The coastal city of Biarritz is a luxurious destination perched on the southern west coast of France, where Michelin-starred restaurants, scenic views over the Bay of Biscay and premier surfing spots are all enjoyed in abundance. Discover what else awaits in this art-deco inspired French town with our quick travel guide.
Exploring Port Vieux
The old port – known as Port Vieux – is filled to the brim with must-see local sights. Start at Villa Belza, a dramatic clifftop mansion with medieval features. Just moments along the coast is Rocher de la Vierge, a rocky isle topped with a gleaming white statue of the Virgin Mary, connected to the shore by a foot bridge.
In the heart of Port Vieux, the narrow streets are lined with painted houses and garden balconies, fresh seafood restaurants and pavement cafes. Weave your way to Eglise Sainte-Eugenie to admire the Gothic architecture, and then relax in the sun-kissed ambience of the surrounding square.
If you’re on a family trip, treat the kids to an afternoon at Biarritz Aquarium, also found in this part of town. Head to the Cetacean Gallery to come face-to-face with life-sized whale models and skeletons, and then take a seat on the Seal Terrace to watch feeding time against the rippling backdrop of the bay.
Hit the beach
Biarritz is heralded as one of the best surfing destinations in Europe, so expect to see enthusiasts paddling out on the deep blue waves. Plage de la Cote des Basques is the beach of favour with the local surfing community, and suitable for a variety of experience levels. There are plenty of surf schools close by if you want to brush up on your technique first.
Catch some more of Europe’s finest waves down the coast in Guéthary, around half an hour away following the D810. For beginners, Cenitz is the go-to spot while more experienced boarders can take on the big swells at Parlementia.
For a spot of relaxation in the sun, head to the sandy shores of La Grande Plage in Biarritz, where the boardwalk is lined with quaint cafes and restaurants. Further up the coast, the Phare de Biarritz lighthouse keeps a watchful eye over the shore. Climb the 248 steps to the viewing balcony to capture a scenic snap or two.
This is also the setting of the luxurious Hotel du Palais. Built on the orders of French leader Napoleon Bonaparte for his wife, this waterfront palace is the epitome of opulence and splendour, complete with a number of renowned restaurants inside.
Gastronomic indulgence
Offering a mouth-watering blend of French and Spanish flavours, the Basque Country has its own distinctive cuisine. Indulge in locally cured Bayonne ham, fresh seafood cooked to perfection and iced platters of fresh oysters – claimed to be some of the best in the world.
Whether you’re trying the local delicacies in the rustic setting of a family-run restaurant in Port Vieux, or exploring glamorous Michelin-starred restaurants such as L'Impertinent, delectable dining is an essential part of the Biarritz experience.
Sandy shores, atmospheric streets and delectable feasts – when you organise car hire at Biarritz Airport, the charm of the Basque County is yours to explore.
