Nestled in the extreme southwest of France, Biarritz is known as the pearl of the Basque Country. Both its privileged geographical position and its past history have produced a city of certain charm which has managed to combine the most modern pleasures with the preservation of an authentic setting. Turned towards the seaHowever, Biarritz does not forget the hinterland, which also offers beautiful natural getaways to the visitor. Details in 10 points, 10 things to see or do during your stay.
The beach, lazing around and surfing
It's hard to start our journey in the city of Biarritz without first exploring its coastline. The Côte des Basques beach, the most extensive, has been voted several times the most beautiful beach in France and is a little paradise for lovers of long sunny naps. But Biarritz is above all the promised land of surfers. 18 surf schools, scattered along the coast, await novices and the most experienced from April to November. The Marbella spot is one of the most popular and each year hosts several important events related to the world of snow sports, such as the famous Wheels and Waves.
Surfing in Biarritz
The fishermen's port, tradition and gastronomy
Quieter and less flashy, the fishermen's port is an oasis of privacy in summer, when tourists flock to the beaches of Biarritz. It is also a must-see site for its slightly old-fashioned but calming charm, which combines traditional cottages and quality seafood restaurants. On the seafront promenade, you can also take the time to marvel at the old boats that still occupy the port and resist the luxury yachts that try to challenge them for the priority of the place.
Fishermen's port
Visit the Rocher de la Vierge, the unmissable pilgrimage
An emblematic symbol of Biarritz, the Rocher de la Vierge is the result of a successful blend of wild beauty and human technique. Well camped on its rock, the statue watches over the coast and the visitors, who come here to fill themselves with the salty air and a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean. By crossing the footbridge built by Gustave Eiffel, one gradually takes in the measure of all the diverse beauty of the Basque coast, thanks to a panorama which leads from the lighthouse in the north to the foothills of the Pyrenees in the south. To do absolutely!
Go see the Rocher de la Vierge
The Biarritz lighthouse, a guide and a view
If you saw it during your walk on the Rocher de la Vierge, it's a safe bet that you will take a tour of the coast of the Biarritz lighthouse. Planted at the end of Pointe Saint-Martin, this superb XNUMXth century building, sparkling white, surprises with its size the closer you get. From the top of its forty meters, it always plays its role of maritime guide and watches with attention on the various districts of the city. A masterful point of view for an unmissable visit.
Go see the Biarritz lighthouse
How to come to Biarritz?
With its off-center geographical position, the car is often a long and tiring mode of transport to reach Biarritz, while the city is poorly served by the train network. We therefore recommend flying, especially since the airport is only two kilometers from the city center. Do not hesitate to search for your tickets on Expedia flights, you should be able to find great prices if you go there in advance.
Les Halles, the belly of Biarritz
Basque gastronomy is rich in flavors which in just a few bites reveal all the character of the region. Espelette pepper, veal axoa, Bayonne ham or Basque cake, you will find all these specialties at Les Halles de Biarritz. This large market is divided into two buildings, the first of which houses fishmongers' stalls while the second is reserved for other food vendors. In a colorful and dynamic atmosphere, you can also eat directly on site in the many bars and restaurants that line the visitors' route. We particularly recommend the night markets in July and August!
Taste seafood at Les Halles
Take to the air on the Atalaye plateau
A stone's throw from the Grande Plage and its Casino Barrière, a mineral breakthrough tirelessly spurs the raging waves of the ocean. The Atalaye plateau is a real geological curiosity, the result of the tremendous work of the sea on the cliff. Accessible on foot, this rocky outcrop offers a panoramic view of the surroundings while allowing visitors to fully appreciate the force of the waves. Hearing them crash a few meters under your feet, you will quickly understand why surfers come to seek the great thrill on the beaches of the Basque coast.
Biarritz, the Atalaye plateau
The Biarritz aquarium, for young and old
A true art gallery of local aquatic life, the Musée de la Mer (or the Biarritz aquarium) brings together more than a hundred animal and plant species, representative of the biodiversity of the Bay of Biscay. Perfect for rainy days or family outings, the site offers many activities, such as public feeding sessions for sharks and seals or the possibility of interacting with the environment using a tactile pool. You will also find more historical collections there presenting the various local fishing techniques, typical of the Basque Country.
Hammerhead shark at the Biarritz aquarium
Hike to the Ibardin pass
If the city weighs you down and you feel the need to take a bowl of mountain nature, we recommend a small excursion to the Ibardin pass. Departing from Biarritz, this hike can be done during the day. It will take you to Lake Xoldokogaïna, in the heart of a nature as generous as it is green in just an hour or two and in complete safety. Especially since the trail is quite busy during the high season. You will then kill two birds with one stone on the stony paths by reconnecting with nature while meeting new people.
Col d'Ibardin
Attend a Biarritz Olympique match
If Biarritz is a promised land for surfers, rugby remains the favorite sport of Biarritz. The Biarritz Olympique team, which we call here the BO quite simply, is indeed five times champion of France and crystallizes all the passions during the days of match at home. The Aguilera stadium is then adorned in its finest red and white attire to proudly support its team and carry the colors of an entire region. The communicative fervor of its moments of joyous melee makes the stadium a place to visit absolutely!
Play pétanque at Etxola Bibi
Etxola Bibi is a well-known bar around the Côte des Basques beach. Here, we come for a drink, meet people and admire the superb view of the Atlantic. The friendly atmosphere open to all is ideal for trying out another local passion: pétanque. At the end of the day, when the sun is less blazing, what better way to do than tease the cork with a refreshing drink close at hand?
What to see or do in Biarritz ...
and more !
If Biarritz is one of the most popular destinations in the Basque Country, it is far from being the only valid reason to stroll in the land of pelota. Straddling the sea and the mountains, the Basque Country is home to some of the most beautiful villages in France, such as Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Sare or Ainhoa, a human extension of the region's natural beauty. The country also fiercely watches over the preservation of its traditions through its gastronomy, its festivals and its language and thus offers the visitor a wide range of curiosities to discover!
