What to bring back from a trip to Bayonne?

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Basque mountains, Bayonne is much more than a simple tourist destination: it is a city of character, proud of its traditions, its art of living and its exceptional products.

If you are lucky enough to visit this pearl of the South-West, you will inevitably leave with the desire to extend your stay a bit...

And what better way to do that than to bring a bit of Bayonne home? Here is a selection of the essential souvenirs to put in your suitcase.

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Bayonne ham: a local star

It is impossible to mention Bayonne without talking about its famous ham.

This iconic product, aged for at least 7 months, is appreciated for its melting texture and delicate taste.

You will find it in Bayonne halls, with charcutiers or directly with producers in the region.

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➡️ For more information: Bayonne Ham Consortium

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In thin slices under vacuum or in a small whole quarter, it is easy to transport. A real pleasure to enjoy at home to relive the Basque experience with every bite.

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Chocolate: a gourmet heritage

Bayonne is the historic chocolate capital of France.

Introduced by Portuguese Jews in the 17th century, chocolate is still worked there in an artisanal way by emblematic houses.

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➡️ To discover:

• Daranatz chocolate factory
  
• Chocolaterie Cazenave
  

You will find tablets, ganaches, orangettes, or even the famous old-fashioned chocolate to drink, thick and fragrant. A souvenir as refined as it is delicious.

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Basque knives: crafts at your fingertips

Another souvenir idea: a traditional Basque knife, often decorated with the lauburu (Basque cross). Hand forged by local artisans, these knives are beautiful, useful, and durable at the same time.

Whether it's a miniature makila, a pocket knife, or a collector's item, it's a perfect gift for lovers of beautiful objects.

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Surfing culture: a lifestyle to bring back

A few kilometers from Bayonne, the beaches of Anglet and Biarritz thrill surfing culture.

In local shops, you will find clothing inspired by this lifestyle: sweatshirts, T-shirts, caps, or even accessories marked with the Basque seal.

A good way to keep a little bit of ocean air with you.

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The Basque beret: the timeless icon

An essential clothing symbol, the Basque beret is much more than just a headgear. Proudly worn by shepherds as well as artists, it is now revisited in various styles.

In Bayonne, you will find very beautiful specialized shops, with plain or colored models, for all tastes.

An elegant, authentic and 100% local accessory.

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Flavors and colors: peppers, textiles and espadrilles

• The Espelette pepper AOP : grown not far from Bayonne, it is an excellent substitute for pepper and gives a Basque touch to all your dishes.
  
• Les Ossau-Iraty AOP sheep cheeses : to be served with black cherry jam from the Basque Country.
  
• Basque linens (tablecloths, tea towels, aprons) with colored stripes: a textile that is both elegant and practical, an emblem of local weaver expertise.
  
• Les handmade espadrilles : handmade in the region, they perfectly embody the Basque spirit: simple, robust and joyful.

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In summary

Between culinary traditions, local crafts, fashion and ocean ambiance, Bayonne is full of treasures to take home.

Whether you are a gourmet, passionate about culture or a lover of unique objects, you will inevitably find a souvenir to match your stay.

And above all, you will bring back a bit of the Basque soul in your luggage.

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