Visit the village of Espelette

Village located on the first foothills of the Pyrenees, Espelette is a Labourdin village built around the Château des Barons d'Ezpeleta. The place was erected into a barony by Louis XI. The castle is listed as a “Historic Monuments” and today it houses the Town Hall, the Tourist Office, the library and two exhibition rooms.

You will enjoy strolling through the streets of the city, particularly in the main “Karrika Nagusia” which will charm you with its alignment of Labourdin houseswith facades white, with half-timbering and red or green shutters.

We also advise you to go to the Xerrenda district which is home to a superb church, classified as a “Historic Monument”, renovated in 17th century. The neighborhood runs along a charming river, Latxa.

Espelette pepper

The village is famous for its famous pepper. The entire village developed around shops and crafts using this exceptional product. More than 140 producers cultivate Piment d’Espelette in the region. Some producers will open their doors to show you around their farm.

Since 2000, the Piment d’Espelette has been recognized by a Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée. This pepper has found a place in the most beautiful plates and in the kitchens of the greatest restaurants. Meet at the Espelette market on Wednesday morning to take home this spice.

Activities for everyone

The village of Espelette is located at the foot of the mountain. You can go for a hike, bike ride or horseback ride. You can practice many sporting activities a few minutes' drive away: climbing, rafting, Basque pelota, golf, fishing, etc. Go to the Tourist Office to find out all the good addresses nearby.

The festivities

The year in Espelette is punctuated by numerous events and festivities where locals and travelers come together and share this passion for the Basque Country:

Pottoks Fair: the last weekend of January
Course des Crêtes: 20 or 25 kilometers in the mountains, the first Saturday in July
Gauargi Festival “Children and dances of the world”: mid-July
Local patronal festivals (4 days): last Sunday in July or first in August
Pepper Festival: last Sunday in October

Tourist advice

Our team knows the region and will be able to tell you the best activities, the most beautiful walks, the must-see visits and the unmissable dates. We know the region perfectly and we will share with you all our tourist advice. We love our beautiful region and we will share all its secrets with you.