Located in the historic Labourt region of the French Basque Country, the southwesternmost city of France. It is located by the Bay of Biscay in the ethnically Basque territories of the Pyrénées Atlantiques. It is separated by the Bidassoa River and Pheasant Island from the Spanish town of Irun, with which it is connected by a bridge. Trains passing through the town change wheels here because of the different gauges in Spain and France.
Andaye (Hendaye) is divided into two main parts:
The ancient medieval Basque town sits on an elevated hilltop with mesmerizing views of the ocean, the estuary and the foothills of the Pyrenees. In the central square there is a unique monument of the XVII century – the “Great Cross”, made of stone, with symbols carved on it. According to one of the versions, these symbols encrypt the prediction of medieval alchemists about the future world catastrophe. Another monument of the Middle Ages is the Church of St. Vincent, built in 1598. A 13th century crucifix has been preserved in it.
The second, coastal part of the city is relatively modern. Between the sea and the mountains stretches the longest beach in France, three kilometers long. Directly into the sea descend the rocks of the Gemini (Deux Jumeaux). In this part there is a marina, from where, having crossed the river on a ferry, you can get to neighboring Spain. During the tour you can see the Chateau de Jourtubier, built in the XIV century, located on a nearby promontory, the quaint Antoine d’Abadie Chateau, built in the XIX century in neo-Gothic style.
Along the beach are stores, hotels, a casino and the Serge Blanco d’Hendaye thalassotherapy center. For active recreation, various water sports are offered: surfing, kayaking, sea skiing, etc.
