The resort town of Biarritz is a popular resort located in the south-west of the French state, in the Pyrenees-Atlantean department (Aquitaine region).
In fact, the borders of Biarritz run along the Cote Basque at Cape St. Martin, adjacent to the cities of Anglet and Bayonne... Biarritz is considered one of the best seaside climatic resorts on the Silver Coast of France.
In the "beautiful era" aristocrats and royalty rested here, and in our time, presidents and other dignitaries stay here. In terms of prices and conditions, the city of Biarritz is comparable to the resort of Saint-Tropez .
Thanks to the powerful waves of the Atlantic, Biarritz is an internationally renowned surf center. 4 kilometers from the city there is international Airport connecting the resort with many cities in France and Europe. In 3 kilometers from the city center there is Train Station, travel time to Paris by high speed train TGV is 5.5 hours.
The resort town of Biarritz is located on the border between the Basque lands and Gascony. On all municipal buildings of the department, next to the flags of France and the European Union, the red-green-white flags of the Basques are also installed.
Geographical location of the city of Biarritz
The resort town of Biarritz is located on the Atlantic coast, in the south-west of France in the depths of the Bay of Biscay, in close proximity to the Spanish-French border. Cape Saint-Martin, on which the Biarritz lighthouse is installed, is the border between sandy beaches Silver Coast of France, starting in the far north in the Gironde, and a steep rocky coast, stretching from here to the south into the Basque lands.
Biarritz was built on several hills along the coast. Most of the city's neighborhoods open onto coves and sandy beaches, including the central Grand Plage, which is systematically mapped using positioning systems and sonar-equipped ships.
In fact, the resort of Biarritz is located on the lands of the historic province of Labourdan at the western border between the Basque lands and Gascony. The territory of the commune is in the extreme southern point distribution area of the Gascon language. According to the Sandre database, only the Atxinetxe canal flows through the commune and, after passing through Anglet, flows into the Adour River in Bayonne.
In the past, up to the beginning of the development of the city and the change in its channels of streams, the local settlement was distinguished by a hilly territory, partly overgrown with gorges, partly swampy, with streams and springs. These streams flowed into a pond located between the beaches of Marbella and Milady, on the site of which a sewage treatment plant is now located.
Biarritz landmarks
One of the main attractions of Biarritz is the local casino, located almost on the banks of the Grand Plage, carefully restored in full accordance with the magnificent appearance of the 1930s.
And around it there are low and rather "amorphous" quarters of the resort itself, the main points of attraction in which are the Church of Saint-Eugene (XIX century), the Imperial Chapel (XIX century), church Saint Martin(XII-XVI centuries), Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral(19th century) and the Asiatica Museum with a good exposition of Indian and Tibetan art from the Michel Postel collection.
In addition, the Museum of the Sea with its aquarium is very popular, as well as the picturesque old port of Pesce, built up restaurants and numerous villas, among which the most famous Hotel du Palais (now a five-star hotel, and in the past, Villa Eugene, built by Napoleon III in the middle of the 19th century for his wife, Empress Eugenie, whom the monarch met in Biarritz).
However, the most recognizable and famous symbol of the city of Biarritz remains the towering cliff statue of the virgin(Virgin Mary), the steel flyover of which was built by Eiffel himself (creator Eiffel tower).
Biarritz resort
The resort town of Biarritz, which received the widest recognition in the 19th century, was built on the site of a small village of whalers (existed since the 11th century), which was noticed in 1843 by the writer Victor Hugo. He foresaw the possibility of transforming Biarritz into one of the best summer resorts on the Atlantic coast.
Initially, the village had two residential areas: the quarter around the Church of Saint-Martin and the quarter in the fishing port (Port-Vieux), which were protected by the Belay or Ferragus castle. The emblem of the settlement depicts a large whaling barge, which still remains the main symbol of the city.
The local population is of Vasconian origin; however, it is difficult to establish the presence of Basque or Gascon roots. Until 1790 Biarritz was part of the Basque province of Labourdan. The first lighthouse was built here in 1650.
