From the seawalls of Saint-Jean de Luz to the rocky formations of Guéthary, the Basque coast really is something to see! A surfer’s paradises -Biarritz, Anglet and Hendaye- and rich fishing ground -Ciboure- life here revolves around the ocean, though the La Rhune mountain range, in the western Pyrenees, is home to a plethora of hiking and mountain biking trails to explore. Then, of course, there is the string of villages, including Sare, Espelette and Ainhoa to name but a few, that make up the hinterland, boasting a rich heritage that the Basque people ardently defend, with its traditional half-timbered houses and their coloured shutters -etxea-, its rich local cuisine, its songs and its festivals and other celebrations. A region that’s sure to steal your heart.
The real estate market : booming
The market here is booming, with property prices in Biarritz, the epicentre of the region, up by 60% since 2018. They now reach up to €8,000 per sq.m in Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Biarritz and as much as €15,000 per sq.m for properties with sea views. Anglet, a peaceful little enclave between the forest of Chiberta and the Atlantic Ocean, Bidart with its unspoilt beaches, and Guéthary with its easy living all have endless appeal.
Our advice
Properties here are rare, so meticulous research and great responsiveness are excellent assets to have.
Location is king. If you aspire to an “accessible on foot” lifestyle, then you’ll no doubt want to be close to the beaches.
Recommendations
Each village and each spot has its own distinct feel. We’re here to guide you. Those looking for peace and quiet, for example, will appreciate the Parc d'Hiver in Biarritz and its magnificent properties complete with swimming pools, while the Les Halles district, brought to life by its vibrant markets, is a safe bet for those who like things a little livelier.
Art of living
Unspoiled landscapes, rich, plentiful soils and artisan skills are what the Basque coast is all about, passionately keeping the traditions of the past alive.
Culture and excursions
The Basque Corniche
@paysbasque_tourisme
The cliffs between Ciboure and Hendaye have stood facing off with the ocean for 100 million years, and owe their jagged lines to the famous Belharra wave that only the most experienced of surfers can tame. Perhaps best appreciated from this unique viewing point.
200 route de la Corniche, 64122 Urrugne
Villa Arnaga
@paysbasque_tourisme
Born of the imagination of playwright Edmond Rostand, Villa Arnaga celebrates the life of the Cyrano author. So much so that you might almost be able to hear him reciting his verses beneath the pergola of the formal garden...
Route du Docteur Camino, 64250 Cambo-les-Bains
Sophie de Sagazan
@sdesagazan
This big fan of the Basque coast brings its contours to life with her delicate brushstrokes. Her translucent glazes and deep hues bring a certain radiance to her frescoes and trompe l'oeil pieces.
64640 Saint-Martin-d’Arberoue
Shopping
Bayona
@espadrille_bayona
Shoemakers Bayona have been weaving espadrilles by hand for five generations. Customers can choose their favourite models from the elegant range on offer, which include natural canvas and velvety suede. Definitely not one to miss!
60 rue Gambetta, 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Amestoy
@amestoy.joailliers
Having previously trained on Place Vendôme, jeweller Christophe Amestoy has chosen his hometown of Biarritz to showcase his creations, which are inspired by organic forms and Basque mythology.
8 avenue Édouard VII, 64200 Biarritz
Guerlain Imperial Spa
@spa_imperial_biarritz
The former holiday destination of Empress Eugenie is now home to a Guerlain Spa. A haven of indulgence where you can cocoon yourself in the royal jelly that has become so strongly associated with Napoleon.
1 avenue de l’Impératrice, 64200 Biarritz
The hottest reservations in town
Alaïa
@restaurantalaïa
Alaïa is the Basque term for ‘joy’. And that is exactly what you can expect to experience by the bucketload on the terrace of this restaurant adjacent to Socoa beach. The selection of natural wines on offer here, not to mention the organic fruit and vegetables, are as good for the soul as they are on the tastebuds.
Plage de Socoa, 2 allée André Hiriart, 64500 Ciboure
Chistera
Chistera or Xistera? That’s a debate that’s been raging since the brewery opened two years ago. While the spelling of the name may divide opinion, the menu, which includes spicy tapas dishes and Galician-style octopus, does anything but.
17 boulevard Victor Hugo, 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz
The Pavillon du Phare
@pavillonduphare
This open-air cocktail spot is lit by the beacon of the lighthouse in Biarritz. A great place to share a farm-to-table charcuterie or seafood board on the panoramic terrace.
60 B esplanade Élisabeth II, 64200 Biarritz
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