Try Biarritz For An Inclusive Surf Scene, Buckets Of Shellfish And Laid-Back Basque Vibes

Where?

Biarritz, France

Why now?

On France’s southwestern coast, this laid-back Basque town is a surf capital of the world, set against the Basque Country’s breathtaking interior landscapes. A popular seaside resort for Europe’s elite in the 1800s, the ritzy retreat has since transitioned into the continent’s surfing mecca. Picture yourself riding waves, eating seafood straight from the water and soaking up golden sunsets against the backdrop of handsome promenade architecture and the untamed Atlantic coastline.

The inclusive Queen Classic Surf Festival (14-16 September) draws longboarders from around the world to the French town at summer’s end, as surfers shake up traditional clichés and celebrate underrepresented surf communities, including women and queer riders. The event showcases the town's iconic surf status and its welcoming spirit – with world-class surfers such as Lola Mignot, Elisa Aberlbide and transgender surfer Sasha Jane Lowerson hitting the waves.

Beyond the beach, though, Biarritz also has a thriving creative scene, with eclectic art galleries, lively music venues and emerging restaurants adding to its charm. If you’re heading over before September, there’s still plenty to explore, from quiet sandy expanses to the epic Pyrenees and rolling Basque Country hills away from the coast.

Don’t miss

This is France, so, of course, the food is good. Prepare for explorations with a caffeine fix at third-wave coffee roastery Lobita, then stroll through the town’s Les Halles food market to assemble the perfect Basque beach picnic: you’ll find fresh oysters, artisan bread, local hams and cheeses, to name just a few. And don't forget to grab a box of Basque macarons or a traditional Basque cake from the famed Maison Adam, either.

Where to stay

With its art deco exterior and beautiful rooms, hotel Casaviel embodies the perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary comfort. It’s all light-filled spaces, with big beds, crisp white linen and soft wooden accents. The bed and breakfast is an authentic Basque 17th-century farmhouse situated on one of the region’s oldest farms, and located just a 10-minute walk from the beach.

Where to eat

Chéri Bibi serves modern Basque cuisine and offers a first-class selection of natural wines. Fresh, seasonal dishes highlight local ingredients – think Caesar-dressed artichokes, orecchiette tossed lightly with spinach and gorgonzola, and chocolate mousse drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of za’atar.

Where to drink

Join the locals at Le Surfing as the sun sets to sip a cold beer and watch the waves roll in.

Who to take with you

A friend with a penchant for surfing, oysters and natural wine.

Essentials to pack

The Atlantic Ocean is not known for being the warmest: pack some cosy clothes to throw on after a bracing surf.