Car Hire Biarritz

Biarritz truly is a hidden gem of south-west France and driving here is a true pleasure for the scenery alone.

From the airport, it’s only a short 15-minute journey into the heart of the elegant city via the D260. Once you’re in the centre, simply park up and stroll around to soak up the pretty architecture. If you can’t wait to sample the surf, follow the one-way system in the direction of Grande Plage, Biarritz’ famed beach. To visit City of the Ocean, the exhibition centre showcasing the resort’s link with the sea, drive south along the Rue de Madrid.

You’ll also have the freedom to head out of the city and explore the Basque Country. Biarritz is only a short distance from Spain. So close, in fact, that in just 50 minutes you can be in San Sebastián, the Basque gourmet capital. Simply follow the A63, cross the border and travel the AP-8 in the direction of the city. Park in the centre and sample exquisite pintxos, the region’s version of tapas, at the lively bars lining San Sebastián’s pretty streets.

If you’re keen to explore more of France, it’s a pleasant scenic drive along the A63 from Biarritz through Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park to Bordeaux. Stop to stretch your legs and enjoy a picnic among the greenery before heading into the city. Here you can admire your reflection in the Miroir d'Eau, the world's largest reflecting pool, and sample some of the finest French cuisine in all the land.

Driving rules here are similar to those in Ireland – all passengers must wear a seat belt and the use of mobile devices while behind the wheel is banned. The big difference you’ll find is that you’ll drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. As you journey around, keep an eye out for speed limit signs, which vary depending on the type of road you’re using. The maximum on motorways, known as autoroutes, is 130 km/h, which drops to 90 km/h on roads outside built-up areas and 50 km/h in urban areas.

Buildings swathed in belle époque architecture, turquoise waters lapping against golden sand, restaurant goers spilling out onto sun-kissed terraces - this is one of France’s most beautiful resorts to visit. Make the most of your break to this charming seaside spot with car rental in Biarritz.

Chase the Atlantic surf

A playground for masters of the waves, Biarritz’s location on the Atlantic coastline creates the perfect conditions for surfing. It has long been championed as one of the best spots in Europe and is the ideal place to put your skills to the test.

While there are oodles of beaches to choose from along this stretch of coast, Côte des Basques is one of the best. Here, waves break onto a long expanse of golden sand, the swell reaches 9ft and dramatic cliffs form the bay’s backdrop. Don your wetsuit, grab your board and head out into the sapphire waters. A surf school is located on the beachfront for those looking to sharpen their surfing abilities.

Take a bite out of Biarritz

After a day surfing or exploring the city’s museums,sample the mouth-watering Basque dishes this region is famed for, with a delicious blend of French and Spanish flavours to sample.

Michelin-starred Le Clos Basque is one of the best spots to indulge in local delicacies. Take a seat in the cosy, atmospheric restaurant and savour merlu fish with chorizo and beans or scallop soup. For a more laidback approach to dinner, tuck into pintxos, inventive Basque tapas, at Bar Jean which neighbours La Halle, the city’s market.

Nestled next to the sea, Biarritz has its pick of fine dining seafood spots. But Chez Albert takes the mantle of the best in the city. Make your way down to Port des Pêcheurs, where the restaurant is located, and feast on fresh fruits of the sea. There’s everything from lobster and oysters to grilled sardines and paella to try.

Hike through the Pyrenees mountains

Swap the coast for the country and head inland to discover theAtlantic Pyrenees. This part of the famed mountain range is closest to Biarritz and within easy driving distance.

Wind down the windows and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you head deeper into the Pyrenees National Park. Park up in the quaint village of Laruns and set off on foot to explore the stunning Ossau Valley. While the landscapes start green and lush, the further south you trek, the more dramatic and rugged the peaks become.

Sainte-Engrâce, just outside of the national park and near the Spanish border, offers more dramatic hiking trails. The picturesque hamlet tucked in the mountains is the perfect place to park before setting off to discover Gorges de Kakuetta. Wander through the narrow gorge and over footbridges to discover mysterious caves and a beautiful waterfall.

This is just the beginning of what to see and do in Biarritz, a fine French city with just a hint of Spanish flavour in the mix.