Biarritz: A Prestigious French Resort on the Atlantic Coast

Biarritz is a world-renowned French resort located in southwestern France on the coast of the Bay of Biscay. This city, combining the luxury of imperial past with the accessibility of a modern resort, is rightfully considered one of the most prestigious vacation destinations in Europe.

The name of the city has Basque roots and is correctly pronounced as «Biarritz». In English, the spelling «Biarritz» is the official standard.

Biarritz is known not only as an upscale resort with a rich history, but also as one of Europe's leading thalassotherapy centers. The city attracts tourists from around the world thanks to its magnificent beaches, impressive Belle Époque architecture and a unique blend of French charm with Basque traditions.

The resort gained particular fame for its Atlantic waves, which made Biarritz the surfing capital of Europe. International surfing competitions are held here, and excellent conditions for this sport attract enthusiasts from around the world year-round.

Geographic location

Biarritz is located in southwestern France, in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department. The city is situated on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, in the picturesque part of the Atlantic coast known as the Basque Coast (Côte Basque). The distance from Paris to Biarritz is approximately 780 kilometers.

The resort is conveniently positioned in a triangle between three significant points:

• 8 kilometers to the north is the city of Anglet
• 5 kilometers to the south is Saint-Jean-de-Luz
• 25 kilometers from the resort is the border with Spain

The local terrain is characterized by a combination of rocky coastline with sandy beaches. Biarritz's shoreline stretches for 6 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. The relief of the area is characterized by elevation changes, which create picturesque viewpoints and natural observation platforms.

Biarritz has a temperate oceanic climate, which provides comfortable vacation conditions year-round:

• In summer, the average temperature is +20…+25°C
• In winter, the temperature rarely drops below +10°C
• The swimming season lasts from June to September
• The surfing season continues year-round

The resort's accessibility is ensured by several methods:

• Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne International Airport accepts flights from major European cities
• Biarritz railway station is connected to Paris by high-speed TGV trains (travel time approximately 4 hours)
• A developed network of highways connects the resort with major cities in France and Spain

Biarritz's location at the intersection of French and Basque cultures gives the city a special character, and its proximity to Spain makes it an ideal point for exploring the cultures of both countries.

History of the city

The history of Biarritz began in the 12th century as a small fishing village, known for its whale hunting industry. Local fishermen were renowned for their mastery of hunting whales, which regularly appeared off the coast of the Bay of Biscay during that time. This period is commemorated today on the city's coat of arms, which depicts a whaling boat.

Biarritz's transformation into a resort began in the 1750s, when local doctors discovered the healing properties of seawater. The town began to attract the first vacationers wishing to improve their health through sea bathing. However, its true flourishing came in the mid-19th century.

Biarritz's golden age began in 1854, when Empress Eugenie de Montijo, the wife of Napoleon III, chose the city for her summer vacation. By order of the emperor, a summer residence was built on the seashore—the Villa Eugenie (now known as the Hôtel du Palais). This event transformed the modest resort town into a favorite vacation spot for European aristocracy.

During the Belle Époque of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Biarritz reached the peak of its popularity:

• Members of European royal families vacationed here
• The city became a center of high society
• Luxury villas and a casino appeared
• The first grand hotels were built

The 20th century brought new changes to the resort's life. In 1957, the first American surfers appeared on Biarritz's beaches, laying the foundation for the development of surfing in Europe. By the end of the century, the city had become the recognized surfing capital of Europe.

Modern Biarritz has retained its aristocratic charm but has become more democratic:

• The city is a world-class thalassotherapy center
• Annually hosts prestigious surfing competitions
• Combines luxury vacation with democratic beach tourism
• Develops conference tourism and sporting events

Today, Biarritz is not only a prestigious resort but also an important cultural center of the Basque coast, where historical heritage and contemporary tourism and vacation trends are harmoniously combined.

Biarritz as a resort

Biarritz's beaches

Biarritz's shoreline includes six main beaches, each with its own characteristics:

• Grande Plage (Grande Plage)—the city's central beach, popular with swimmers and beginner surfers
• Côte des Basques—a famous surfing beach with picturesque cliffs
• Marbella—a cozy beach for family vacations
• Milady—a spacious beach with developed amenities
• Port Vieux—a small beach protected from waves, ideal for children
• Plage de la Petite Chambre d’Amour—a popular surfing spot

Surfing in Biarritz

Biarritz is recognized as the surfing capital of Europe thanks to unique conditions:

• Stable ocean waves 1 to 3 meters high
• More than 20 surf schools with experienced instructors
• The ability to surf year-round
• Annual international competitions
• Equipment rental and specialized shops

Thalassotherapy

Biarritz is one of Europe's leading thalassotherapy centers. Several specialized centers operate here, offering:

• Therapeutic and wellness programs
• Treatments using seawater and seaweed
• Spa programs for relaxation
• Individual recovery programs

Climate features of the resort

Thanks to its mild oceanic climate, the resort season in Biarritz lasts year-round:

• Summer season (June-September): air temperature +20…+25°C, water +20…+22°C
• Shoulder seasons (April-May, October): air temperature +15…+20°C
• Winter season: mild weather with temperatures rarely below +10°C
• 300 sunny days per year

Additional vacation opportunities

In addition to beach vacations and surfing, the resort offers:

• World-class golf courses
• Tennis courts
• Casino
• Basque cuisine restaurants
• Luxury brand boutiques
• Walking paths along the ocean

The combination of natural conditions, developed infrastructure and rich traditions makes Biarritz a versatile resort suitable for both active and relaxed vacations any time of year.

