Bayonne, France’s chocolate capital
Bayonne, the historic birthplace of chocolate in France
Chocolate is an integral part of Bayonne’s identity. Despite the fact that many craftsmen have given way to industrialization, the city of Bayonne continues to set aside three days each year to celebrate chocolate and the art of chocolate-making. Historically, the first cocoa beans from Europe arrived in Spain and Portugal in the 16th century, after the explorer Cortes imported them from Mexico. But Jewish communities fleeing persecution during the Inquisition took up residence in Bayonne and on the right bank of the Adour.
They brought back with them the recipe for making chocolate, making Bayonne the historic cradle of chocolate in France. In the 17th century, the first French cocoa factories were established in the Basque Country. Together with trade, this made a major contribution to local economic growth. So, whenever we talk about the origins of chocolate in France or Europe, we inevitably refer to Bayonne and the Basque Country.
Chocolate boutiques and museums, our best addresses
If you’re passing through Bayonne, why not explore the history of chocolate. Take the opportunity to visit the many chocolate makers still working in the town. Marvel at the unique bouquets of chocolates from Serge Andrieu’s workshop, or visit Chocolaterie Daranatz, in business since 1890, or the recently opened Chocolat Pascal. If you’d like to meet one of the direct descendants of Bayonne’s 17th-century chocolatiers, don’t miss the Maison Pariès. Monsieur Txocola is sure to surprise you with his grand cru cocoa.
You can continue the adventure with a tasting of several varieties of chocolate at the Atelier du Chocolat on the allée de Gibéléou, at the entrance to Bayonne on the right bank of the Adour. You’ll taste the famous Espelette pepper chocolate. The site takes you on a journey back to the beginnings of Bayonne chocolate, its manufacture and the cultivation of cocoa. The site also features a museography and a workshop for children. And the good news is that it’s open all year round, Monday to Saturday.
Chocolat Gourmand” guided tour, a must-see in Bayonne
For your stay in the Basque Country, treat your taste buds and discover the flavors and know-how of Bayonne. Guided and commented tours on the theme of “Chocolat Gourmand” are offered by the tourist office on January 4, February 11, 18, 25 and March 3, 2020. To take part, you’ll need to register at the Bayonne tourist office, as places are limited to 20 people per tour. Each tour lasts two hours, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and promises to be a highly enriching experience. The program includes a meeting with the city’s chocolatiers and a journey back in time to the beginnings of Bayonne chocolate. The much-awaited tasting will crown the tour.
To make the most of your Easter vacations in the Basque Country, book your stay at Camping Pays Basque. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the city of Bayonne, the capital of chocolate for over 4 centuries.
