La Rhune

Sites in South West France - Pays Basque

Le sommet mythique du Pays Basque

The Mountain of "La Rhune" is not very high in comparison with the "Pic du Midi de Bigorre" (2865M) in the Hautes Pyrenees, or "Mont Blanc" (4807m) in the Alps, La Rhune is only 905m above sea level. But, there are 2 things which you can't do on the other two! Ride up by Train on the "Petit Train de la Rhune" from Ascain up to the observatory on the top (with 360° viewing terraces) and the other

is to see as far up the French coast (as far as the eye can see), across the Pyrenees Mountain range (French & Spanish) and also along the Spanish Northern coast. It's higher than the "Eiffel Tower" in Paris, with nothing to obstruct the view: what more can you want from 3000ft.

One or two days a year, there is snow on the Rhune

The Petit Train

Built at the turn of the century in 1924 and perfectly maintained, the train is an authentic collector's piece. It runs every day in the summer and takes passengers from Ascain up to the summit restaurant in a slow climb (8 kph) during 35 minutes.

Opening hours : The train runs every day from the 17th of March until the 12th of November. The frequency of departures varies depending on the weather and affluence. In July and August, the station opens at 08.30, the first train leaves at 09.00 and every 30 minutes thereafter. The last departure is around 17.00/17.30 depending on the demand.

Contact : 0892 39 14 25 for opening hours, group reservations etc.

There is also a hiking path from the train station up to the summit, which takes about 2h30 up and 2h down.

For more information see the Petit Train de la Rhune website