Top 5 things to do in Biarritz

The Basque Country is full of beautiful places to discover. From the little hidden corners with their breathtaking views over the ocean to the narrow streets of Biarritz with its traditional houses, let yourself be surprised by the beauty of this land. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never be bored! Whether you like sporting activities or just hanging around, you’ve come to the right place.

What to do in Biarritz

1- Go hiking at La Rhune

Category: Free / Sporting

Description: Get away from Biarritz and take a breath of fresh air at the top of La Rhune. Located just under an hour from the city centre, La Rhune is a mountain known to all Basques and inhabitants of the South-West. It takes two hours to reach the summit. If the hike isn’t to everyone’s taste, you can also take an old-fashioned train straight to the summit. However, nothing beats walking. You’ll have the chance to meet some Pottoks. Perhaps the name doesn’t ring a bell. They are a breed of pony that lives exclusively in the south-west and the Basque country. In Basque, “pottok” means “little horse”. In the past, it was used by the locals to carry out agricultural tasks. Today, it has become an emblem of La Rhune. Once you’ve reached your goal, you’ll have a breathtaking view of three different panoramas: the Pyrenees, the Atlantic coast, and a view of the Spanish coast.

2- Discover Biarritz by sampling the local specialities

Category: $$ / Cultural / Gastronomic / Unusual

Description: For those of you with a sweet tooth! What would you say to strolling through the narrow cobbled streets of Biarritz and sampling a number of local specialities? For almost three hours, fall in love with the neo-Basque architectural style and its gastronomy. In groups of 8, you’ll have the chance to spend a convivial moment to remember. Sweet or savoury, you’re in for a treat! And if you’re vegetarian, don’t worry, you’re bound to find something to suit you! Accompanied by a guide described as “top notch”, Tristan will teach you about the history of Biarritz and its restaurants over a delicious meal.

3- Learn to surf on Biarritz’s most beautiful beaches

Category: $$ / Sport

Description: When you think of the Basque Country and its beaches, you inevitably think of surfing. The Atlantic Ocean is renowned for its waves, which can sometimes be impressive. Its currents provide good surfing spots. The Basque coast is one of the most popular surfing spots in France. You can take a one-day course, or opt for a full week’s training. The session consists of a half-hour warm-up and muscular awakening, followed by an hour and a half of practice. If you opt for the week-long package, you’ll have the opportunity to collect photos of yourself taken during the sessions.

4- Discover the Basque Country by boat

Category: $$ / Unusual

Description: Discover the Basque Country from the coast, if the weather’s right, don’t hesitate! Leave from the port of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and discover the sublime Bay of Loya, a little jewel situated between the cornice and the cliffs of Hendaye. This buried treasure lies downstream from the Château d’Abbadia, a listed historic monument. The Bay of Loya is off-limits to visitors. The Domaine d’Abbadia is owned by the Conservatoire du Littoral, which is doing its utmost to protect these areas, which are home to a biological and geological reserve classified as a Sensitive Natural Area. Access is also forbidden due to erosion and possible landslides that could cause serious accidents. The only way to get there is by boat, as this tour aims to do. After this breathtaking discovery, you will head for the Spanish coast of Cap Figuier. Enjoy the turquoise blue water for a moment’s swim! On the way back, you’ll visit the Socoa fort, built in 1627 and remodelled by Vauban. The aim of this port was to protect the town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz from any Spanish invasion.

5- Learn about the history of Biarritz by visiting its historical museum

Category: $ / Cultural

Description: This museum gives you the chance to discover Biarritz from several different eras. Biarritz has a rich history, and this is the best way to find out more about it. The heartland of Napoleon III and Eugenie, a town of agriculture and fishermen, all these eras are retraced in this museum. The “Friends of the Biarritz Historical Museum” association founded the museum in November 1986 and houses over 5,000 items, including postcards, magazines, engravings, paintings, jewellery and more. The aim of the association is to preserve and pass on the heritage of their town. The association organises numerous exhibitions, concerts, lectures, guided tours and cultural outings. The 350 Biarrots who make up this association are ideally placed to help you discover Biarritz in all its colours!