Garris, medieval village

Garris (“Garruze” in Basque) is located 3 km from Saint-Palais, to the north of Basse Navarre, in the northern part of the Basque Country. The village is known for its medieval houses along its main street and its ancestral fair which takes place every summer.

This medieval village was once on the Via Podiensis of the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela, before it was diverted to Saint Palais, as the orientation column at the exit of the village reminds us. On the road towards Bidache, this column reminds us of the long tradition that links Garris to the pilgrimage to Compostela. Today the village is one of the stages of the Tours route (one of the main routes of the Compostela Way) arriving from Dax

Garris, a one street village

Garris is a must-visit for those who wish to admire Bas-Navarraise houses in perfect condition. Take the time to visit the houses along the main street on foot. In front of some, you will find a small description of the house, its history and its previous occupants.

This small medieval village was once part of the Via Podiensis on the Compostela route before it was deviated to Saint-Palais.

The village is famous in the Basque Country for its celebrated summer fair. This fair took place for the first time in the 12th century and still exists today in this small Basque village. Between the 31st July and 1st August every year, Garris welcomes thousands of farm animals.  

The first day is always reserved for equine animals. Many people arrive from Aquitaine and some from even further away (Belgium, Spain...) to buy or sell horses, Pottok ponies, and even mules. The second day of the fair, on 1st August, is reserved for bovine animals: calves, cows…

All surrounded by a variety of entertainment for adults and children!