Browsing: Biarritz

Biarritz, a glamorous coastal town in the French Basque Country, is known for its surfing, beautiful beaches, and elegant atmosphere. It’s a fantastic destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation, outdoor activities, and Basque culture. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do in Biarritz:

Beaches & Surfing:

  • Grande Plage: Biarritz’s main beach, a wide stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. It’s also a popular spot for beginner surfers.
  • Plage du Rocher Percé: A smaller, more secluded beach with dramatic rock formations.
  • Plage de la Côte des Basques: A legendary surfing beach, known for its powerful waves. It’s best suited for experienced surfers.
  • Plage de Miramar: Another beautiful beach, popular with families.
  • Learn to Surf: Biarritz is a surfing mecca, with numerous surf schools offering lessons for all levels.

Historic & Architectural Highlights:

  • Rocher de la Vierge: A rock formation with a statue of the Virgin Mary, accessible by a bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel. It offers stunning views of the coastline.
  • Phare de Biarritz (Lighthouse): Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of Biarritz and the surrounding area.
  • Hôtel du Palais: A luxurious hotel, once a palace built for Empress Eugénie. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth admiring from the outside.
  • Église Sainte-Eugénie: A beautiful church built in the neo-Byzantine style.
  • Villa Arnaga: A Basque-style villa built by Edmond Rostand, the author of “Cyrano de Bergerac.” It features beautiful gardens.

Museums & Culture:

  • Musée Asiatica: Explore a collection of Asian art.
  • Cité de l’Océan: An interactive museum dedicated to the ocean and its exploration.
  • Planète Musée du Chocolat: Learn about the history of chocolate and indulge in some tastings.

Food & Drink:

  • Basque Cuisine: Biarritz offers a delicious blend of French and Basque cuisine. Try local specialties like “axoa de veau” (veal stew), “piperade” (a pepper and tomato dish), or “gâteau basque” (a traditional cake).
  • Seafood: Fresh seafood is abundant in Biarritz. Enjoy grilled fish, shellfish, or other seafood delicacies.
  • Pintxos: Similar to tapas, pintxos are small snacks served on bread, a Basque culinary tradition. You’ll find many bars serving pintxos in Biarritz.
  • Local Markets: Explore the markets for fresh produce, local products, and regional specialties.

Shopping:

  • Boutiques: Biarritz offers a mix of shops, from surf shops to designer boutiques.
  • Les Halles de Biarritz: A covered market where you can find local produce, cheeses, meats, and other delicacies.

Other Activities:

  • Golf: Biarritz is a popular golfing destination, with several golf courses in the area.
  • Thalassotherapy: Relax and rejuvenate at one of Biarritz’s thalassotherapy centers.
  • Explore the Basque Country: Biarritz is a great base for exploring other towns in the Basque Country, such as Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Espelette, or Bayonne.

Tips for Planning Your Visit:

  • Getting There: Biarritz has an airport with some international connections, and is accessible by train to some French cities. Many people drive.
  • Getting Around: The town is walkable, but there are also buses and taxis available.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds than summer. Summer is great for beach activities, but can be quite busy and more expensive.
  • Language: French is the official language. Basque is also spoken in the region. While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing some basic French phrases is always appreciated.

Biarritz offers a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere, with beautiful scenery, a rich history, and a thriving surf culture. Whether you’re interested in hitting the waves, exploring historic sites, indulging in Basque cuisine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a coastal town, Biarritz has something to offer.