookable right here, this hotel is an old mill dating from 1650, set away from the crowds in the center, which has been tastefully restored. Each room is personalized down to the smallest detail. We enjoyed strolling around the garden, but our favorite was the table d'hôtes with its local specialties: axoa, Spanish omelette, charcuterie, Basque cake... Delicious!
- The most typical: Hotel Chilhar
If you're looking for a charming hotel in the heart of Espelette, don't hesitate to check out the Chilhar, a hotel with unique charm and a warm atmosphere. Marie and Fabien Munarriz welcome you to this typical house with rooms renovated in the "Basque chic" style. It's a great place to spend a few days, and you can book it right here.
- The one with the best view: Chambres d'Hôtes Irazabala
This is the ideal option for sports enthusiasts and hikers. Go here to book this house that combines nature, authenticity and comfort, with a 360° panorama! The 5 individually decorated rooms all have one thing in common: a "3D postcard" view. Don't forget to enjoy a hearty breakfast of local produce in a magnificent setting before setting off on your hike.
Family activities in Espelette
Espelette is an ideal destination for a family outing, offering a multitude of activities and discoveries for all ages. Start with a stroll through the village center, where traditional Basque houses and chili peppers hanging from the facades create a unique, colorful atmosphere. Children will be fascinated by the strings of chillies drying in the sun, while parents can appreciate the typical architecture and warm atmosphere.
Next, visit Château d'Ezpeleta, a historic monument housing permanent exhibitions on famous local figures, such as Agnès Souret, the first Miss France, and Father Armand David, discoverer of the panda in China. The exhibits are both educational and entertaining, perfect for captivating the interest of young and old alike.
Don't miss the Piment d'Espelette interpretation center, where you can learn all about this emblematic plant, from its origins to its culinary uses. Children can have fun discovering the different variations of pimento, such as powder, spices and mustard.
Finally, take advantage of the green spaces and botanical gardens, such as the arboretum dedicated to Chinese trees, for a walk in the open air. Children can run and play freely, while parents can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
What to do in Espelette when it rains?
Even when it's raining, Espelette has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Start with a visit to Château d'Ezpeleta, a historic monument housing fascinating permanent exhibitions. Discover the story of Agnès Souret, the first Miss France, and Father Armand David, famous for discovering the panda in China.
For a gourmet break, explore the local stores, which offer a wide selection of Basque products. You'll find Espelette pepper preserves, Irouléguy wines, honeys, jams and much more. It's the perfect opportunity to sample local specialties and maybe even take home a few souvenirs.
Don't miss a visit to Espelette church, often cited as one of the most beautiful in the Basque Country. Admire its Renaissance bell tower, massive buttresses, paneled pulpit, gilded Baroque altarpiece and three storeys of galleries. The church is an architectural gem well worth a visit.
What beautiful villages to visit around Espelette?
- It would be a shame to visit the Basque Country without exploring the charming surrounding villages. Not to be missed are Bidart, Guéthary, Biarritz, Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Ainhoa, Sare and Ascain. Each of these villages offers its own unique charm and cultural richness, well worth a visit.
- The caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya, just a few kilometers away, are among the most spectacular in the region. They offer a journey through time, from the first prehistoric inhabitants to the present day, with breathtaking rock formations.
- The village of Ainhoa, one of the most beautiful villages in the Pyrenees and one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", is also a must-see. Its half-timbered houses and flower-lined main street make it a veritable tableau vivant of Basque architecture.
- Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle is also a charming little village typical of the Basque country. Nearby Lac de Saint-Pée is ideal for a relaxing family day out. Swimming, pedal-boating, walking trails and playgrounds make the lake a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Where to park to visit Espelette?
To visit Espelette with peace of mind, it's important to choose the right place to park. The village has several parking options to help you make the most of your visit. You'll find public parking lots close to the town center, offering easy access to the main tourist attractions. These parking lots are generally well signposted and offer ample space for visitors, even at peak times.
In addition to public parking lots, it is also possible to find parking spaces in the streets adjacent to the city center. However, these spaces can be limited, and it's advisable to arrive early to guarantee a space.
For a stress-free visit, you can also opt for private parking lots or the parking lots of local hotels and restaurants, which often offer parking spaces for their guests. Don't hesitate to ask locals or shopkeepers for advice on the best parking options.
Where to eat in Espelette
Espelette offers a variety of restaurants where you can enjoy Basque culinary specialties in a warm, authentic atmosphere. Here are our tried and tested favorites!
- For local specialties: Hotel Restaurant Euzkadi
A hotel-restaurant where the menu represents local gastronomy and local producers in a representative menu where dishes vary with the seasons: home-made foie gras, Banka trout, axoa, Biscayan cod, merluza salsa verde, lamb sweetbreads, duck breast, Ibaïama pork txuleta from Ospital, home-made flan (the Koka) among the "flagship" and unmissable dishes of the house... A true ode to the land.
- Generous southern cuisine: Pottoka
Pottoka, in the heart of the village of Espelette, is one of those open and generous tables that we love. Sabine draws her inspiration from local, seasonal market produce. Depending on the moment and the inspiration, you'll enjoy Banka trout, leche de tigre lime, coconut and Espelette chilli; farmhouse Herriko veal, jus crémé; Paris-Brest-style praline cabbage....Locavore menu, Carte blanche menu to try out the chef's surprises, and tapas on Sunday evenings!
- An address offering excellent value for money and service: Chilhar
Here, the cuisine, somewhere between bistro and Basque authenticity, featuresa land-sea menu, renewed with the seasons and concocted by Chef Fabien, who gives pride of place to local producers and suppliers: Kintoa pig from Les Aldudes, trout from Banka, poultry from Souraide, fish from the St-Jean-de-Luz fish auction... In short, an excellent address that ticks all the boxes in terms of value for money and service.
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