Biarritz city
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Biarritz - by Mairie de Biarritz
Description
Biarritz is a renowned oceanside tourist destination since the end of the 19th century, in particular in the UK. It is located in the French Basque Country, in the southwest of France Highlights include the spectacular Rocher de la Vierge, the various beaches and surfing breaks, the casino and Hotel du Palais (built for Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III), and its classy white buildings. From the 12th century onward, it first developed as a whaling town which shifted to cod fishing in the 16th century and then on to sea-bathing tourism in the 19th century. Surfing took off in the 1950's and the city is known as one of the best European spots and regularly holds a world tour competition.
Access & Transport
The train station is 3km to the southeast of the city centre and connects the town with Bordeaux (and further on Paris) and Pau / Toulouse. It is also possible to get the train into Spain but requires a change in Hendaye or Irun to continue further south. By car one should take exit #4 on the A63 when coming from Biarritz/Bayonne. It is about 1h20' to Pau and 2h30 to Bordeaux using the expressways. Finally, Biarritz airport has a few domestic and European flights every day and is only about 5kms from the centre of the city.
Instructions & Recommendations
We recommend combining a visit of the city with some of the local beaches or a visit of Bayonne and/or Saint Jean de Luz and make it 2-3 days stay. Those with extra days can also explore the inland villages of the Basque country and push south all the way to Hendaye and even San Sebastian in Spain.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral Socially, the benefits of tourism balance out the drawbacks of over-commercialisation.
Conclusion
Biarritz's reputation did not come out of nowhere, there is a little bit of everything for everybody with sweeping views, excellent surf and beaches, many activities on offer, a mix of cultures, good shopping, and some excellent restaurants. It plays in a different register from Bayonne, Saint Jean de Luz or Hendaye and, just like those cities/towns, it can be used as a base to explore the region.
Key positive
Impressive rocks formations and battering surf when the wind picks up
Variety of things to do
Excellent regional connectivity and a few European flights
Key negative
Expensive accommodation and stores
Weather is highly unpredictable, even in the summer
Suitability
Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility but some assistance might be required as some of the streets have relatively strong gradients.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:5h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo