The spirit of La Belle Epoque is still alive and well in Biarritz. Metro found places to eat, stay and play for any budget.
DAILY BUDGET $50
EAT
Bar du Jardin
Simple but cool little terrace restaurant packed with locals. Seasonal gems include great squid dishes in summer and roasts in winter. Try the Omelette aux cèpes. (bar-dujardin.com)
STAY
La Ferme de Biarritz
Okay it’s actually $5 more than the limit for a double room, but this 17th-century Basque farm is so exquisite that it feels a lot more expensive. Fabulous interior decorating. (fermedebiarritz.com)
PLAY
Surf
The beach is a key draw here (and can get a bit crowded in summer). The surfing is some of the best in Europe and beyond the main beach there are loads of little coves just a few minutes walk away.
DAILY BUDGET $100
EAT
Baleak
Set in the food quarter of Biarritz, Baleak is one of those places where quality is all.
The toasted garlic bread with red mullet is just sublime and the wine list is clever, too. Excellent value. (baleak.fr)
STAY
Hotel Oxo
Doesn’t look much from the outside but the interior is surprisingly modern and stylish. Its very central location allows easy access to the beach, casino, and shops and restaurants in town.
(hotel-oxo.com)
Play
Le Musee de la Mer Aquarium
There’s something about the art deco grandeur of this aquarium that makes it more than the sum of its parts. And the ocean backdrop clinches it. (museedelamer.com)
