Le Train de La Rhune — Attraction in Bayonne

A slow paced 'cog and pinion little train' to the summit of the Rhune mountain.

Beware the parking is very busy so best to park your car in one of the 2 unofficial carpark that you arrive at before the main carpark if you are on a later train. The trains start at 8.30am so the main carpark fills up very quickly.

There is a free toilet at the bottom station, a cafe and restaurant at the summit (toilets are €0.50) which does a fantastic hot chocolate, plus a souvenir shop.

Entertainment was local traditional music on the day we went. Unfortunately the mountain was in the cloud the day we visited so we couldn't see the exceptional panorama but it was still worth the trip.

The summit can be chilly, as can the carriages as they have open windows, so be sure to take waterproof coats and a jumper. If it rains you will get wet. Although we were in the cloud, we didn't really get wet, just damp, so it's only a problem if it actually rains.

After your journey there is a takeaway food point plus a restaurant a little further up the road and a large souvenir...

A truly unforgettable experience and a must-do when visiting the Basque Country! Le Train de La Rhune is more than just a scenic train ride — it’s a journey through time and nature.

Climbing the slopes of La Rhune aboard the charming vintage cogwheel train from 1924, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Pyrenees, and the lush Basque countryside. The pace is slow and peaceful, allowing you to fully take in the beauty of the landscape.

At the summit, the panoramic 360-degree view is absolutely stunning. On the day of our visit, the skies were clear and we could see all the way to the Bay of Biscay — truly a spectacular sight.

The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall experience is suitable for all ages — families, couples, and nature lovers alike. I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during the summer months, and bringing a light jacket, as it can be quite cool at the top even in warm weather.

A perfect combination of nature, history, and culture — definitely one of the highlights...

Very picturesque experience enjoying one of the few zipper trains still in use today.

Seats are assigned in advance if bought online, which is the only reasonable option as it is usually sold out a few days before, so there is little need to be there with excessive buffer time. Being in line 15 minutes before departure is enough. However, it is very advisable to reserve some more time to find a parking spot, as everything is full. Be careful with the return schedule: if you lose your train back there is little chance you will be able to buy tickets there, and the hike back, although for sure beautiful, is quite long and steep.

The ride is 35 minutes. At the top we find an stunning view of the surrounding populations, in particular of Saint Jean de Luz. We also have a priviledged view of the Pyrenees. A few wild horses and sheep are a decorative detail that makes this a...