Biarritz is one of the most beloved coastal cities in all of France (which is saying something!) and a name that most have likely heard before, but if you have only a vague sense of the place and are wondering about what exactly has cemented its reputation as a perfect seaside destination then read on! Browse our vacation rentals in Biarritz and then let us inform you all about why this stunning gem of a seaside resort is so famous and why it is the perfect spot for your next getaway in France...
Surfers Unite
Biarritz is considered the home of European surf and has a decades-long tradition of surfing and surf culture in the city. With constant waves but of varying sizes, lots of surf schools and surf-related businesses, Biarritz caters to both seasoned surfers and newcomers alike. Beginners will find suitable waves and conditions between April and October with particularly gentle waves in June and July. La Cote des Basques, located just to the south of the city is also considered one of the best places in all of Europe for beginners to learn to surf. Those looking for bigger waves and more of a challenge, meanwhile, will find the smaller crowds and increasing swell from March to May and September to November a better fit. Advanced surfers who are after the best and most challenging options really should choose October or November for a visit. Surfing at the iconic Grand Plage is definitely a must for its picturesque nature but if you are looking to tackle some more challenging waves, the town of Illbaritz and various other beaches along the coast nearby will be perfect for day-trips and variety throughout your vacation in Biarritz. Surf events and the general surf culture that are a major part of Biarritz further add to it as a destination.
Old School Glamour
The surfer vibes of Biarritz are just a little more unique than other destinations as the bones of the town are incredibly elegant, having been transformed from a fishing village into a fashionable seaside resort in the 19th century. With beautiful old hotels and Belle Époque wonders all along the seafront, this is a town that attracted impossibly glamorous and famous tourists including Empress Eugenie and European royalty, beloved writers like Victor Hugo (whose greatest fear was that the town would, “become fashionable”), 20th century Hollywood actors, and more. While its popularity has variously waned and risen, Biarritz still has its elegant seafront, lush blooms, gorgeous and long Grand Plage fronting the town, impressive casinos, and more. Book your holiday rental in Biarritz and then come and enjoy cocktails in elegant old hotel bars, dine in excellent restaurants in town, admire the views as you promenade, and generally soak up the continuing grandeur of a tourist destination fit for emperors, empresses, kings, and queens.
While these are the things that have made Biarritz famous, those who find a vacation rental in Biarritz and spend time in town will discover that it has plenty of other charms and things to see and do on offer as well. From an array of interesting museums to the excellent choice of beaches in and around town to the stunning parks and gardens to great golfing to lovely walking routes, you will never be short of things to keep you occupied and to enjoy while in the area. So, whether you want a holiday full of adventure and sport or you want to take things easy by the sea in the most beautiful of surroundings, Biarritz is the destination for you and one of the most beloved coastal resorts in all of France for some very good reasons indeed!