Best Things To Do In Biarritz: Monarch Of The Basque Coast

If the walls could talk! Built in the late 19^th century, Villa Belza – meaning black in Basque – is a house full of obscurities (hence, the name.) Located between the The Rock of the Virgin and The Devil’s Bridge, its mysterious atmosphere has always been the background of dark and local legends of witches and ghosts. Perched on a rock, overlooking the distant mountains, Villa Belza is the most symbolic figure of Biarritz and is present on all postcards and tourist images. Beyond its mesmerizing ambiance, the Villa has an interesting history. During the Roaring 20s, it was converted into a Russian cabaret and later on was the setting for a few movies. After two devastating fires, however, the house was left in a state of decrepitude until it was renovated and classified as a historical monument in 1997 by the city. Today, after numerous renovations and modernization, you can rent a studio in this exceptional setting (at your own peril…)

One of the most popular activities to do in Biarritz is simply laying on the beach or surfing! Today, Biarritz adopted the California-style beach culture as surfing was embraced by both locals and tourist, putting the city on the map as the birthplace of European surfing. For surf lovers, we recommend setting sail for La Plage de la Côte des Basques, known for its impressive waves and breathtaking view on the mountains and Spanish coast. The most famous beach in the coastal city is La Grande Plage. With its striped huts, glittering water, and cafés; this beach is worthy of a postcard. Finally, La Plage Miramar is a family favorite as it is located at the bottom of a cove.

Surrounded by crashing waves and rock formations, The Rock of the Virgin is impossible to miss and is a true Basque icon. The statue of the Virgin Mary was built under the Second Empire by sailors who were saved from shipwreck by a mysterious light on top of these rocks. Later on, Napoleon III used it as an anchor point for the harbor. Originally, you could reach the rock by a wooden pedestrian bridge, but it was replaced by a metallic one in 1887 by Gustav Eiffel (the same architect who built the Eiffel Tower.) Be sure to enjoy the picturesque setting as you cross it. For a more precise look, a tunnel was built under the rock as a way to observe the beaches and the view more closely.

Le Café Basque is a mythical address in the heart of the bustling Biarritz, that we recommend for lunch! Attracting an overall jet set clientele and passing tourists, this restaurant/hotel is must-do as it is one of the oldest and proudest institutions of this town. Chef Cedric Bechade has created a superb menu honoring Basque dishes, such as: a deconstructed piperade (the famous Basque vegetable stew) and roasted calf with toasted broth. We highly recommend trying the marinated scallops– extraordinary, but don’t forget to leave room for dessert as the Framboisier is to die for.  These courses have put Chef Bechade in the spotlight, as one of the most up-and-coming chefs in the region. Enjoy these delicate dishes in the blue-toned dining room, offering a breathtaking view of the sea.

Situated in the Fishermen’s Harbor, Chez Albert is a locally-known establishment facing the open sea. If you are an avid fish lover, we strongly recommend dining there. Fresh and diverse, Chez Albert offers a rich selection of seafood platters, oysters, shrimps, langoustines, lobsters, clams…etc. Do not forget to try its signature dish: a roasted Saint-Pierre accompanied by seasonal vegetables. To underline the whole experience, the seafood is supplemented with Normand butter, rye bread, lemon, vinegar, and shallot. Ideally located on the dock, enjoy a seafood platter and a glass of white wine either in the dining room or on the shaded terrace.

A must-do in Biarritz is relishing in an oyster shack for lunch! La Cabane à Huîtres welcomes you in a rustic shack infused with vintage pieces of décor. The owners, Sophie and Laurent, created a simple yet delicious menu offering nothing but fresh and local seafood. On the shadowy terrace, revel in diverse plates, including: oysters, scallops, shrimps, and whelks while savoring a glass (or a bottle) of white wine. We suggest ordering a few different courses and sharing it between your party. It makes the experience further pleasurable! La Cabane à Huîtres represents the perfect refreshing and invigorating mid-day break.

Le Château du Clair de Lune in Biarritz combines a rustic manor in the middle of nature, as well as a charming restaurant. The four-star hotel is snuggled away from the busy city life, in an 8-hectare park filled with magnolias and roses. Romantically named, its graceful architecture matches its name. With a white façade, vegetation, and fountains; the hotel perfectly embodies the Basque way of life. The rooms are equally spaced out across the manor and the hunting lodge, rocked in an old-world elegance, featuring 18^th century furniture, typical bathrooms, and a beautiful view on the mansion’s garden. On site, many services are offered, such as: a pool, horseback riding, golfing, kayaking, an enchanting restaurant…etc. For a modest but tasty diner, L’Atelier is a delightful option. Under the supervision of the Michelin-starred chef, Alexandre Bousquet, you will be able to sample Basque dishes made with high-quality ingredients, such as: the golden sautéed calf sweetbread with onion or the traditional grilled Turbot. Culinary reference in Biarritz, enjoy the chef’s plates on the restaurant’s shaded terrace overlooking the private park.

This is probably the most famous hotel in all of Biarritz and is perfect for a late-night drink on the terrace. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Hôtel du Palais is flawlessly located on the beach while being within walking-distance from the town’s center. Built during the Second Empire, this luxury hotel was a token of love from Napoleon III to his wife, Empress Eugenie. Combining an undeniable link to the past while serving as a symbol of French opulence, the five-star resort is an icon and retains its splendour to this day. Famous stars, politicians, and international clients come from all over the globe to stay in this prestigious establishment. Each of the 86 rooms and 56 suites are a testament to the hotel’s history and offer unique views on Biarritz’s rooftop or the ocean. After dinner, head to the Napoleon III bar to appreciate a much-needed cocktail from its vast selection of whiskeys, vintage champagnes, and wine. For a wellness day, a spa – spread out on four floors – is at your disposal featuring an indoor pool, saunas, hammams, and many more services. Hôtel du Palais is more than a hotel, it is a Basque legend.

For a lavish wine tasting in a chic ambiance, l’Artnoa is the place to be. Especially if you wish to gain a deeper understanding of wine traditions. Serving as both a wine cellar and a wine bar, sample exquisite and various wines accompanied by high-quality boards: white ham with truffle, charcuterie, cheese, tarama…etc. The owner, Antoine, is simply charming and more than happy to share his experience and knowledge of wine with the customers. In addition to the dazzling vino, various services are offered, including: wine tasting courses, organizing personalized cellars, selection of wines by the glass, and numerous others. Champagne, rosé, white and red wine…what more could you ask for?