Words by Elaine Wilson
Located on the picturesque south-western coast of France, Biarritz combines natural beauty with elegant architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It is part of the Basque Country, and this enchanting destination has long been a favourite among travellers seeking a dose of sophisticated relaxation.
The allure of Biarritz begins with its stunning coastline. A series of sandy beaches each offer its own unique charm. Grande Plage, the main beach, is a long stretch of golden sand bordered by the azure waters of the Atlantic. This beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. The next beach along is Côte des Basques which offers dramatic cliffs and a more rugged terrain, making it a popular spot for surfers and adventure enthusiasts. The waves here are considered some of the best in Europe, attracting surfers from around the world.
Plage Du Port Vieux is a picturesque sheltered bay in between the two longer beaches. Lifeguards use it as a safe training ground for their swimming manoeuvres and it is great for surfers, kayakers, families and Instagramers alike, with its glass green shallow sea and striking yellow cliffs. Charming restaurants cafes and bars perch on the rocky surrounds like birds on a precarious nest. There are many stairs to climb up and down to the beaches here so you need to be fairly fit to explore all that the coastline has to offer
Here you also find the iconic Rocher de la Vierge. This rock formation, topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary, is accessible via a footbridge and provides breathtaking views of the ocean and the town. It is a symbol of the town’s maritime heritage and the gaps in the rock formations make for great photo framing.
Biarritz’s charm is not limited to its natural beauty. The town’s architecture reflects a rich history that blends Basque traditions with influences from other parts of France and beyond. The Hôtel du Palais, once the summer residence of Empress Eugénie, stands as a testament to the town’s imperial past. This opulent palace, now a luxury hotel, exudes elegance and offers a glimpse into the grandeur of 19th-century aristocracy.
The town centre, with its narrow streets and charming squares, invites visitors to explore its many boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The local market, Les Halles de Biarritz, is a culinary delight, offering an array of fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties. It is a perfect place to sample the flavours of the Basque Country, from pintxos to delectable pastries. There are a lot of striped things for sale here and nautical accessories such as espadrilles, beach bags and gorgeous outfits abound.
Biarritz has a vibrant cultural scene. The Asiatica Museum, for example, houses an impressive collection of Asian art, providing a unique contrast to the town’s European heritage. Meanwhile, the annual Biarritz Surf Festival celebrates the town’s surfing culture with competitions, film screenings, and lively parties.
The town’s charm is further enhanced by its commitment to wellness and relaxation. Biarritz is renowned for its thalassotherapy centres, which harness the healing properties of seawater and marine extracts. Visitors can indulge in luxurious spa treatments that rejuvenate both body and mind, making Biarritz a perfect destination for a holistic retreat.
Hotel St Julien
Hotel St Julien in Biarritz stands as a beacon of charm and elegance in this picturesque seaside town. Housed in a beautifully restored Basque house, the hotel effortlessly combines historical grandeur with modern comforts, making it a favourite among discerning travellers.
The hotel’s location is one of its key attractions. In the heart of Biarritz, it is just a short stroll from the town’s stunning beaches, vibrant market, and bustling cafes. This central position allows guests easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and the scenic beauty of Biarritz.
Hotel St Julien is a boutique hotel with 26 individually decorated rooms, each with its own blend of traditional charm and contemporary style. It also has a couple of furnished apartments for more casual longer term stays. The rooms are spacious, filled with natural light and chic rather retro furnishings. Modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and luxurious en-suite bathrooms, ensure a comfortable stay for every guest. The coastal theme here includes calm seaside colours and earthy tones which have a chic 1960’s vibe.
The hotel’s garden terrace is a tranquil haven where guests can unwind and enjoy al fresco refreshments, breakfast or afternoon tea whenever the weather is kind.
What truly sets Hotel St Julien apart is its warm and attentive service. There is a real family feel here. The staff are renowned for their friendliness and dedication, always ready to assist with recommendations, reservations, and any special requests. Their local knowledge enhances the guest experience, offering insights into the best dining spots, attractions, and activities in Biarritz and the surrounding Basque Country. The breakfast here features amazing pastries and breads which are all made on the premises. It all has a very sophisticated luxury feel
The Hotel St Julien is part of the Ginto group of hotels which includes other boutique hotels in Paris, Bordeaux and Marseille to date, all of which have their own localised style.
Biarritz’s French charm and seaside attractions make it a truly captivating destination. Whether basking in the sun on its beautiful beaches, exploring its elegant architecture, or immersing oneself in the local culture, visitors to Biarritz are sure to be enchanted by its unique blend of natural beauty and refined sophistication.
Elaine Wilson has been a leading freelance travel writer for the past five years and a travel blogger for more than a decade with her award winning blog Eccentric England.
