Bonjour, fellow wanderers! Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Bay of Biscay, Biarritz beckons with its blend of surf, sand, and savoir-faire. So grab your berets and let’s dive into a delightful rendezvous with this charming destination!
Now when my wife Kari and I went, we drove up from San Sebastian on our way to Bordeaux. The day trip was all Kari’s idea, as honestly I’d never heard of the town before. So after a beautiful 45 minute drive up the Atlantic coast, we arrived at this enchanting destination that I was soon very glad to have visited.
Surf’s Up, Mes Amis! First things first, Biarritz is synonymous with surfing, which I am definitely horrible at. But whether you’re a seasoned pro or a wave-riding novice, catching a few breaks here is near the top of the list! Head to the Grande Plage, where the Atlantic rollers beckon with their siren call. Don’t fret if you’re new to the sport – there are plenty of surf schools ready to turn you into a bona fide surfer dude or dudette! Granted, I enjoyed watching from the sidelines with a glass of French wine in hand.
Promenade du Soleil: Stroll, Sip, and Soak in the Sun After working up an appetite riding the waves, take a leisurely stroll along the Promenade du Soleil. This scenic boardwalk offers panoramic views of the coastline, dotted with chic cafés and stylish boutiques. Grab a café au lait and a croissant from one of the charming bistros and bask in the warm glow of the sun. This was one of Kari’s favorite aspects of the trip. She is an aficionado when it comes to boutique shopping, so she truly was in heaven here. She strolled through many shops, while I enjoyed a snack at a nearby café.
Rock On at Rocher de la Vierge Feeling adventurous? Make your way to Rocher de la Vierge, or Rock of the Virgin Mary. This a dramatic rock formation jutting out into the sea. Legend has it that a statue of the Virgin Mary was placed here to protect fishermen. Nowadays, it’s a favorite spot for thrill-seekers to take a daring leap into the crystal-clear waters below. We definitely didn’t take the plunge, but the views were well worth the walk.
Explore Biarritz’s Bohemian Soul Biarritz isn’t just about sun, surf, and sand – it’s also a haven for artists and free spirits. Lose yourself in the winding streets of the Old Town, where colorful facades and quirky boutiques await around every corner. Keep an eye out for street performers and local artisans showcasing their talents. Who knows? You might just stumble upon a hidden gem!
Indulge Your Inner Gourmand No trip to France would be complete without indulging in the culinary delights it has to offer, and Biarritz is no exception. From fresh seafood straight from the Atlantic to decadent pastries that melt in your mouth, the gastronomic scene here is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Be sure to sample the local specialty, Basque cuisine, which boasts bold flavors and hearty portions that will leave you craving more.
Sunset Soirées and Moonlit Magic As the day draws to a close, there’s no better way to cap off your Biarritz adventure than with a sunset soirée. Head to one of the beachfront bars or rooftop terraces and raise a glass to the beauty of the Basque coast. As the sky turns fiery hues of orange and pink, you’ll feel the magic of Biarritz wash over you like a gentle sea breeze. We also recommend walking down to the lighthouse and taking the trek to the top. The lighthouse appears in all the iconic Biarritz photos, but the view back from above is a must do. It’s even more magical at golden hour.
Biarritz is a playground for the soul, where every moment is infused with joie de vivre. The southern coast of France often gets the most attention, but this cozy spot deserves to be on your list. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and let the playful spirit of Biarritz sweep you off your feet.
We also wanted to include a few of our recommended hotels should you make the trip.
1. Hôtel du Palais(5-star): Kari and I stayed here for our visit, thanks in large part to credit card points. And this place is worth it. The grand hotel is a staple on the Biarritz coastline. Nestled atop a majestic cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Hôtel du Palais exudes timeless elegance and grandeur. Originally built as a summer palace for Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, this iconic hotel boasts opulent rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and world-class amenities. Prepare to be treated like royalty as you bask in the regal ambiance of this historic gem and make sure you take advantage of your time here. Hotel du Palais
2. Hotel Regina Biarritz(5-star): For those seeking a more intimate and boutique experience, look no further than Hotel Regina Biarritz. Situated in the heart of the city, just steps away from the beach and the renowned Casino Municipal, this charming hotel blends classic French style with modern comforts. With its cozy rooms, personalized service, and picturesque views of the ocean, Hotel Regina is sure to enchant even the most discerning traveler. Hotel Regina
3. Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalassa Sea & Spa(5-star): Indulge your senses at Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar, where luxury meets relaxation in perfect harmony. Set amidst lush gardens overlooking the sea, this five-star hotel offers a sanctuary of serenity and rejuvenation. Pamper yourself with a visit to the on-site spa, indulge in gourmet cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, and unwind in style in one of the elegantly appointed rooms or suites. Sofitel Biarritz
4. Hotel Le Saphir(2-star): Located just a short walk from the beach and the city center, Hotel Le Saphir offers cozy accommodations in a convenient location. Guests praise the friendly staff, clean rooms, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel also features a lovely garden terrace where you can relax after a day of exploring Biarritz. Hotel Le Saphir
5. Hotel Villa Koegui Biarritz(4-star): Situated in a charming Art Deco building, Hotel Villa Koegui Biarritz exudes character and style. The hotel’s chic rooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities. Guests love the central location, within walking distance of attractions like the Old Port and the Museum of the Sea. The attentive staff and personalized service add to the overall positive experience. Hotel Villa Koegui
6. Hotel Georges VI(4-star): For a boutique hotel experience with a personal touch, look no further than Hotel Georges VI. This family-run establishment offers comfortable rooms with elegant decor and thoughtful touches. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality and attention to detail, as well as the hotel’s proximity to the beach and city center. The charming courtyard garden is the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine after a day of sightseeing. Hotel Georges VI
Whether you’re seeking opulence, tranquility, or something in between, these hotels in Biarritz are sure to exceed your expectations and make your stay in this enchanting seaside town truly unforgettable.
Au revoir, mes amis – until our next adventure!