Located on the Côte Basque, Biarritz is a beautiful coastal town in the southwest of France, known for its stunning beaches, delicious Basque cuisine, and buzzing nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventure around the Basque Country, there is an endless list of places to explore in the area. Here we discuss some of the best places to travel near Biarritz, from coastal towns to charming mountain villages.
St. Jean De Luz, France
Less than 18 miles away from Biarritz, lies Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a beautiful fishing village in the Bay of Biscay. St. Jean is a popular holiday destination for many tourists, not only for its golden sandy beaches, but for its stylish shops, intriguing coastal paths and vibrant Basque culture. The village also features a wide range of restaurants, serving authentic Basque fare, delicious seafood and traditional tapas-style dishes. As the birthplace of maritime exploration, St. Jean-de-Luz offers a variety of boat tours around the picturesque bay, where visitors can admire the stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea.
For those wanting to explore history, the town is well-known for being the location of the secret wedding of Louis XIV and Maria Teresa in 1722. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Church of Saint Jean-Baptiste which was the venue of the union. The nearby City Hall, Chamber of Commerce, and Maritime Museum, built in the town’s traditional style, are also worth a visit. St. Jean-de-Luz should definitely be included in your itinerary for a visit near Biarritz.
Pau, France
Inland from St. Jean de Luz, lies the city of Pau, at the gateway to the Pyrenees. The city features a mix of vibrant nightlife and stunning architecture, including the fairytale-like castle of Beau Soleil and the 16th-century Boufflers Pavillion, as well as Art Deco and Renaissance buildings. Well-known in the area as a hub of sporting activity, Pau offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy exciting sports like skiing, surfing, kayaking, and sailing. The Plaza Real and Place Clemenceau provide excellent spots for people looking to sit down for lunch, or sip a glass of wine in the city’s bustling center.
Visitors should also make time to visit the Museum Beaumont, featuring the largest collection of Spanish art outside of Spain. It houses over 5,000 pieces and includes works by Picasso, El Greco, Velazquez and other artists. Alternatively, a visit to the remarkable Château de Pau, which is both a historic landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is sure to provide a truly enchanting experience.
Bidarrak, France
Located at the very edge of the Pyrenees, Bidarrak offers visitors the chance to explore some of the most gorgeous scenery in Southwest France. This attractive village features a number of traditional French chalets as well as a spectacular lake surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Visitors can take a hike up the nearby Mount Anie or explore the Navarra mountains for some spectacular sightseeing. The village also has a selection of small shops, restaurants, and cafes for guests to enjoy.
Once known as the capital of the Basque Provinces, the mountain village is dotted with fortifications that date back to the 16th century. Beyond the significant defense structures, the village maintains strong cultural ties to mountain living, with small farms and homes that are centuries-old. Itinerary planners should definitely add the village of Bidarrak to their list of places to explore near Biarritz.
The Landes Coast
Biarritz and its neighboring area form part of the Atlantic Coast which is known for its vast forests and long sandy beaches. The Landes Coast is dotted with amazing seafood restaurants perched along the many shorelines and canals. There are a number of small petite towns between the main city of Biarritz and the edge of the forest. Tourists will find many cosy restaurants, beaches, and picturesque surf spots.
The parish of St Julien en Bourdeaux has many charming homes and farms dotting the shoreline of the Landes Coast. Visitors can paddle along the waterways and visit the centuries-old churches to receive some peace and quite. Neyac, a small fishing village, features the fascinating Museum of Shells as well as a picturesque beach where tourists can relax and relish the stunning views.
Overall, the region near Biarritz is home to many beautiful places to explore, from coastal towns to breathtaking scenery. Whether you are looking for an action-packed adventure, or a serene beach holiday, there something for everyone. With breathtaking views and an array of activities and attractions, Biarritz and its vicinity offer an unforgettable experience.
