Vibrant Seaside Community, Often Referred to as the 'Prime Surfing Destination of France', Showcases Impressive Coastal Shores
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Nestled on the Basque Coast of southwestern France, Biarritz has long been a haven for surf enthusiasts and travellers seeking adventure, history, and gastronomic delights. Here's a guide to some of the town's highlights.
Surfing in Biarritz
For those eager to catch some waves, Biarritz boasts around 20 surf schools catering to various skill levels. Three popular options are the Shining Surf School, Curren Surf School, and group lessons at Marbella Beach. Each offers unique experiences, with personalized coaching, stunning coastal scenery, and high praise from local surf enthusiasts.
For a more immersive surf holiday experience, nearby Moliets offers surf camps that combine lessons with communal activities and nature, ideal for longer stays.
Exploring Biarritz
Beyond surfing, Biarritz offers a wealth of experiences. La Grande Plage, a sandy arc overlooking the Casino Municipal de Biarritz, is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. The town's narrow lanes, preserved historical villas, and charming peaks like the Rocher de la Vierge add to its charm.
Museum lovers should visit the Cité de l'Océan et du Surf, an immersive museum combining science, interactive exhibits, and local oceanography, and the Biarritz Aquarium, located adjacent to the Rocher de la Vierge.
Dining in Biarritz
Dining in Biarritz is a gastronomic delight, with Basque pintxos, fresh seafood, regional cheeses, and more local specialties on offer. Some commonly mentioned "best of" restaurants include L'Impertinent, Cheri Bibi, La Table d'Aurélien Largeau, AHPĒ, Auberge 22, and La Casa Juan Pedro.
Getting Around Biarritz
Biarritz is super walkable, but public transit options also make it easy to get around. The town is packed with surf shops, fresh seafood spots, bars with panoramic views, and iconic markets such as Les Halles.
Accommodation in Biarritz
Accommodation options in Biarritz range from budget hotels and hostels to cozy private rentals, small villas, and oceanfront resorts.
Historical Biarritz
The Hôtel du Palais, once a palatial home to Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie, is a testament to the town's elegant history. Vacationing European royals were once drawn to Biarritz by its therapeutic waves.
Phare de Biarritz and Port des pêcheurs
A visit to Biarritz wouldn't be complete without seeing the Phare de Biarritz, a lighthouse built in 1834, located 240 feet above sea level, offering excellent views of the entire region. The Port des pêcheurs, where fisherfolk still bring in early morning catches, adds to the town's old-world charm.
La Maison du Surf and Port Vieux
La Maison du Surf, at the heart of Biarritz's surfing culture, celebrates all-things-surfing and offers a retrospective of the sport and culture in Biarritz going back to the 1960s. Port Vieux, a quieter cove in Biarritz, sheltered from currents and waves, makes for a perfect spot for peaceful wading and swimming.
Biarritz, often referred to as the "Surfing Capital of France," offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, history, and gastronomy. Whether you're a surfing novice or a seasoned pro, a foodie or a history buff, Biarritz promises an unforgettable experience.
- For Sports enthusiasts interested in European-leagues, a visit to Biarritz might offer unexpected surprises, considering the town's rich surfing culture. The European-leagues could possibly introduce exciting competition to local sports bars, creating an interesting fusion of surfing and football in Biarritz.
- Travel guides suggesting Biarritz as a surfing haven might also include recommendations for football matches, contributing to a well-rounded travel experience for those who appreciate both sports while exploring the European coastlines.
