Virgin Rock

You’re finally facing this iconic landmark of Biarritz! The Virgin Rock is inextricably linked with the town’s image and its history is intimately linked with its maritime and imperial past! The name of this pierced rock obviously comes from the statue of the Virgin Mary that sits on top of it. On a stormy day, it’s a truly magnificent sight, caught in the swell and gazing out at the horizon. Legend has it that at the end of the 19th century, fishermen caught in a storm saw a divine light on the rock, which helped them to find their way home safely. To show their gratitude, the survivors had a 3-metre high statue of the Virgin erected! Napoleon III decided to have the rock drilled to create a safe port, a breakwater and a wooden footbridge linking it to the coast. However, the little wooden bridge didn’t last long, as it was badly damaged by the rough seas. In 1887, it was replaced by a metal footbridge inspired by the work of Gustave Eiffel. You can admire the entire bay of Biarritz from the top of this rock. To your right is the long beach and to your left the Basque coast stretching as far as the Pyrenees! Now turn around and head for the big white building you see on the square.