Main attractions

Biarritz lighthouse

Built in 1834, the lighthouse is one of the city's symbols. The structure stands 73 meters above sea level. Climbing 248 steps, tourists can enjoy panoramic views of the city, ocean and Pyrenees. Particularly impressive views open at sunset.

Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin Rock)

A famous rock with a statue of the Virgin Mary installed on it in 1865, connected to the shore by a metal bridge created by the workshop of Gustave Eiffel. This is one of the most photographed attractions in the city, offering a magnificent view of the coastline.

Hôtel du Palais

The former summer residence of Empress Eugenie, built in 1855. Today it is a luxury five-star hotel that has preserved the atmosphere of the Second Empire. The building is a historical monument and one of the symbols of Biarritz's «golden age».

Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Church

Built in 1892 for Russian aristocracy, the church is a striking example of 19th-century Russian architecture on French soil. The church is active and open to visitors. Icons and interior decoration are of particular value.

Museum of the Sea (Musée de la Mer)

The largest aquarium in the region, housed in an Art Deco building. The museum features:

• More than 50 aquariums with local marine fauna
• An exhibition on the history of whale hunting
• A scientific center for marine research
• A seal pool

Imperial Chapel (Chapelle Impériale)

Built in 1864 in a Romanesque-Byzantine style, the chapel was the private church of Empress Eugenie. It features rich interior decoration and unique stained glass windows.

Casino Municipal

A historic Art Deco building constructed in 1929. In addition to gaming rooms, it houses:

• A theater hall
• Restaurants
• Conference rooms
• Concert venues

Musée Asiatica

One of France's largest museums of Asian art. The collection features:

• Indian sculptures
• Nepalese and Tibetan artifacts
• Chinese art
• Japanese exhibits

Old fishermen's port (Port des Pêcheurs)

A historic district of the city with traditional fishermen's houses (crampottes). Today it is home to cozy restaurants specializing in seafood and Basque cuisine.

All of Biarritz's attractions are conveniently located within walking distance of each other, allowing you to see the main sites in 1-2 days. For a deeper exploration of the city's history and culture, 3-4 days is recommended.

Practical information

Best time to visit

Choosing when to visit Biarritz depends on your goals:

• Beach season: July-September (air temperature +23…+25°C, water +20…+22°C)
• Shoulder season: May-June, September-October (fewer tourists, comfortable temperature)
• Surfing season: year-round (best waves in fall and spring)
• Low season: November-March (minimal prices, but possible rain)

How to get to Biarritz

There are several convenient ways to reach the resort:

By air

Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne International Airport (BIQ):

• Direct flights from Paris (1 hour 15 minutes)
• Seasonal flights from major European cities
• Transfer to city center: taxi, bus #14 (every 30 minutes)

By train

• High-speed TGV trains from Paris (4 hours)
• Regular service to Bordeaux (2 hours)
• Trains from Spain (San Sebastián, 40 minutes)

By car

• From Paris via A10/A63 highway (approximately 8 hours)
• From Bordeaux via A63 (approximately 2 hours)
• From Toulouse via A64 (approximately 3 hours)

Main districts of the city

Biarritz is divided into several distinctive districts:

• Central district (Centre-Ville):
  • Main attractions
  • Boutiques and restaurants
  • Hôtel du Palais
• Lighthouse district (Le Phare):
  • Historic lighthouse
  • Panoramic views
  • Peaceful atmosphere
• Waterfront area (La Grande Plage):
  • Main beach
  • Casino
  • Promenade
• Fishermen's port:
  • Traditional restaurants
  • Authentic atmosphere
  • Fishing houses

Tips for travelers

• Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (July-August)
• Use city buses to travel between beaches
• Bring a windbreaker—the coast is often windy
• Plan to visit attractions in the morning to avoid crowds
• Try local Basque cuisine in restaurants at the fishermen's port
• Purchase a City Pass to save on admission fees

Conclusion

Unique features of the resort

Biarritz stands out among other European resorts thanks to a unique combination of characteristics:

• The synthesis of French elegance and Basque traditions creates a distinctive cultural atmosphere
• A combination of luxury Belle Époque vacation with democratic beach tourism
• The opportunity to combine various types of vacation: from peaceful beach relaxation to active surfing
• Year-round resort season thanks to a mild oceanic climate

Why you should visit Biarritz

The resort offers many reasons to visit:

• Natural assets:
  • Picturesque coastline with magnificent cliffs
  • Pristine beaches with golden sand
  • Healing sea air
  • Unique surfing conditions
• Cultural heritage:
  • Architectural monuments of the Belle Époque
  • Living Basque traditions
  • Rich gastronomic culture
  • Historical attractions
• Modern infrastructure:
  • World-class thalassotherapy centers
  • Developed sports infrastructure
  • Quality hotels of various categories
  • Diverse restaurants and entertainment

An ideal destination for different categories of tourists

Biarritz is suitable for:

• Beach vacation lovers—thanks to magnificent beaches and developed infrastructure
• Surfers of all levels—from beginners to professionals
• Spa and wellness enthusiasts—thanks to thalassotherapy centers
• Food lovers—because of its rich gastronomic culture
• History enthusiasts—thanks to rich historical heritage
• Families with children—because of the variety of entertainment and safe beaches

Biarritz is a place where everyone will find something for themselves, whether it is active recreation, wellness, exploring history or gastronomic discoveries. The unique combination of natural conditions, historical heritage and modern infrastructure makes this resort an attractive travel destination at any time of year.