This is a *very* special place . It is hard to imagine a better perch from which to explore both the French and Spanish sides of Basque Country. The location in the charming hilltop village of Urrugne puts you only minutes away from the beach resorts of St-Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye but is removed from the droves of tourists that swarm the Côte Basque during summer. The village itself is adorable, peaceful and has everything you need for a long stay — bakery, pharmacy, butcher, cafe, abundant street parking, even a single-screen art house cinema where we enjoyed an Almodovar film one night. There are often choral performances and other celebrations on the square outside, or on the "fronton" (the Basque pelota court) which is just a few minutes away. The apartment, filled with a mix of antiques and contemporary furniture, has been thoughtfully renovated. Those who love to cook will enjoy the beautifully appointed kitchen, with antique stemware and colorful ceramic plates. There is no AC but the thick old walls keep the place cool even during heat waves. A shady private garden, accessible via the garage, is a nice place to have aperitifs before dinner. The owner, Odile, was one of the most thoughtful and generous hosts I've encountered on airbnb — her family has deep roots in the village and she was helpful in making restaurant recommendations and even once called to make me a doctor's appointment when I feeling under the weather. The only thing guests should keep in mind is that the apartment is right next to a beautiful 17th century church whose bells ring at all hours. We got used to it after a few nights but light sleepers should bring ear plugs (or close the wood shutters, which block out much of the noise).