A circular trail with a stated duration, a lowland lake and buildings from different periods give Iholdy several travel highlights. Hoxahandia is a moderately difficult 11.2-kilometre circular trail that takes about four hours. At Lac d’Iholdy, there is a wooded path, partially shaded areas and a picnic area; fishing is subject to specific regulations. The church, chapel and Château d’Olce complement the natural attractions with architectural history. If you are looking for accommodation in Iholdy, you can first plan your trip around your preferred focus: hiking, time by the lake or historical interest.
Hiking and Horse Riding
The Hoxahandia circular trail is 11.2 km long, takes about four hours and is classified as moderately difficult. It leads to the 577 m summit of Hoxa Handia. From there, the route offers views of Pic d’Orhy and the Crêtes d’Iparla. The distance, approximate duration, difficulty level and summit destination give the hike a clear framework. Check local trail conditions before setting out.
Another type of tour is offered by the Sentier des contrebandiers, with its horse-riding variant from Iholdy to Lasse. The distinction is clear when choosing between them: Hoxahandia is a circular hiking trail with a stated distance and duration; the horse-riding variant of the Sentier des contrebandiers runs from Iholdy to Lasse. The two routes therefore cater to different ways of getting around.
Lac d’Iholdy: Lake, Fishing and Directions
Lac d’Iholdy is a 1.2 ha lowland lake with a depth of 3 m. There is a wooded path, partially shaded areas and a picnic area by the lake. These are not the only useful features to consider when spending time by the water: the path, shaded areas and picnic facilities are also among the features described for visitors.
Rainbow trout and brown trout are found in the lake. A fishing licence issued by the AAPPMA A.P.R.N. is required for fishing. As fishing regulations may change, check local rules before fishing. Lac d’Iholdy can be reached from the A63 via the Bayonne Sud exit and from the A64 via the Hasparren exit. Parking is available along the unpaved road near the left bank of the lake; check road and parking conditions locally.
Church, Chapel and Pilgrimage Tradition
The parish church of the Beheading of John the Baptist was founded in the Middle Ages. Its structure appears to have been altered several times in the 17th century; the dates 1605 and 1693 are engraved on the lintels of the entrance and portal, respectively. The church preserves grave slabs and disc-shaped stelae in its porch. Thus, its medieval origins, a building history that should be treated with some caution, and two dated lintels stand side by side.
The Chapelle Saint-Blaise was built in 1594, was formerly called Chapelle d’Oxarty and is dedicated to Saint Blaise. It attracts pilgrims every year; dates may be adjusted locally. A pilgrimage for children takes place on Whit Monday. On 3 February, farmers from the canton of Iholdy pray for the health and prosperity of their livestock. The two events differ in both their date and their purpose. If you would like to plan your trip around a pilgrimage, take into account that the dates may be adjusted locally.
Château d’Olce and Iholdy’s Layers of History
Château d’Olce was rebuilt in 1664 by Bishop Jean d’Olce on older structures. The year therefore marks the rebuilding, not the beginning of the site’s entire architectural history. Together with the 1594 chapel and the dates on the church’s door lintels, it provides another point of reference for Iholdy’s architectural history.
This gives you several different focuses to consider when planning your trip: Hoxahandia combines a defined circular hike with a summit destination, Lac d’Iholdy offers features for spending time by the water as well as fishing regulations, and the buildings reflect several historical periods. This distinction can help you tailor your stay to your interests when looking for a hotel in Iholdy.
Discover more destinations: Aydie, Crouseilles, Orriule, Arette, Lohitzun-Oyhercq, Miossens-Lanusse, Aste-Béon, Gère-Bélesten.
Return to the main travel overview: Pyrenees-Atlantiques.
