Baigorri, the one chosen by Charles Chaplin

Baigorri. ©Office de Tourisme Pays Basque
Baigorri. ©Office de Tourisme Pays Basque

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At the foot of the crest of Mount Iparla, Baigorri (Saint Etienne de Baïgorry in French) is one of those villages that we love so much. Situated at the entrance to the valley of the same name, a simple stroll through its ancient streets will reveal its history: its castle dating from the 11th century, its Roman bridge, its 17th and 18th century houses, and even its frontón (pelota court).

On the edge of the Aldudeko Errobi (a tributary of the Errobi River), this lower Navarrese town offers a multitude of opportunities for sports lovers: hiking, GR10, mountain biking... Since 2016, Baigorri has also been the first Trail Running Station in the northern Basque Country.

Entering Baigorri is like entering the heart of Lower Navarre. The village is located at the foot of the Izpegi pass, which takes you to the Spanish Baztan valley in just 20 minutes. In fact, we recommend a short stop at the top of the pass to enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery. The heritage town of Donibane Garazi is just over 10 kilometres away, passing through the village of Irulegi.

Church and fronton of Baigorri. ©Office de Tourisme Pays Basque
Church and fronton of Baigorri. ©Office de Tourisme Pays Basque
Baigorri's fronton. ©Office de Tourisme Pays Basque
Baigorri's fronton. ©Office de Tourisme Pays Basque

The gates of Baigorri, a region rich in gastronomic culture, are wide open: the Aldude valley, with the municipality of Banka and its trout, Aldude and its Kintoa PDO, and Urepel, the natural gateway to the Kintoa Country.

The town of Baigorri is also surrounded by some of the most famous peaks in the region: the Iparla ridge and the peak of Oilandoi with its chapel.

Curiosities

  • The Etxauzia Castle hosted Charles Chaplin on three occasions, in the summers of 1925, 1926 and 1931.
  • Bertrand de Etxauz: grandson of Mr. Gratien de Etxauz, he was chaplain to Kings Henry IV and Louis XIII. He was also Bishop of Baiona and Archbishop of Tours.
  • Jean Harispe: Born in the castle of Etxauzia, he commanded the companies of Basque soldiers against Spain during the Napoleonic wars. He was made Marshal of France. The bust of Marshal Harispe can be seen in the public garden of Baigorri.
Roman bridge of Baigorri. ©Office de Tourisme Pays Basque
Roman bridge of Baigorri. ©Office de Tourisme Pays Basque

Bureau d'Accueil Touristique de St-Jean-Pied-de-Port

14 Place Charles de Gaulie

64220, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

+33 (0)5 59 37 03 57

www.en-pays-basque.fr

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