Around the end of the 18th century, sea bathing became fashionable in France, and already in 1808 he took sea baths himself in Biarritz Napoleon Bonaparte... In 1854 Empress Eugenia rested here, after which the Emperor Napoleon III ordered the construction of the Villa Eugene (Hotel du Palais). Subsequently, this circumstance began to attract many crowned heads of Europe to Biarritz, and the resort became famous as "the king of beaches and the beach of kings".
In October 1868, during the Biarritz regatta, the crews of the messenger ships of the flotilla west coast France Chamois and Argus had the honor to host Empress Eugenie and her son, the prince of the empire. It was Biarritz that became the meeting place in September 1865 between the "iron chancellor" Bismarck and the emperor Napoleon III, at which the German chancellor sought to enlist the support of the French monarch in Prussian politics.
Several buildings unusual for this area have survived to this day in Biarritz, including a two-domed Orthodox church, testifying to the popularity of Biarritz among the Russian aristocracy before the October Revolution (the magnificent visits of the grand dukes were not documented and remain an element of local folklore).
Biarritz beaches
The resort of Biarritz has a fairly large number of popular tourist spots, but still the main attraction, for which vacationers come here, is the ocean.
By and large, the coast around the resort cannot boast of an abundance of beaches - the rocky spurs of the Pyrenees everywhere go to the very edge of the surf, forming high coastal ledges and rocky headlands. However, at their foot there is a whole series of relatively small shores with clean sand, which can be reached from Biarritz by public transport (buses).
The most popular recreation areas among tourists are the beach areas of Milady, Marbella, Côte des Basques (there are several surf schools here), Port Vieux, Grand Plage and Miramar.
Recently, the resort town of Biarritz has turned into the largest thalassotherapy center - there are several health resorts operating here on an ongoing basis, using both the favorable natural and climatic features of the region and mineral waters brought from Brisk (20 kilometers from Biarritz).
A little further south is another suburban resort - Anglet (Angelu), stretching along the coast from Pointe Saint-Martin to La Bar. Apart from the superb shores, wider and deserted than Biarritz, there is nothing of interest here.
More photos of the attractions of the resort town of Biarritz here: Photo gallery
Biarritz is located on the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic Ocean in southwestern France. Known for its beautiful beaches, it is the perfect destination for shopping, surfing and casino lovers.
This charming town, 19 km from the Spanish border, is home to the Municipal Casino. This beautiful Art Deco building is located right on the banks of the Grand Plage and features over 200 slot machines.
Well known to the wealthy, Biarritz is not only a city with nightclubs and bars, but also a great place to come with children. The site can be selected from different hotels, apartments and bed and breakfasts in the area.
Walk along the promenade to the sound of waves crashing against the rocks before visiting the white statue of the Madonna. The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Basque Coast. Climb the stairs and enjoy the view from the observation deck.
Biarritz has some of the finest golf courses in Europe. Planes land at Biarris-Anglet-Beyon Airport.
Biarritz is one of the most popular resort towns in France and it can perhaps be called the # 1 resort southwest coast countries on Atlantic Ocean... This is primarily due to historical reasons.
In the early - mid-19th century, the French aristocracy followed the Emperor Napoleon I, then Napoleon III, who fell in love with vacationing in Biarritz with his wife Eugenia. On the rocky shores of the former Basque fishing village graceful palaces and residences, befitting the level of dignitaries, quickly sprung up. Biarritz was not ignored by the Russian nobles: many of them spent time at this resort, especially when sea bathing rapidly became fashionable in the 19th century. Aristocrats from the Russian Empire moved across France between two coasts: Cote d'Azur(which, however, did not yet bear this name) and the Atlantic. Thanks to the Russian presence in Biarritz, a beautiful Orthodox church was built in the very center of the resort, which is still open to visitors today. In some places you can find information that this "royal" resort was visited by the great dukes, but documentary evidence of this has not survived.
The infrastructure of Biarritz is still "sharpened" for the rest of wealthy people from all over Europe, while the Atlantic coast is much more intimate and quieter than, say, another "mecca" of the rich and famous - the Cote d'Azur. If you want truly French discreet chic, vast ocean spaces and breathtaking landscapes before your eyes, the flavor of two countries (France and Spain, which is literally a couple of tens of kilometers from here) - then you are in Biarritz.
