Bayonne is situated on the Adour River opposite Biarritz in the Southwest of France. Its location close to the sea makes it an ideal area in which to search for coastal French property near the idyllic beaches along the Pyrenees Atlantiques coastline. The two towns almost merge into one another, separated only by the waterway which gave Bayonne tremendous importance during the Middle Ages. Then, it was an important trading port, especially during the Hundred Year War between France and England. By the time the war ended and the British trading influence withdrew, Bayonne was largely forgotten until the 18th century when Bayonne gave birth to its most important creation - the bayonet.
Today, Bayonne is the main commercial centre in the Pays Basque area of the Pyrenees Atlantiques, with a tradition for making chocolate and the famous Jambon de Bayonne (Bayonne Ham). It is also a popular tourist destination, the international airport at Biarritz making the town highly accessible. Some of the highlights include the Gothic Cellars (Caves) - a series of vaulted underground cellars of gothic design; La Maison Moulis - an impressive renaissance style Bayonne property set into a recess; and Le Chateau Neuf. Bayonne's position on the River Adour also provides for some excellent river walks, as do the numerous parks and gardens around the town.
Bayonne property for sale largely consists of apartments and villas, many in the traditional architectural styles associated with the town. Bayonne property overlooking the river is much sought-after, as is French property further out to the north-west near Tarnos and Tarnos Plage. A 4-bed villa in France between Bayonne and Tarnos will cost in the region of 290,000 euros. More exclusive villas are found in the direction of Biarritz and along the coast to the south.
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