What to do in Biarritz: the must-sees

In the heart of the Basque Coast, between the Pyrenees and the ocean, Biarritz is one of the most famous seaside resorts of the Basque Coast. Famous all over the world for its beaches, its surf spots and its rich architectural heritage, the "Queen of the Beaches and Beach of Kings", so dear to Empress Eugénie, offers many opportunities for visits and meetings. With the 5-star Camping Le Vieux Port, discover all there is to do and visit in Biarritz!

THE ELEGANT AND IMPERIAL CITY OF BIARRITZ

Before becoming a surfing town in the 1960s, Biarritz was first a whaling port in the early Middle Ages before becoming Biarritz "la mondaine", a holiday resort for the aristocracy and crowned heads of Europe. It was the Empress Eugénie de Montijo, wife of Napoleon III, who persuaded the Emperor to install the summer residence of the imperial court there, after his visit in 1854. From then on, Biarritz was promoted to "Queen of Beaches and Beach of Kings". The building, built in the shape of an E, in homage to the Empress' first name, became the Hôtel du Palais, the most exclusive establishment in the city. A few steps away, you can visit the Imperial Chapel which served as a place of worship for Napoleon III and the Empress.

BIARRITZ IN THE HEART OF THE WAVE

In the capital of French surfing, surfing is a way of life. It was in Biarritz that surfing made its appearance in France at the end of the 1950s. Birthplace of the "tontons surfeurs", the beach on the Basque coast has become mythical. It is here that the Biarritz Surf Festival takes place every summer in July, the unmissable meeting place for lovers of surf culture.

THE VIRGIN ROCK

A real curiosity in Biarritz, the Rocher de la Vierge owes its name to the statue of the Madonna which was erected on its summit in 1865. From this large rock in the shape of a long ship's hull, you can admire a splendid view of the bay of Biarritz.

THE BIARRITZ AQUARIUM

Located opposite the Rocher de la Vierge, the Cité de l'Océan in Biarritz invites you on a marvellous journey twenty thousand leagues under the sea. Sharks, turtles, rays and all sorts of multicoloured fish take visitors on an exceptional dive into the heart of the oceans! An unmissable outing with the children during your camping holiday near Biarritz!

THE BIARRITZ LIGHTHOUSE

Built in 1834, the Biarritz lighthouse, with its 248 steps, is the object of much attention. From the top of its 73 metres, the lighthouse dominates the Basque coast, offering a 360 degree panoramic view of the town, the Grande Plage and the coastline.

THE FISHERMEN'S PORT

Biarritz would not be Biarritz without its port! Take advantage of your camping holiday to stroll around the Port des Pêcheurs, a village within the city with its history, its unique atmosphere, its fishermen's cottages (the famous crampottes) and its restaurants overlooking the ocean. If you are looking for picturesque, you will be served!

LES HALLES DE BIARRITZ

If you are a great lover of gastronomy, you must visit the market of Les Halles de Biarritz to taste the culinary specialities of the Basque Country: Bayonne ham, Espelette pepper, pintxos, muxu, fish and seafood, ewe's milk cheese, Basque cake... The list is long and your taste buds will crave for more!

THE CAMPSITE'S FAVOURITE :

Get on board the Little Train of Biarritz and discover all the emblematic sites of the town centre: the old port, the Great Beach, the Russian Orthodox Church of Biarritz, the Virgin Rock, the lighthouse, the casino, the Belle Époque villas... A guided tour that children are sure to enjoy!