Surfers also don’t need to explain what Biarritz is - the name is stamped on every skater's map as one of the best places in Europe to catch a huge wave. It is not for nothing that every year the prestigious world surfing championship Quicksilver Pro France is held in autumn 40 kilometers from Biarritz, in the town of Sort-Hausgaard (Ossegaard), where the best surfers of the world come to fight for the title.
A bit of history
Since about the 11th century, on the site of modern Biarritz, there was a small fishing settlement, whose inhabitants were mainly engaged in fishing for whales on the ocean. For centuries, this village belonged to the territories of the Basque lands (until 1790, when the Great French Revolution took place, Biarritz was part of the Basque province of Labourdan).
Today Biarritz belongs to the French department of the Pyrenees-Atlantiques, region - New Aquitaine. The city is located on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, from here it is clearly visible mountain range Pyrenees. The close connection with the historical region of the Basque Country has not been interrupted and is expressed in eclectic cuisine and preserved Basque traditions, as well as in the presence of the widespread red-green-white Basque flags, including at the official institutions of the city.
How to get to Biarritz
The nearest international airport to Biarritz is located 3 kilometers from the city and is called Aeroport Biarritz Pays Basque. It is common to the communes of Biarritz - Anglet - Bayonne. The code of this airport on aviation boards is BIQ. Another airport is located in the Spanish San Sebastian (~ 30 minutes drive from Biarritz).
. Pros: large reliable company, international taxi service for local prices; order confirmation comes to your e-mail, and the driver is waiting at the exit from the arrivals area with a sign with your surname; the fare is known in advance; payment of the full amount only upon arrival at the place.
Air France operates daily flights to Biarritz from Paris Orly Airport.
By train
On SNCF trains you can reach Biarritz from almost all cities in France (with or without transfer). Travel time by high-speed train TGV to Biarritz from Paris (Gare Montparnasse): from 5 hours 30 minutes; from Bordeaux - 2 hours; from Toulouse - 2 hours 30 minutes.
By car
On the A63 and A64 highways (exit from highway 4)
Distance to Biarritz from different cities:
Paris - 789 km; Lyon - 735 km; Marseille - 708 km; Bordeaux - 187 km; Clermont-Ferrand - 555 km; Montpellier - 534 km; Nantes - 512 km; Toulouse - 350 km; Spain (border) - 25 km; Bilbao - 160 km; Madrid - 550 km.
You can select yourself in advance and book a car for traveling in France here(instant comparison of offers, prices and conditions of the world's leading car rental companies, online booking confirmation and flexible conditions, discounts, super offers)
Where to stay
In Biarritz, both luxury resort there is no shortage of excellent accommodation facilities. On the embankment are the best historical hotels in the city, the most famous and expensive of which, of course, Hotel Hotel du Palais 5 *, which earlier, in the middle of the 19th century, was built as a residence especially for the wife of Napoleon III - Empress Eugenia.
Other palaces now owned by large hotel chains are also located next to the ocean. The closer to the beach, the higher the price. By the way, the mountainous terrain of Biarritz should be borne in mind when choosing a hotel / apartment. Where on the map it seems only a hundred or two meters to the beach, in fact it may turn out to be 20 minutes of walking from the mountain / uphill. In any case, you will have to go down steep stairs to almost all the beaches within Biarritz, which should be borne in mind when going on vacation with small children or people with health problems. This is why the real first line in this resort is so expensive. Also unpleasant surprise it can be that the ideal value for money in this resort is booked long before the start of the season by numerous Biarritz fans and surfers.
sights
I will list the main attractions of Biarritz, located along the ocean coast within the city limits.
As a starting point from which to start a walk around Biarritz, you can take the Grand Beach - the central beach of the city, surrounded by old buildings in the Belle Epoque style.
However, the problem is that the SNCF railway station in Biarritz is located far from the city center and the beach, at a distance of 4-5 kilometers, and besides, you will have to walk along confusing streets. Therefore, to get from the station on foot to the embankment, where the main attractions are concentrated, you can only take a bus (if you come to Biarritz take a walk by train, for example, from Spain). In this regard the best option movement in these places, as, indeed, on the entire Atlantic coast of France, will be a rented car. You can park your car directly next to the center in numerous underground parking lots (for a fee), where the display always indicates the number of free spaces, or simply on nearby streets (also for a fee).
