When we think of Bayonne, we immediately associate tapas aperitifs on the terrace in summer, Bayonne parties and ham of course! Yes, but then visiting Bayonne in the off-season, especially in autumn or winter, is it really worth it?
This is what I will try to show you through my experience and photos. Those who followed my adventures #enmodebasque on my social networks twitter or instigram, already know the answer?
We are at the end of November, and the sun, which warms our cheeks, already knows how to make us appreciate the visit. Just as soon as we cross the Adour to reach the Petit Bayonne and we are in the mood. Pretty reflections of the Chaho wharf seen from the engineering bridge. The narrow facades of the Adour quays seen from the Petit Bayonne district.
We started with a great game of treasure hunt proposed by Germaine, host City of Art and History. Without knowing anything about the city. Ww barely arrived, we were given a map in the hands and a very complete questionnaire with clues, games, selfies and meeting points to find enthusiastic memory couriers in every corner of the city. Good to know: The tourist office of Bayonne realizes games of tracks or guided tours in Bayonne out of season. Find out more.
And it's time for adventure. I discover a young, dynamic, festive city rich in cultural and historical heritage.
We were in the neighborhood of the small Bayonne, where the Basque museum is located (which unfortunately I did not have time to visit). We'll have to come back with the kids!). This is also where the Bayonne celebrations take place. In winter, the atmosphere is more familiar but I spotted a few terraces animated, ideal for the evenings.
Marengo Street, discover a nice little corner of street art at Pierrotenia Passage. Lift up your eyes to find the passageway because it's really well hidden!
The tiny facades are very colourful and varied. This is what makes Bayonne so charming.
Bayonne has changed a lot since the curettage operations, i. e. the opening of passages and inner courtyards to create new alleys, air the city and reveal unusual facades and staircases.
An exciting trip to the heart of the Bayonne Preserved Area.
After crossing the Adour river via the Pannecau bridge, head towards Rue Port de Bertaco to observe the famous Moulis house more closely.
Just across the street is the market hall and its a lovely café on the terrace Chez Pantxo, the bistrot des Halles.No time for coffee. The treasure hunt is serious!
Here we are, now in the Grand Bayonne, the small cobblestone and pedestrian lanes immediately put us in an authentic atmosphere. The route takes us through shops to discover hidden architectural treasures. It's a great idea to discover the city this way.
Passing by the street fish market, a small jewel hides at the end of the impasse of the old Halle. Since June 2015, Place Bernard de Lacarre has been home to the terrace of the Ramuncho cafés.
It is impossible to miss St. Mary's Cathedral and its cloister. It is thanks to her that we were able to get rid of the map to find our way around the city. This Gothic cathedral is listed as a World Heritage Site by INESCO as part of the Paths to Santiago de Compostela.
Too bad the cloister has limited opening hours, I really wish I could have been around. I spotted this little shop there,"Moi de moi". There are very cute decorative objects and original Basque souvenirs with for example the Little Bayonne brand.
At the end of the day, the city changes faces and lights up in the shopping lanes. We hurried to finish our last purchases, like here on Silver Street. At nightfall, the atmosphere becomes festive. I confirm even in winter, we continue to party in Bayonne in the off-season.
For gourmet addresses, chocolates, restaurants, tapas bars or hotels, follow my good addresses on the Basque coast.
Thanks to Article Eleven, OT Bayonne and CDT Pays Basque for this collaboration and these beautiful moments of discovery. Thanks to Sophie, Christiane, Laurence, Anne and Germaine for the organization. Thanks to Claire, Sabrina, Virginia and Catherine for this very informative treasure hunt. I keep the delicious memory of a story of unforgettable crabs? 9