Biarritz Travel Guide: Top Must-Do's in Southwest France
Biarritz with its many surrounding towns and landscapes has it all for any kind of traveller.
Beach & Surf-
Biarritz is the birthplace of European surfing, In 1957, the American Peter Viertel, husband of the actress Deborah Kerr, was the first to surf the waves of Biarritz. In Biarritz the surf culture is everywhere, and surfers from all over the world flock to the beaches of biarritz to catch waves, or even learn how.
Not a surfer? No problem! Lounge on the many beaches, or sit next to the water while sipping a rose. At Plage Port Vieux de Biarritz sits my favorite little spot that I take everyone to. Eden Rock is tucked into the side of the cliff’s edge, where you are perched right over the water. Listening to the waves, watching the sun drift by and enjoying great starters and cocktails.
This beach is also perfect for swimming and relaxing and is one of my favorites in the area. I recommend an early morning beach session before it gets too crowded, followed by an afternoon apero at Eden Rock.
Glitz & Glam
Biarritz is also known for its great shopping, having all the famous French brands within walking distance of the city centre. Shops like Bash, Sezanne, Hermes and more.
The Grand Palais, built by Napoleon for his wife Eugénie, turned Biarritz into a summer hotspot for royals and Hollywood stars. Now part of Hyatt, you can stay there or visit for a drink or dinner at one of their bars and restaurants, including a whiskey bar that was once Napoleon's office.
Mountains -
For hiking enthusiasts, La Rhune is a must. Visible along the coastline, it offers starting points in both France and Spain. The hike takes a few hours round trip, with a steep and rocky final stretch. During summer, a café at the top serves visitors who hike or take the tourist train.
Les Halles -
One of the coolest parts of Europe are their markets. Biarritz just happens to have one of the most beautiful Les Halles I have been to. Filled with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, pixchos, patisserie, really anything you could want. It also serves as a great town meeting spot during the day. Grabbing a coffee with your friend, having a crepe for lunch or just a good rendezvous spot. In the afternoons and evenings the area around Les Halles is pumping with restaurants, bars and locals enjoying the night.
Good Coffee-
Okay, Okay, maybe this isn’t on everyone’s radar but it is the FIRST thing I need to know when I get to my vacation destination. Living in Australia has admittedly made me a coffee snob, and the black coffees at the french cafes just don’t cut it.
Below are my top three coffee/ cafe choices:
Lobita Cafe
They have two locations, one in Les Halles, standing room only bar or take away, or their full cafe tucked a few mins by car out of town. They have great baristas and brunch options.
Coffee Station number 4
Right in the Centre of town near Les Halles, Coffee station number 4 is a small spot that serves the most amazing Salty Pancakes. This husband and wife duo working out of a teeny tiny space, deliver high quality and mouth watering dishes. And of course, the coffee is spot on.
Volt Cafe
Volt Cafe is actually in Anglet, one town over. This local roaster also has a large cafe in Hossegor, which if you are there, is a great spot and really reminds of Australia! Great people, great vibes, great coffee and Matcha lattes.
Restaurants
The Basque country is renowned for its fresh local produce. While it offers options for non-meat eaters, the region truly shines with its exceptional meat and fish dishes.
La Belloteca - Owned by former professional Rugby player David Roumieu, this local spot is a fan favourite. Right in the centre of Biarritz next to Les Halles, they are known for their Galician cut Cote de boef, matured for up to 60 days.
Casa Juan Pedro
The most iconic seaside Biarritz fish spot, only open during the summer season, Casa Juan Pedro. Nestled into the port in Biarritz, two brothers running lunch and dinner all from the outdoor kitchen. Authentic, fresh, and waterside. But, it’s not possible to book, and people do start to queue before opening at 7pm. I’d suggest getting there at 6:45pm to snag a table for the first service. Unlike most French restaurants, they are quick to turn tables, so you should be able to snag a table if you are late but up for waiting.
Biarritz really has something to offer everyone, and is a place that will steal your heart!