So, you stand on the Grand Beach and look at the stylized "historic" striped sun awnings that have become business card"resort ...
On your right, on the promontory and ringing of the embankment, Cape Saint-Martan is a white Biarritz lighthouse, at an altitude of 73 meters above sea level (the lighthouse itself is 47 meters). This lighthouse was built in 1834. A cape with a lighthouse divides the coast into two parts - to the right of it (when looking at the ocean) endless sandy beaches of the Landes department stretch, and to the left towards the Spanish border lie rocky shores French Country Basque. You can climb 248 steps to the lighthouse and see the panorama of the city in all its beauty.
Impossible to miss the waterfront dominant luxury Hotel du Palais 5 *, which was built by order of the Emperor of France Napoleon III for his wife Eugenia. This is where the first-class restaurants and spas are located.
Right behind the Hotel du Palais is Russian Orthodox Church of the Intercession of the Virgin and St. Alexander Nevsky, built in 1892 in the Byzantine style by the French architect M. Tisnés. The church is not open every day, you need to clarify its schedule. Of particular interest is the iconostasis of this church, the icons for which were brought in due time from St. Petersburg by order of the noble Russian aristocrats - lovers of Biarritz.
Directly opposite the Grand Beach is an impressive Art Deco palace with Barriere casino inside.
If you walk from the casino to the left along the embankment (along the Boulevard General de Gaulle), slowly going up the hill, you will see rocky green promontory with a bridge leading to it - one of the favorite places of tourists both during the day and at night.
Further on the left side of you will be a graceful Catholic Church of Saint Eugenia(built at the turn of the XIX-XX centuries) in honor of the patron saint, as the name implies, the same Empress Eugenia, wife of Napoleon III.
The Church of St. Eugenia rises above the so-called old By the fishermen's port in rocky small bays (it was in this place from time immemorial that there was a fishing settlement), and today the best fish restaurants of the city "with views" are located in the port. Climbing the hill above the port or going around it through a small tunnel, you will come out to the main attraction of Biarritz, captured in millions of photographs and postcards - Rock with a statue of Our Lady, which is located on a dais on a cliff in the ocean. A long iron bridge leads to the cliff and the statue, designed by the architect bureau of Gustave Eiffel. There are also Maritime museum and oceanarium... The museum is at the same time an architectural monument in the Art Deco style and an educational object for adults and children. Inhabitants of the seas and oceans live in the aquarium, and its special pride is a large collection of sharks of different species.
If you continue along the promenade above the ocean, you will come to another beautiful building - villas Belz, built on a cliff at the end of the 19th century and remembering the heyday of Biarritz as a resort for aristocrats. At the beginning of the 20th century, in the 1920s, there were private apartments and cabarets, as well as a Russian restaurant owned by the son-in-law of the famous composer Igor Stravinsky. Today you can only look at the villa from the outside. After Villa Belza, if you go further, you will see another stunning view from the heights of the cliffs on the coast and the "Spanish coast". From here, the Pyrenees are already visible almost in full view.
Naturally, I have not listed all the sights of Biarritz and its museums, but the most important ones that are quite possible to see during a leisurely 2-3 hour walk (perhaps with a break for lunch or dinner in one of the coastal cafes or restaurants). If you are in Biarritz in the late afternoon, I advise you just before sunset to walk to the Rock of Our Lady and see the most beautiful sunset over the Bay of Biscay, just for which many photographers and artists come here.
Elena Kurylenko
Biarritz photos
Biarritz lighthouse
Hotel du Palais 5 *
In the restaurant of the Hotel du Palais you can dine à la carte: Menu Decouverte - 95 euros per person, Menu Imperatrice - 135 euros per person.
Russian Orthodox church St. Alexander Nevsky
Biarritz architecture
Church of St. Eugenia
Fishermen's port
Cliff with the Rock of Our Lady
Museum of the sea
Villa Belza
Here you can find and buy tickets to Biarritz at the lowest price (in the search form at the top of the article), as well as instantly compare prices for hotels in different booking systems and choose the best offer
September 10th, 2012
Biarritz(Biarritz), located on the Atlantic coast of the Bay of Biscay, in the French part of the Basque Country, only about 25 kilometers (by car) from the border with Spain, is a fairly well-known European balneological resort ("balneotherapy" in Latin means "treatment bathing ").
