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Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Pyrénées-Atlantiques, France
The traditional starting point — a fortified Basque town at the foot of the Pyrenees.
A short history
A 12th-century fortress town on the old pilgrim road from Le Puy, Saint-Jean has welcomed walkers heading over the Pyrenees for nearly a thousand years. Vauban's later citadel still crowns the hill above the Nive.
What to see
- Citadelle de Vauban
- Rue de la Citadelle pilgrim street
- Pilgrim office at 39 Rue de la Citadelle
- Église Notre-Dame du Bout du Pont
Where to eat
- Café Ttipia — Basque cider and tapas
- Chez Dédé — confit de canard
- Maison Etxehandia for Basque cake
Where to sleep
- Albergue Beilari (donativo)
- Refuge Esprit du Chemin
- Hotel Itzalpea