Destination 05: Biarritz

Biarritz is the antithesis of its flashier, more pretentious cousin Côte d'Azur, and usually flies under the radar as a top summer vacation destination.  Located on the southwest coast of France’s Basque country, this relaxed beach town exudes casual elegance and captivates with its simplicity and sophistication.  It’s no wonder that the great Coco Chanel, herself, fell so in love with Biarritz that she made fashion history when she opened her first couture house there.  Chanel knew then what so many have come to learn now; that the allure of this underrated seaside gem will infiltrate your dreams and keep pulling your soul back to its endless Summer days, time and time again. 

Getting Around

For the most part, it’s easy to get around the center of town on foot, however, there are also a couple free bus shuttles that frequently run in the Summer months around the town centre/inland and the coastline.  If you prefer driving, opt to rent a car or motorbike because taxis are expensive and will set you back approx. 30€ + a ride.

Surf’s Up

France isn’t usually top of mind as a surf capital, but Biarritz is home to some of the biggest international surfing competitions, attracting surfer legends from all over the world.  La Grande Plage and La Côtes des Basques beaches are great spots to catch the perfect swell, and any given day you can see an array of colorful surfboards gliding on the water’s surface.  If you want to flex your skills and paddle out with the pros, book a lesson with one of the top surfing schools, such as globally recognized Jo Moraiz.  They offer plenty of options from multi-day training packages to one-hour private lessons and will provide everything you need to keep calm and surf on.

Hotels

Hôtel Du Palais:  By far the most famous and luxurious hotel in Biarritz, Hôtel Du Palais is a piece of history.  Originally built in the 1800s as a Summer villa for the wife of Napoleon III, the Empress Eugénie, this impressive palace has been attracting European royalty and international elite since the dawn of time.  The property has seen its fair share of refurbishments over the years, and now that it’s part of the luxe Hyatt portfolio, the newest round of renovations will surely up the amenities ante.  Coupled with the impeccable service, lavish meals and breathtaking views, this hotel will no doubt continue to maintain its top ranking spot.

Le Régina:  We stayed at this lovely hotel, located a short 15-minute walk from the centre of town.  The rooms are comfortable and the grand Art Déco lobby is the quintessential spot to start your day with a croissant and un café .  The spacious pool and serene spa are ideal when you need a good day of R&R.

Restaurants

Le Surfing:  This casual café bar is located right on La Côtes des Basques beach.  Come here for lunch, or in between surf sets to grab a drink with the locals.  The food is simple but delicious, with crowd pleaser dishes such as the fish and chips and a gooey cheeseburger.

Chez Albert:  If you are craving seafood, this is the place.  The restaurant is situated on the old fishing port with views overlooking the harbor.  Secure a table on the patio and order the massive seafood platter with some bubbly.  Because in this case, bigger is definitely better.

La Cabane à Huîtres:  More reasonably priced and just as delicious (if not more) than Chez Albert, is this charming shellfish bar in the town centre.  Located on popular shopping street, rue Gambetta, your wallet will thank you when you decide to take a break from buying every espadrille in site to pop into this shack for fresh oysters, grilled squid, razor clams and a bucket of beers. 

Le Comptoir du Foie Gras:  This cute little joint is situated on a bustling corner in town, surrounded by the town’s most lively restaurants and bars.  It’s the perfect place for pre-dinner drinks and appetizers, and you guessed it, delicious homemade foie gras (you are in France after all).  The prices are incredibly reasonable and the atmosphere is buzzing.  Mingling with hotties is inevitable here.

Bar Jean:  Bar Jean is one of the oldest and most popular tapas restaurants in town, located in the lively town centre (across from Le Comptoir du Foie Gras).  Sit on the patio for prime people watching.  The yummy food is traditional Basque and the vibe is full of fun. 

Les Halles Market:  If you prefer to try a little bit of everything, don’t miss this epic indoor food hall. Understandably dubbed “food lovers paradise”, providing a vast variety of everything from fresh produce, meats and chesses and seafood.  Don’t be surprised if you head here for breakfast and end up staying through closing.

Bars

Etxola Bibi:  If I had to name one place that the locals recommended the most it would be Extola Bibi.  It’s a little shack overlooking the Côte des Basques beach and an excellent place to nosh on tasty tapas, sip on a spritz and watch the sunset.  The staff is also very friendly and easy on the eyes.

Les Contrebandiers:  This chic wine bar in the town centre exudes good energy.  The menu boasts mouth-watering small bites and an impressive selection of wines from all over the world.  Grab some pintxos and a glass of Pinot, post up at the bar and get ready to practice your best French pickup lines. 

Bar de la Plage:  Restaurant by day and bar by night, Bar de la Plage always sets the scene for a good time.  Located right on the beach with a great outdoor patio so you can breathe in the salt-drenched air.  Come here to dance the night away with refreshing cocktails and fun tunes.

Ilunabar Guethary:  If you want to explore outside the centre of Biarritz, the neighboring town of Guethary is definitely worth the short 20-minute drive.  This small and quaint fishing village is one of the best kept secrets in the Basque Country.  Mainly a spot to surf or sunbathe, there are a few great bars and boutique shops. Aside from the famous Hôtel Le Madrid, one of my favorite places to grab a cocktail is at Ilunabar.  The outdoor patio practically sits on top of the ocean, presenting a picture perfect backdrop.  Grab lunch on the patio of Le Madrid and then catch the sunset at Ilunabar.  It’s relaxed vibe and beautiful setting instantly puts you in a good mood. 

The Beach House Anglet:  Located in Anglet, another nearby town, is the very popular and cool Beach House.  Accurately named, this restaurant-pool-bar gets lively on the weekend for the brunch parties.  The atmosphere is beach chic and the food is delish, so put your best bikini on and sip your mimosas poolside.