It's no joke to say that Emperor Napoleon III, Queen Amelie of Portugal, Empress Elizabeth of Austria, English kings Edward VII and George V, King Leopold II of Belgium, German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck and princes and princesses without counting ... Actress Sarah Bernhardt, pianist Arthur Rubinstein and dozens of other world stars gave chamber concerts in the villas and chateau of Biarritz. Aleksey Tolstoy, Aleksey Gorky, Anton Chekhov, Prosper Merimee and Stendhal, Theophile Gaultier and Gustave Flaubert combined rest with work ... an impressive list of names, isn't it ?!
About the name of the city. Biarritz is translated from the local (Basque) language as "Two cliffs" (bi arri). According to another version: its name comes from the previously existing Bearrids or Beiarriods "thighs" (Basque), that is, "to see", and means "a place from where you can see." And finally, the third version of the name, associated with the legend, which said that Biarritz acquired his name from the merger of two names - the beautiful Miarritz, a young resident of the village, and her lover, a fisherman from Gascony, whom the girl saved during a shipwreck. However, what was the name of the rescued Gascon, the legend is silent.
But, you must admit, in any case it sounds beautiful!))
What is known from the history of the city ... The first to populate the territory modern city, there were Vikings in 840. They settled here because it was ideal for whale fishing. At first, the Biarritz fishermen had a free life. In the Middle Ages, they were recognized as whale-catching champions. Demand gave birth to such an offer that pretty soon all the whales in the local waters were killed. The 15th century became a Black Age for the Basques - whales stopped appearing in the Bay of Biscay. The last time whales were seen here was in 1686. But the whale still flaunts on the coat of arms of the city ...
Since then Biarritz has become a provincial village. But gradually the Spanish nobles explored this place, appreciated its beauty, the convenience of bays and beaches, and began to come here on vacation. The French followed after them. The Duchess of Montijo began visiting Biarritz in 1838. She always took her daughter, Evgenia, with her. It so happened that Eugene later became the wife of the future emperor Napoleon III (nephew of that very Napoleon Bonaparte). Eugene invited her husband to places she knew well. The husband was captivated by the beauty of the local landscapes, allocated considerable sums from the royal bounty and built a luxurious palace, which he named in honor of his beloved wife - "Eugene". This event was no less important for Biarritz than the departure of whales to the Pacific Ocean. In one year, the village forgotten by God turned into a fashionable aristocratic resort of the same class as Deauville, La Baule and Nice with Saint-Tropez. Until now, the city lives with the names of Napoleon and Eugene, although a century and a half have passed since then ...
Church of Saint-Eugenie ( Eglise Sainte-Eugenie) in the neo-Gothic style is dedicated to Saint Eugenia, patroness of Empress Eugenie. It looks pretty modern. It is known that the first church dedicated to St. Eugenie was built in Biarritz back in 1856. However, it was later demolished, and in 1898 the foundation stone of the present Church of Saint-Eugene was laid. The construction was completed in 1903. The bell tower above the entrance was built later than the main structure - only in 1927, and in 1931 bells appeared in the temple.
A wide staircase leads to the entrance to the church, where the parishioners are greeted by the figure of a standard bearer. The bas-relief above the entrance depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Christ on her knees; the child stretches out his hand and, as it were, blesses the believers. The plot of the bas-relief to the right of the entrance reflects ancient occupation residents of Biarritz - whaling. The bas-relief on the right is made in the form of the city coat of arms.
Inside the church, attention is drawn to the model of a three-masted warship above the altar and wonderful stained-glass windows. Colorful paintings show the Sermon on the Mount, the Annunciation, the Entry to Jerusalem.
It should be noted that here in almost any church we went to (both Biarritz and Bayonne) there are very beautiful stained-glass windows.
