Biarritz Historical Landmarks Tour

Overview

Discover how a small Basque whaling and fishing community became one of Europe's most elegant seaside resorts. On this relaxed English-language walking tour, explore Biarritz's most iconic landmarks and hear the stories that shaped the town: Empress Eugénie's love affair with the coast, the dramatic rebirth of the Hôtel du Palais, the rise of sea bathing, the forgotten whaling era and Napoleon III's unsuccessful dream of building a harbour protected from the Atlantic. The walk includes the Hôtel du Palais, Grande Plage, Rocher de la Vierge, the fishermen's port, Port-Vieux and views of Villa Belza. Combining history, ocean scenery and local anecdotes, it is an ideal introduction for first-time visitors.