I've fallen in love with the Pyrenees mountains since starting to walk the GR10 long-distance path from the Atlantic to the Med four years ago.

From the rolling Basque hills in the west up into the Haute Pyrenees, there are some absolutely stunning views along this trail.

You can do the lot in one go (500 miles) if you have the time, or do as I'm doing and do a little bit each year: I'm hoping to dip my toe in the Mediterranean in 2010...

Alternatively, pick one of the many towns near the route as a base and discover some of the circular walks.

You'll get to see some views that you'd never see from a car.

A couple of interesting sites:
www.gr10.co.uk/
user.itl.net/~coldfish/GR10/index2.html
Map: Hendaye: tinyurl.com/2ucjsv

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

The Pyrenees are full of natural beauty, and Landes as well but the area around Bayonne has been built up a bit as tourist centres, although in a much less unpleasant way than in the Cote d'Azur.

In les Landes you will find quiet areas of exceptional beauty and the dunes du Pilat are also worth a visit. If you go swimming ALWAYS stick to the areas with lifesavers on standby, because currents can be very strong indeed.

In les Landes you can stop by farms and village markets with the most wonderful food produce in France. As well as fresh and safe seafood, unlike mediteranean seafood that is always to be avoided.

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

This must be the best seafood restaurant in France - a bold claim I know - but try it. For your first visit, try the salad with foie gras to start with. The 'must' dish to try for your main course is Zarzuela. A rich Basque stew of lobster, crab, shellfish and fish in a creamy soup, served in a copper pan. Worth ordering just for the smell alone. A dish to add to the 10 meals to eat before you die.

The customers are all Old France and the atmosphere is very Basque. The only downside is the table reservation process is a bit hit & miss. For peace of mind, ask your hotel to book for you.

For your second visit, the plateau de fruits de mer is stunning. But try the Zarzuela first!

Socoa harbour - plenty of parking opposite. The 2 other restaurants adjacent to Pantxua aren't in the same league. Don't be tempted.
37 Avenue Commdt Passicot 64500
Tel: 33/5 59n 47 13 73

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends