Belharra

Belharra is a surf spot off the Corniche Basque coast where exceptional waves form when heavy swells encounter an underwater plateau. These towering waves develop roughly 3 kilometers from shore where the seafloor rises sharply at approximately 15 meters depth.

The first documented surfing session took place in 2002 when local surfer Peyo Lizarazu led a group of pioneers to ride these massive waves. Since then, the spot has grown into one of Europe's most important destinations for extreme wave riding.

Surfers from around the world gather at this spot during stormy seasons to test their skills against nature's power. The wave has become a symbol of extreme surfing culture in Europe, drawing adventurers who seek to push their physical limits.

Getting close to the wave requires a jet ski, but spectators can watch the action from the clifftops of the Corniche Basque in Urrugne. The best viewing conditions occur during stronger autumn and winter storms when the seas are at their most dramatic.

The underwater plateau creates waves that rank among Europe's largest, rivaling those at Nazaré in Portugal and Mullaghmore in Ireland. This rare geological formation has made the spot globally renowned among adventurous big-wave riders.

GPS coordinates: 43.40361,-1.71778

Latest update: December 10, 2025 10:52