Walks around Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
From the GR65 to the pastoral ridges of Lower Navarre, a playground ranging from a gentle family stroll to a demanding full day out.
The mountains here are not in the 3,000-metre league, but they are no pushover either. The Basque ridges climb fast, stay exposed for long stretches and can change mood within an hour.
The GR65 to Roncesvalles, a must
Even if you are not heading for Santiago, the climb up the Napoleon Route is one of the finest walks in the Basque Country. You can do part of it as a day walk: going up to Orisson and back down gives you a taste of the views without committing to the full 25 km.
For the whole stage to Roncesvalles, see our detailed guide to the stage: distances, ascent, variants and the winter closure period.
The GR10, across the Pyrenees
The GR10 links Hendaye to Banyuls-sur-Mer, crossing the entire range. Its Basque section passes mountain pasture passes, shepherds' huts and valley-floor villages. Unlike the GR65, it is in no hurry: it follows the terrain, so it climbs and descends a great deal.
It is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to walk for several days without the crowds of the Camino de Santiago.
Three easier walks
- The citadel of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Ten to fifteen minutes' climb from the old town, for a sweeping view over the valley. Perfect at the end of the day.
- Valley-floor circuits. Around Saint-Jean-le-Vieux and Gamarthe, country lanes link farms and hamlets: little climbing, lots of countryside.
- Around the Irouleguy vineyards. The terraced hillsides offer short, very photogenic routes to the west of the town.
The ridges of Lower Navarre
This is the area's signature: long grassy ridges roamed by Manech sheep and pottoks, the small local horses that live semi-wild. You often walk without a tree or fence in sight, with wide views over the Pyrenees.
These routes call for caution: few landmarks, no shelter, and fog that can blot everything out within minutes.
Weather and safety: what you need to know
The five rules of the area
- Check the mountain forecast the day before and on the morning itself.
- Take a windproof jacket, even in July: the wind can be strong on the ridges.
- Bring water. Places to refill are rare on the ridges.
- Have an offline map. Mobile coverage is patchy.
- Respect the flocks and close gates behind you: these are working pastures, not a park.
Setting off from accommodation at the foot of the trails makes a big difference: you leave earlier, come back without stress, and can shift your plans by a day if the weather turns.
Frequently asked questions
Which walks can you do from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port?
The GR65 to Roncesvalles for a demanding mountain stage, the GR10 that crosses the Pyrenees from west to east, the climb to the citadel for a short walk, and the many pastoral circular walks along the ridges of Lower Navarre.
Do you need to be experienced to walk here?
It depends on the route. The valley walks are suitable for everyone. The ridge routes, especially towards Roncesvalles, require a good level of fitness and real attention to the weather: fog comes down quickly.
Can you walk all year round?
Lower altitudes are walkable all year round. Higher up, snow, fog and wind make winter and early spring much trickier. The high route to Roncesvalles is in fact closed from 1 November to 31 March on its Spanish section.
Where can I find maps and GPS tracks?
IGN 1:25,000 maps cover the area, and the Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port tourist office has local walking guides. On the ridges, an offline map is more reliable than an app that needs a connection.
Where to stay in the area?
Maison Iturria is in Gamarthe, 10 km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, on the Camino de Santiago (GR65). Two unusual places to stay, a tipi tent for 5 and a cabin for 3, with breakfast included from €90 per night, and a table d'hôtes (home-cooked dinner) in the evening.
Fancy a stay at Iturria?
We prefer to receive booking requests by email. If needed, you can also reach us by phone between 10 am and 8 pm.