Biarritz and the Basque Coast
Biarritz is an opulent coastal resort that has attracted high-society visitors since the Belle Epoque. Biarritz has more beaches than the French Riviera, thanks to its excellent sandy shores, crashing waves, and invigorating ocean breezes.
The Grande Plage, one of its largest, is a lovely, broad beach in the shadow of the famed Hôtel du Palais, a luxury lodge that was originally Napoleon III and his wife Empress Eugénie's seaside house.
During peak season, the Grande Plage's vast shoreline is filled with sunbathers and striped cabanas. The Quai de la Plage promenade, which runs alongside the Grande Plage, encourages visitors to stroll leisurely while observing the breathtaking Bay of Biscay coastline. There are also seaside eateries and cafés on the promenade.
The Plage du Miramar, located right next to the Grand Place, is a beautiful natural setting that overlooks the Biarritz Lighthouse; this beach also boasts colorful striped beach tents that add an old-fashioned feel to the seaside landscape.
Because of its tremendous waves, Biarritz is Europe's surfing capital. The Côte des Basques, where surf contests are conducted, and the Plage de Marbella, a rough and mountainous beach with crashing waves, are both popular surfing locations.
Le Port Vieux, with generally calm waters, and Plage de la Milady, with a playground, are the ideal beaches for families with children.
Because Biarritz is located on the Atlantic Ocean, water safety is more critical than on the French Riviera, where the Mediterranean Sea is gentler. Bathing, swimming, and surfing are restricted during certain times of the year due to strong currents and dangerous waves. Swimming and bathing at Biarritz beaches is only recommended when lifeguards are on duty.
Biarritz is an excellent location for a coastal vacation in the south of France. Other appealing beach spots along the Atlantic Coast can be found in the area surrounding Biarritz.
Visitors to Arcachon can marvel at the highest sand dune in Europe, the Dune du Pilat. This famous summertime beach resort features a lovely seaside village, a fishing community, and a magnificent stretch of fine-sand beach.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz, about 20 kilometers south of Biarritz, is a lovely French village with historic houses overlooking a long, sandy beach.
Location: Nouvelle-Aquitaine
