The French commune of Bayonne is located in the south-west of the country and is at the confluence of the Adour and Nive rivers. At the time of the 1999 census Bayonne had a population of 178,965 inhabitants, and now, along with such communes as Biarritz and Anglet, it is part of an urban area known as the ‘Agglomération Côte Basque-Adour’. Bayonne has both a rich history and commercial past that enchants visitors.

The city is in a great location, within the Basque Country and seeping into Spain. This gave it a head start into the world of commerce. With the shifting of power towards Paris in the mid-19th century, Bayonne suffered. However, 1854 saw the development of rail links with the capital bring industrialisation to this commune. Bayonne is a city that boasts a real atmosphere. This is epitomised in the evenings when it really comes alive.

A two-day break
The Nive River brings segmentation to Bayonne, with its two quarters, Grand Bayonne and Petit Bayonne. Both areas are worth visiting. As a commercial hub, small streets and quaint shops are key, but there is also much history to be unravelled. Visiting the Basque Museum is also recommended. The museum was opened in 1924, renovated between 1989-2001, and mirrors the identity of this entire area. 

A week-long stay
A cruise on the Adour, which stretches 335km, is well worthwhile. You must also discover what Bayonne is famous for by visiting the Chocolate Workshop. Portuguese Jews expelled from Spain came to Bayonne and ultimately made it the first chocolatier city in the country. In this region, Musee Basque is the finest of its kind and Musee Bonnat is one of the best galleries in south-west France. Both are popular tourist hotspots. 

A family holiday
The length of Bayonne’s bull-fighting tradition is unrivalled in France and the ring beyond the Grand Bayonne Walls is great fun for the family, with the season running from July to September. Parking Glacis is a skatepark dedicated to BMX and free-styling, among other things, while the Aquatic Centre offers lagoon games, a practice pool and a sports hall to keep the family amused.

Transport
Bayonne is connected with Biarritz , Anglet and surrounding regions by an extensive bus service, named STAB. The city is on the high-speed TGV line which offers connections with Spain. Both tourists and hikers alike regularly use the line along the Nive Valley, through Lower Navarre to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Bayonne is less than two hours from major European cities such as Dublin, Madrid and London . The Hotel Campanile BAYONNE is conveniently located just 2km from the centre.

Gastronomy
Take in the feel of the Basque region at La Feuillantine, with a relaxed atmosphere and decorative photos of the area. This is a top Bayonne restaurant serving modern cuisine. Francois Miura offers simple and authentic gastronomy and the family-run Auberge du Cheval Blanc typifies the local ambience, from decorative local colours through to fresh local produce. 

Events
Bull-fighting plays a major role in the Fetes de Bayonne which, starting in early August, pulls crowds from across the Basque region. Dance, music, fireworks and much more are key to the celebrations and just days after, Assumption festival carries on the festival vibe on the 15th August, with yet more bull-fighting. 

Interesting Fact
Among the entertainment at the Fetes de Bayonne – the largest festival in France - the Omelette aux Piments World Championships is also held. This has been a serious competition since 2004 and Espelette Pepper Omelettes are made by various chefs competing for the title of champion.

Useful Links
http://www.bayonne-tourism.co.uk/
http://travel.viamichelin.com/web/Destination/France-French_Atlantic_Coa...