Tourism
Visit Sare,
between prehistoric caves and the mountains
Listed among the most beautiful villages in France, Sare sits at the foot of La Rhune, in Labourd. This Basque village, with its white houses, remarkable church and prehistoric caves, has a spirit shaped by tradition and smuggling. To visit Sare and not miss a thing, here are the must-sees, just about twenty minutes from our 3-star campsite in the Basque Country.
Sare at a glance
- Sare is one of the most beautiful villages in France, at the foot of La Rhune.
- The prehistoric caves are among the largest in Aquitaine.
- The rack railway climbs to the summit from the Saint-Ignace pass.
- The Ortillopitz house, built in 1660, reveals what Basque life was like in the past.
- Saint-Martin church has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1982.
Sara
sare
The caves and the La Rhune massif
Two natural sites make Sare famous. The prehistoric caves, carved into limestone, can be visited through vast chambers and one of Aquitaine’s largest entrances, following the traces of an occupation that dates back several millennia. A megalithic park completes the experience.
Nearby, the Saint-Ignace pass is where the La Rhune train departs: an authentic 1924 rack railway that climbs to the summit in 35 minutes, up to 905 metres. From the top, the view sweeps across the ocean and the Pyrenees.
Good to know
The caves can be visited year-round, with a cool, constant temperature—bring a jacket. For the little train, very popular in summer, book ahead and choose an early departure, often with clearer views. If you combine both, plan a full day to enjoy the village without rushing!
The village: Saint-Martin and the Ortillopitz house
The heart of Sare is best explored around its square and its fronton (pelota court). Saint-Martin church, listed as a Historic Monument since 1982, is among the finest in Labourd, with its wooden galleries and finely carved bell.
A little away from the centre, the Ortillopitz house, built in 1660, can be visited like a journey back in time: it tells the story of a Basque family’s life through the centuries. All around, the white half-timbered houses create a typical Basque Country setting.
Traditions and flavours: Basque cake and smuggling
Visiting Sare also means diving into Basque traditions. The Basque cake museum reveals its secrets, with demonstrations and tastings of this iconic dessert. The surrounding trails, such as the Lizarrieta pass, recall the village’s smuggling past and are perfect for beautiful hikes.
From our Merko Lacarra campsite in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Sare is about twenty minutes away via the roads of the Nivelle valley.
Three typical experiences to enjoy in Sare:
- A visit to the museum reveals the recipe and ends with a tasting.
- The smuggling trails offer hikes to the border passes.
- Sainte-Catherine chapel offers a lovely view over the village and the mountains.
Tip from Merko Lacarra campsite
“ Start with the caves in the morning, then have lunch in the square before heading up La Rhune in the afternoon. Take the time for a slice of Basque cake—this is where it really makes sense. ”
Antton, Campsite Manager
Looking for a history-filled Basque village to discover with the family? From Merko Lacarra campsite in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, head to Sare for a day of heritage, mountains and traditions. Book your stay and let Labourd surprise you!
frequently asked questions
FAQ – Visiting Sare
What can you do in Sare in one day?
In one day in Sare, visit the prehistoric caves in the morning, then explore the village and its square around Saint-Martin church. In the afternoon, take the train up La Rhune or discover the Ortillopitz house, before a tasty break.
Are the Sare caves worth visiting?
Yes, without hesitation! They are among the most impressive in the Basque Country, with vast chambers and one of Aquitaine’s largest entrances. Family-friendly, the visit blends geology, prehistory and Basque legends in a preserved setting.
Does the La Rhune train depart from Sare?
Almost. It departs from the Saint-Ignace pass, between Sare and Ascain, just a few minutes from the village. The climb takes 35 minutes to the summit, at 905 metres. In summer, book your ticket in advance to avoid waiting.
How do you get to Sare from Saint-Jean-de-Luz?
From Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Sare is about twenty minutes away by car, via the mountain roads, for around 15 kilometres. From our campsite in the Acotz area, it’s an easy half-day outing.
Sources: Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, Sare / Sare prehistoric caves
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