For example, in the church of St. Joseph, which is opposite the City Market (Halles) on Place Sobradiel. Stained glass windows with female saints (Genevieve, Jeanne D "arc, etc.):
Notable also Imperial chapel(chapel) (La Chapelle Impériale) on the Avenue de la Marne, erected by the architect Boeswillwald in 1864 by order of Empress Eugenie in a style that is a mixture of Byzantine and Hispanic-Moorish. It was dedicated to the Black Virgin of the Notre-Mexican Virgin (Our Lady of Dame de Guadalupe). Received the status of a historical monument in 1981.
The chapel is built of bricks and consists of a single nave, preceded by a portico and completed with a semicircular apse. Inside, everything is in white doves and the initials NE (Napoleon & Eugene).
In the garden in front of the chapel there is a bust of the Empress.
View of the chapel from Avenue de la Reine Victoria (entrance from Avenue de la Marne):
It works for excursions only on Thursdays and Saturdays, from 14.30 to 18.00 - in the summer months, and in the fall and winter - only on Saturdays and until 17.00.
Next to Du Palais on the avenue de l "Imperatrice" stands Russian Orthodox Church of the Intercession of the Virgin and St. Alexander Nevsky, founded in 1879 and became a clear confirmation of the growing status of Biarritz in the eyes of the Russian Imperial House. It is known that earlier one of the halls of the palace of Empress Eugenia was temporarily assigned to the church.
This church is one of the rare Orthodox churches in the south-west of France, built by Princess Yuryevskaya, the widow of Emperor Alexander II. Here, in this church, the cousin of Emperor Nicholas II, Grand Duke Dmitry Pavlovich, and the American Audrey Emery were married.
For the first time I was in a two-story church building, the iconostasis is located on the second floor, where you go up a wide wooden staircase. For some reason, it immediately "smelled of Russia" here, or maybe it was just incense ...
The church is surrounded by a forged fence, with a wicket, on the right is the courtyard where one of the most expensive premium cars, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, is parked, which allows us to conclude that churchmen live well abroad.)))
The history of Biarritz, of course, will tell you well Biarritz Historical Museum(Musee Historique), which is located on Rue Broquelis, in the former Eglise St-Andre.
The museum tells about the stages of the history of the city's development, from a small fishing port to a developed coastal resort. The exposition of the museum includes numerous costumes, furniture, paintings, photographs and other artifacts.
We looked there too ...
I'll tell you about the coastal attractions of the city ...
Biarritz- a fashionable resort, loved by emperors and celebrities, "the royal beach and the king of all beaches." In the Middle Ages, Biarritz was a small fishing port where brave whalers lived. Legend has it that Biarritz acquired his name from the merger of two names - the beautiful Miarritz, a young resident of the village, and her lover, a fisherman from Gascony, whom the girl saved during a shipwreck. However, what was the name of the rescued Gascon, the legend is silent.
Video: Biarritz
Basic moments
Today Biarritz is a city full of bright colors and cultural life (all kinds of festivals, performances and concerts, numerous museums and exhibitions) with an eventful sports life (surfing championship, golf competitions, tennis courts and various sports centers).
But first of all, Biarritz is a prestigious thalassotherapy center with a full range of preventive and special treatment programs. The quality of the provided procedures, modern equipment, professionalism and constant care of specialists from the most famous thalassotherapy centers, combined with the beauty of ocean-bordered beaches and life-giving power maritime climate make Biarritz irresistible!
Biarritz is one of the most beautiful cities on the Atlantic coast. The mild climate of the Atlantic has attracted and continues to attract people from all over the world. Biarritz gained fame thanks to the wedding of Louis XVI to the Spanish princess Maria Teresa, which took place here in the second half of the 18th century. The heart of Biarritz is the seaside boulevard Promenades, where steep cliffs drop straight into the ocean. Of interest for tourists is the Museum of the Sea (Musee de la Mer) with numerous aquariums. The city has a Museum of Miniature Cars. There are palaces, balneological hospitals and golf courses everywhere.
The fashionable resort of Biarritz was made by Eugenia Montijo, the wife of Emperor Napoleon III. In 1854, the "Villa Eugene" was built there for her. Now on this site stands the l "Hotel du Palais. According to the tradition established since the middle of the 19th century, all the high society gathers there in the summer.
