Heading to the French Basque Country: Saint-Jean-de-Luz Awaits You

Chantaco Golf & Wellness: Basque charm, tranquillity and golf near Saint-Jean-de-Luz

In the heart of the French Basque Country, Hôtel Chantaco Golf & Wellness is a peaceful retreat where your holiday begins at a slower pace. Lush gardens, terraces, fountains, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre create a relaxing and elegant atmosphere.

Its individually decorated, air-conditioned rooms feature Wi-Fi, TV, minibar and all the modern comforts you need. For an extra touch of relaxation, the wellness area offers massages, reflexology, shiatsu and a range of treatments.

The location is another highlight: close to the lively centre and beaches of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, next to the 18-hole Chantaco Golf Course overlooking La Rhune, with Biarritz, Bayonne, Espelette, Irún and Hondarribia all within easy reach.

Guests particularly praise the hotel's charm, the welcoming staff, the delicious breakfast, the outdoor pool and the beautiful gardens.

Book your stay and experience the authentic charm of the French Basque Country.

San Juan de Luz, on the French Basque coast, is the perfect holiday for those seeking the sea, history, and fine dining in a peaceful and charming setting. The Route d’Ascain area is somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown, yet ideally situated for exploring the beach, the historic district, and the lush green landscapes of the Basque hinterland. The town is close to Biarritz, Bayonne, and the Spanish border, making it a very convenient base for a well-rounded holiday.

What to see?

One of the must-see attractions is the historic center of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, with its Basque-style houses, lively streets, and the Maison Louis XIV—a house built in 1643 where Louis XIV stayed in 1660 before his wedding to the Infanta Maria Teresa. It’s also worth visiting the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, which is closely tied to that royal history, strolling through the fishing port, and ending your walk at the Grande Plage—a wide, sheltered beach that’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

What to do?

Here, you’ll want to take things at a leisurely pace: stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy the bay, visit Fort Socoa to see the coast from a different angle, or take a holiday inland. From Saint-Jean-de-Luz, it’s also highly recommended to take the La Rhune train, a historic rack-and-pinion railway that departs about 10 km away and climbs to one of the most famous peaks in the Basque Country, offering views of the French coastline, the Spanish coast, and the Pyrenees.

What to eat?

The local cuisine is one of the main reasons to visit. Don’t leave without trying the baby squid, hake à la koskera, ttoro, grilled fish, and—to finish with something sweet—the gâteau basque or the famous macarons from Maison Adam, a historic establishment linked to the wedding of Louis XIV in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. If you enjoy browsing local products, the Les Halles market is a highly recommended stop to check out fish, cheeses, sweets, and specialties from the French Basque Country.

Nearby Excursions

From Route d’Ascain, it’s well worth visiting Ascain, a quiet village at the foot of La Rhune, ideal for combining nature, mountains, and Basque culture. Another perfect outing is Biarritz, about 15 km away, with its elegant atmosphere, surf beaches, and promenade overlooking the Atlantic. For a holiday with a local flavor, Espelette, about 21 km away, is a great option to discover one of the most beautiful inland villages and its famous red pepper.