Petit Bayonne

You are now on the right bank of the Nive, the longest river in the Basque Country. This part of town is known as Petit Bayonne, as opposed to the Grand Bayonne on the other side. It’s nicknamed Bourg Neuf, meaning New Village, as it’s much more recent than its neighbor. It was built in the 12th century, at a time when the city was experiencing rapid demographic growth. They thus built new neighborhoods to accommodate the ever-growing population. The Petit Bayonne was eventually brought within the city’s fortifications, which were rebuilt and expanded to encompass all new districts. The Mousserolles ramparts that once protected the area can still be seen today, along with a 15th-century castle; it’s not the oldest in the city, but it’s impressive nonetheless. You’ll also find beautiful, traditional Basque houses, echoing the city’s rich history, as well as a host of shops, bars and restaurants where you can sample the local specialties. This neighborhood is a real charmer! You can spend hours strolling along the Nive River or exploring the colorful streets. And how could we forget the famous Fêtes de Bayonne, the most awaited event of the year? More on that later. In the meantime, let’s get on with discovering the hidden gems of this neighborhood!