Movie stars, famous actors and painters, high society from different countries the world. It was at this time, following their taste for a hectic life, that Biarritz was born, which we now know as a fashionable resort that has retained its identity, warmly welcomes its guests, and is always open to those who love life. Victor Hugo, having arrived in Biarritz in 1843, was fascinated by the white village with bright red roofs and he predicted a great future for it.
Members of the royal family of Russia were frequent guests of Biarritz. Empress Maria Feodorovna and the morganatic widow of Alexander II, Princess Yurievskaya, came here. Russian merchants Morozov and Ryabushinsky rested here. The Russian intelligentsia was also very fond of Biarritz. Nabokov spoke of this city with delight. Chekhov wrote with surprising warmth in his letters.
Autumn and winter in Biarritz was often called the "Russian season" because of the large number of Russians who came here at that time. Evidence of the great love of Russians for Biarritz was the Church of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos and St. Alexander Nevsky, built at the end of the last century at the end of the last century at the expense of the Russians, which is still the decoration and pride of the city.
Those who can climb the lighthouse by climbing 248 steps will see the world at their feet. A variety of boutiques, restaurants, tea parlors, bars mixed with quaint villas and small palaces make Biarritz unique.
In Biarritz, there is also a large thalassotherapy institute, located 3 km from the airport and railway station. It offers various treatments based on sea water and mud therapy. These are general health courses and beauty services.
Climate
In winter, here are the most high temperatures in France.
Average temperatures:
- March - April: from + 12 ° to + 15 °,
- in May: from + 11 ° to + 18 °,
- June and October: + 17 ° to + 20 °,
- July - September: from + 16 ° to + 23 °,
- November: from + 11 ° to 15 °,
- December - January: from + 5 ° to + 12 ° C.
sights
Of the architectural landmarks, the Church of Saint-Eugenie (Eglise Sainte Eugenie) should be noted. It was built in the Byzantine style in 1864 by order of Empress Eugenia. Tourists are attracted by the Imperial Chapel and the Church of Saint-Martin, built in the XII and restored in the XVI century. The luxurious Hotel du Palais was also erected thanks to the order of the Empress - in 1854. The Imperial Chapel was built by the same Empress Eugenia - in 1864. The Orthodox cathedral attracts with its blue dome. The city casino was opened on August 10, 1901. There is also the Asian Art Museum, the Sea Museum and the Chocolate Museum. The city's indoor market is also one of the attractions.
Biarritz beaches
The wide sandy beaches of Biarritz stretch from two rocky outcrops - Cape Saint-Martin and the Ataley plateau - to the famous northern beach of Chaumbre d'Amour ("Rooms of Love"). Biarritz is a real Mecca for amateurs active rest The most popular are golf and windsurfing. Every year, international windsurfing competitions are held here, which attracts professionals and amateurs from all over the world, and the local schools of this sport are considered the best in Europe.
The Atlantic coast of France is famous for its wide sandy beaches. However, the problem of ebb and flow is felt here: in some areas the sea can go a whole kilometer from the coast.
Sports attractions
Beyond the broad sandy beaches, there are many opportunities for outdoor activities.
Surfing is king aquatic species sport has become a symbol of Biarritz and the region. However, he appeared here almost by accident - in 1956, when he was not yet known in Europe, only in Hawaii and California. The story of surfing began with Peter Wiertel, an American filmmaker who came to V Biarritz with his wife, famous actress Deborah Kerr, to film The Sun Also Rises. Then the locals saw a surfer for the first time ... In 1959, the first Waikiki Surf Club appeared in Biarritz, in 1964 the French Surfing Federation was created with headquarters in Biarritz, in the 80s surfing became a mass hobby. and in 1987 it hosted the first professional competition among the world's top 10 surfers.
Local schools are some of the best in the world. If you are a beginner and want to learn this sport, then come here. International competitions are held annually in the coastal waters of the city.
You will be happy to join the aristocratic sports entertainment - equestrian sports, golf, tennis.
Rugby is the same part of the tradition as surfing or the Basque pelota (a cross between squash and baseball: the server throws the ball into the wall using a special racket mitten, and the opponent tries to catch the ball bouncing off the wall with the same mitten). Biarritz, like the rest of southwestern France, is a rugby lover.
