Perched on a hilltop near the Spanish border, Sare is a charming traditional Pays Basque village; a wonderful destination for foodies or heritage enthusiasts eager to delve into the region’s rich culture. There’s a good selection of accommodation on offer, both within the village and in the surrounding countryside. Options are both charming and affordable, and the best places to stay in Sare are often also family-run.

Stroll the streets of the village to admire classic red and green-shuttered Basque houses, some of which date back to the 15th Century. Step into the striking Church of St. Martin, with its frescoed altar, or take a guided tour of Ortillopitz House before joining a game of pelote in the Place du Fronton. Cooking lessons at the Museum of Basque Cake come highly recommended, as do family-friendly visits to the prehistoric Cuevas de Sare. The medieval bridge is an impressive part of a summer ramble, and Larrun Mountain an ideal challenge for hikers.

Many visitors are drawn to this part of France for its terrific food, which you can sample at open-air markets or at the restaurants which line the square. You can also tuck into delectable Pays Basque cuisine at the best places to stay in Sare!

The Best Places to Stay in Sare

For a Central Stay

• Arraya is an inviting, family-run hotel in the heart of Sare. Think cosy beds topped with floral quilts, pretty blue, white and pink decor, and views across the village. Heritage buffs will be fascinated by the 17th-century house, once a resting place for pilgrims on the way to Santiago de Compostela; foodies can feast on Basque cuisine in the restaurant. Lovely.

For a Rural Escape

• Olhabidea is charming restaurant-with-rooms set within tranquil gardens. The five rooms feature classic floral interiors and garden views, perfect for restful stays. The highlight is Chef Guillaume's ever-changing menu of Pays Basque dishes, fusing market produce with ingredients grown in the garden.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, 40 minutes' drive from Sare. Alternatively, take the TGV south-west from Paris and then drive across from Toulouse or Bordeaux.
• France is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between May and September for warm weather (with temperatures peaking around 23°C). Spring or autumn visitors can expect cooler temperatures; the proximity to the Atlantic means that showers are frequent.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Biarritz.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.