A Date with Biarritz
We were staying at a wonderful bed and breakfast in the tiny village of Bescat when, one morning, we decided to drive to Biarritz! The village of Bescat is located in the Ossau Valley of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department and the drive to Biarritz was about 2 hours. What I love about France are the great underground parking spaces right in the centre of towns or, in this this case, right at the beach. As you step out of your car, muzak soothes you after the drive. Locating a parking spot is relatively easy and the parking fees are reasonable. We parked at La Grande Plage parking station and made our way to the Café de la Grande Plage.
Chris enjoying his date with Biarritz
With a sea view, we enjoyed a few drinks followed by lunch. Then we headed down to the beach for a swim in the Atlantic Ocean.
Lunch with a view
The beach was relaxed. Unlike many we have encountered in our European travels, there was no need to pay and rent a sun bed. We could spread out our beach towel on the sand and head for the surf. Yes, there is surf in Biarritz!
Surf’s up
We didn’t feel the need to shop or visit the Casino Barriere, one of two Art Deco style casinos in Biarritz. We were just content to soak up the sun, surf and views.
Lots of colour and a relaxed beach style
This is a city that I would definitely put on my list for a longer visit. Hotel du Palais Biarritz would be my pick for accommodation, although not in our price range! Built in 1854, it was the former Imperial residence of Napoleon III and Princess Eugenie de Montijo. It is now a 5 star hotel, part of the Hyatt group of hotels, which has been restored to conserve the 19th century elegance and, best of all, it is located right on La Grande Plage. However, there are many choices of different types of accommodation.
Le rocher des enfants lay just off of La Grande Plage
You can cross the bridge to the Rocher de la Vierge (The Virgin’s Rock). Napoleon III decided to cut a tunnel through the rock and had the bridge built to make it accessible from the seafront. The first bridge was wooden and could not withstand the crashing Atlantic waves. So, in 1887, Gustave Eiffel designed the metal bridge that still stands today. It is an iconic landmark of the city and provides stunning views along the Basque coastline. The Biarritz Aquarium was opened in 1933 in an Art Deco building and its collection has expanded into a modern extension.
Patrolled beach … swim between the blue flags
Biarritz is located in the Basque region, which extends south into Spain. This region is characterised by wooded and gentle hills, Pyrénées mountains and the Atlantic coast. There’s plenty of history, art, Basque heritage and sport. Remember to enjoy the gastronomy specific to this region; including ham, cheese and Espelette peppers.
Take a quick trip to Biarritz with this video. More information can be found on the tourism website and perhaps, like me, you will decide that Biarritz is a great destination.
À bientot.
