Ainhoa’s culinary scene is a celebration of Basque flavors. Traditional dishes such as axoa, a slow-cooked veal stew with peppers, and tarte basque, a pastry filled with cream or black cherry jam, appear on menus alongside local cheeses and cured meats. The village’s restaurants embrace authenticity, sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and markets. Among the most acclaimed dining experiences is Ithurria, a Michelin-starred restaurant and member of Relais & Châteaux.
Begin your journey at the Muralla de Ávila, the famous stone fortress of the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site surrounds the old town with strong walls and towers, giving you a look into the Middle Ages. A walk along the walls offers great views of the city and the landscape, making it a perfect place to create lasting memories.
Ainhoa, or Aïnhoa in French, is a picturesque village in the heart of the French Basque Country, within the historic province of Labourd. Nestled near the Spanish border, it lies along the ancient Way of St. James, offering a serene stop for pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela. Founded in the 13th century as a bastide, a fortified village designed for defense and communal life, Ainhoa retains its original layout: a single main street lined with harmonious façades.
Ainhoa’s main street is lined with whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant red and green shutters, offering a quintessential Basque aesthetic. The flowered balconies add a touch of elegance, creating a scene straight out of a storybook. The village’s 13th-century heritage is evident in the architecture, with the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption standing as a testament to its historical roots. The churchyard, dotted with Basque-style gravestones, offers a peaceful reflection of the village’s past.
Indulge in the flavors of Basque cuisine with a visit to local pâtisseries, where you can savor authentic gâteau basque and tarte basque. For a luxurious dining experience, explore Michelin-starred restaurants that offer innovative takes on traditional dishes, such as hake with Espelette pepper. Pair your meal with Irouléguy wines, produced from vineyards nestled in the nearby hills.
Set in the rolling Basque hills just minutes from Ainhoa, this elegant countryside estate blends contemporary design with traditional Basque spirit. Surrounded by nature and silence, it offers refined gastronomy, a spa and curated rural experiences. A peaceful hideaway where travelers connect deeply with the land and its people.
Located in a 17th-century Basque house on Ainhoa’s main square, this charming family-run boutique hotel offers an authentic immersion into village life. With warm hospitality, traditional cuisine and timeless character, it invites guests to experience the Basque Country as honored guests, not tourists..
A historic inn run by the same family for generations, Ithurria is a culinary and cultural landmark. Its Michelin-starred restaurant, traditional architecture and heartfelt service make it a true expression of Basque heritage. A soulful destination where gastronomy, history and local pride come together.
At the edge of the majestic Irati Forest, Silken Puerta de Irati Restaurante offers a refined taste of mountain Navarra. Its menu highlights game, mushrooms, and seasonal produce, prepared with elegance and respect for local traditions. A serene destination where nature and gastronomy meet in perfect balance.
Irati Barnean is an immersive gastronomic experience that celebrates the forest’s bounty, from wild mushrooms to fresh herbs and local meats. The cuisine is earthy, inventive, and deeply connected to its surroundings, inviting guests to explore Navarra’s natural essence through flavor and craftsmanship.
Housed within a beautifully restored medieval tower, Hotel Torre de Uriz Restaurante offers an intimate dining experience inspired by the seasons. Each tasting menu honors regional products with elegance and creativity. The combination of history, nature, and fine dining creates an atmosphere of quiet luxury.
Written by Stephanie Mutsaerts Photos by Jesus Caso and Stephanie Mutsaerts A Virtual Bike Ride Take a bike ride while immersing yourself in Basque culture and language: Road bike with Tasio – a young, energetic cyclist who grew up…
Written by Stephanie Mutsaerts Photos by Jesus Caso and Stephanie Mutsaerts Carlos Ciriza is one of the most renowned artists of Navarre, Spain. His large-scale sculptures and art creations are exhibited around the world. His…
