The city of Bayonne is at a cross-roads, both culturally and geographically. It is located in southwestern France, about 30 minutes from the border with Spain. It lies at the junction of two rivers, and is minutes away from both the Atlantic coastal beaches and the Pyrenées mountains. The city has a strong Basque heritage, which is reflected in its cuisine and architecture. Known as a destination for weekend breaks for both the French and Spanish, the city has a lot on offer, whether its gastronomic pleasures, outdoor activities or history.
The cuisine of Bayonne is a blend of French and Spanish, and the area is famous for some of its local produce, such as Bayonne ham and specialty chocolate. The city has a number of outdoor markets where local produce and specialties can be sampled, and the town provides a free electric "navette" shopping bus that performs a regular circuit of the city centre and shopping areas.
The Basque heritage of Bayonne is on display in the Musée Basque, in the Quai des Corsaires. It is housed in a 16th century hospital that once also functioned as a convent, and contains several thousand works of art that reflect the local culture and society. A major part of the city's cultural traditions was once the encierro, the running of the bulls in the streets of the city. However, in the 19th century, this tradition was modified to create the modern bullfighting practice, which is now seen in Bayonne. The bullring at Bayonne is the largest in the south west of France, with over 10,000 seats.The Nive and Adour rivers bisect the city of Bayonne, and much of the city's commercial and cultural history is based on the two rivers. Strolling along the banks of the Nive, you will see the colourful, narrow Medieval buildings and fortified ramparts, which make up the city's historic centre.
The Nive and Adour rivers bisect the city of Bayonne, and much of the city's commercial and cultural history is based on the two rivers. Strolling along the banks of the Nive, you will see the colourful, narrow Medieval buildings and fortified ramparts, which make up the city's historic centre.
