Loop 1: The Jaizkibel – Basque Country passes

This small loop of around thirty kilometers takes place entirely in the Spanish Basque Country. Starting from Fontarrabie (or Hondarribia in Basque) it runs along the foothills of the Jaizkibel massif before flirting with its summit.

The start is located on the outskirts of the maritime town of Hondarribia. Separated from Hendaye by the bay of Txingui, it is at the gates of the Cantabrian Sea at the mouth of the Bidassoa. Its architecture and atypical houses are worth a stroll.

The route runs along the Jaizkibel massif, meandering at its feet on small roads with little traffic. A small bump allows you to warm up a bit before returning to Pasaia Donibane. You reach this small bucolic village by its north bank. If you have time for a visit, a boat takes you to the southern part of the village and its authentic main street.

It is on the heights of Pasaia Donibane that your ascent to Jaizkibel begins. The classic climb is just over seven kilometers long and includes an average of 6%. The beginning of the ascent is the steepest part while the last meters are the easiest. In the middle, a flat area of a few meters allows you to catch your breath.

Arrived at the top of the pass, you can make a small detour to reach the summit, easily recognizable with its antennas. You are on the westernmost mountain range of the Pyrenees. The view extends from the chain and its first mountains before losing itself off to the Atlantic Ocean.

The downhill portion is very nice. It delivers its share of panoramas over France and the town of Hondarribia which you are about to join to complete this pretty loop between land and sea.