Built in 1924, the Petit Train de La Rhune is located in Sare, at the Saint-Ignace pass.
A small rack and pinion train, it allows you to climb the slopes of La Rhune at a speed of 9 km/h to the mythical summit of the Basque country in 40 minutes.
From the top of its 905 metres of altitude, La Rhune, the sacred mountain of the Basque Country, offers one of the most beautiful panoramas one can imagine.
This little train takes you over the peaks of the Pyrenean mountain range and follows the Basque coast, skirting the Atlantic Ocean from San Sebastian to the beaches of the Landes.
All the equipment used today is period equipment.
In May 1996, the Train de La Rhune welcomed two new carriages... manufactured in 1924 by the Soulé company in Bagnères-de-Bigorre.
These wooden carriages, like all those in the park, have been completely restored to their original condition.
At the summit, spend 1 hour and 20 minutes exploring the heart of the wilderness to see the Pottok—sturdy little Basque ponies living in complete freedom—as well as Manech sheep and griffon vultures, the iconic birds of prey of the Pyrenees. Reservations are strongly recommended.
There are 3 types of tickets:
- The Classic Trip: round-trip train ride and a stop at the summit
- The Privilege Trip: round-trip train ride + guided immersion on board the train exploring history, fauna, and flora, plus a guided tour at the summit on the secrets of smuggling led by a local guide
- The Downhill Ticket
Every year, a thorough overhaul is carried out.
The small, typically Basque station on the Col de Saint-Ignace is also repainted.
The Petit Train de la Rhune transports more than 350,000 visitors a year.
It is open every day from 11 February to 11 November.
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Le Petit train de la Rhune
3205 Santinazioko Errebidea
D4 - 64310 Sare
Tél. : 05 59 54 20 26
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