An Alternative Guide To Biarritz

Biarritz is a great place to come for a holiday and has a large variety of activities that will entertain tourists all year long. Though many may know some of the city’s main attractions, here are three off-the-beaten-path experiences to try that will make a trip to Biarritz a more unique one.

Spend a Day in San Sebastián

For those staying in Biarritz for longer than one weekend, plan a day trip to San Sebastian. Located a short distance from Biarritz, visitors will certainly enjoy their time in this atypical place near the Spanish frontier. Make sure to go to the old part of the city to get a better feel of the warm-local atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to wander on the city’s small street and enjoy some pintxos (local food similar to tapas) with a glass of white wine. Those who arrive early enough can take a walk along the ledge and buy some fresh fish.

San Sebastian, Spain

Learn More About the Surfing Culture Through Art

Biarritz is known for being the birthplace of surf in France. Surfers may already know that and have all the surfing spots to hit already listed somewhere. While in Biarritz, take some time to learn about the history of surfing as well at the Sylvain Cazenave Gallery. As a photographer and a former surfer (he was part of the French national team in his younger days), his amazing photography has graced the pages of Vogue and Elle, and he has worked with Quicksilver, Oxbow, Rip Curl, and other surf powerhouses. His last exhibition featuring surf legend Laird Hamilton is a must-see.

Galerie Sylvain Cazenave, 8 Rue Gambetta, 64200 Biarritz, France, +33 6 03 82 17 75

Try a Food Tour with a Local Guide

When in Biarritz, why not taste the great variety of food the city and the Basque region has to offer? Guides take visitors through Les Halles Market, the epicenter of local food. While there, meet local producers and taste the region’s best food from Bayonne ham to foie gras. Those wanting to cook should definitively join the cooking class of l’Atelier Culinaire et Vous (The Culinary Atelier and You) and learn from a chef (who speaks English) how to cook several specialties from the region.

About the author

Jennifer Migan

Jennifer is a speechwriter and a public speaking coach based in Bordeaux, France. She is also a former professional tennis player. She is the founder of The Speech House which helps people (in English and French) to overcome their fear of public speaking and become better communicators. You can follow her on Instagram @jennifer_migan and on her storytelling platform Unique Stories @uniquestories.co.