Golf
The history of French and European golf began here. The Biarritz Golf Club was opened in 1888. For two centuries this region has become a real Mecca for golf lovers for Europe. At a distance of 5 to 50 kilometers, about a dozen excellent clubs were built, varied in beauty, length and complexity. Golf in the vicinity of Biarritz is not so much a sport as poetry - an excellent mild climate, stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The high profile of Biarritz in the golf world is also due to the most famous European Golf Training Center. Its doors are open to everyone, regardless of age. The Hotel du Palais deeply respects this sport. A small field is located right on the territory of the hotel. Every year during international tournaments and meetings, the hotel becomes the residence of the best golfers in the world.
For both professionals and beginners, Du Palais has prepared special offers.
Golf clubs
Golf de Biarritz Le Phare (open all year round)
Golf de Biarritz - was founded in 1888 and is one of the oldest clubs in Europe. The golf club is located 500 meters from the Du Palais and the city center in a picturesque coastal strip with stunning ocean views. Thanks to this location, on hot summer days, the light ocean breeze allows even the hottest players to enjoy the club. The total length of the fields is 5,379 meters, the area is 30 hectares. The 18-hole course (6 to 3 pairs) has a variety of courses (some complicated by lowlands, water hazards and bunkers). A total of 69 pairs. On the territory of the club: driving range, putting green, golf equipment rental, restaurant, boutique.
Chiberta (3 km from Hotel Du Palais)
Golf de Angelet Chiberta 18 hole par 71 course 5,650 meters in scenic location between the ocean and the forest. Some holes are complicated by water hazards. On the territory of the club: driving range, putting green, golf equipment rental, restaurant, boutique.
La Nivelle (15 km from Hotel Du Palais)
Golf de la Nivelle 18-hole course, par 70, 5,587 meters. From here opens beautiful view to the bay and mountains. On the territory of the club: driving range, putting green, golf equipment rental, restaurant, boutique.
Golf d "Arcangues (4 km from Hotel Du Palais)
18-hole course, par 72, 5,650 meters Architect Ronald Fream, opened 1990. On the territory of the club: driving range, putting green, golf equipment rental, restaurant, boutique.
Bassussarry (3.7 miles from Hotel Du Palais)
Golf de Bassusarry - Makila Golf Club is an amazingly beautiful place. The course was designed by American golf architect Rocky Roquemore (opened in 1993) and combines park style and classic "links", that is, there are both wooded areas with century-old oak trees and open meadows. The total length of the field is 6,176 meters. 18-hole course (70 par). Some are complicated by various obstacles. Each hole offers scenic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees. The training space (admission is free) is represented by 12 artificial turf courts and 20 grass courts. The main golf professional of the club is the 1987 French professional champion Jean Lamezon. On the territory of the club: driving range, putting green, golf equipment rental, restaurant, bar, boutique.
Seignosse (30 km from the Hotel Du Palais - open all year round)
Golf Blue Green de Seignosse is a game in a huge space with unique relief contrasts (opened in 1989, architect Robbert Von Hagge). The professionals who played here note the unique beauty of this field and, at the same time, sufficient difficulty. The courses from the first hole to the 6th hole are located in an amphitheater. Further, up to 11 holes, there are oaks and ship pines of stunning beauty. 18-hole course (72 par), 6,124 meters. The club welcomes golfers of all levels for great practice on one of the most beautiful and challenging courses in Europe. On the territory of the club: driving range, putting green, golf equipment rental, restaurant, bar, boutique.
Treatment and recovery
Treatment with sea water is the main focus of local balneological centers. There is a very large thalassotherapy institute here. It covers an area of 3000 sq.m.
The choice of vacationers is represented by a swimming pool with sea water, beauty salons, jacuzzi, many procedures. They practice underwater massage, various types of showers, ultrasound treatment, algal therapy, electrotherapy, and sea aerosols. With the help of these procedures, you can quit smoking, lose weight, get rid of leg swelling and restore strength.
Shopping
You will be able to appreciate the collection of boutiques and world famous shopping houses that Biarritz is justly proud of.
Entertainment and nightlife
Entertainment
The special spirit of the resort is given by its bright cultural life- festivals, openings, world premieres, fashion shows, concerts, legendary shows. Here every day turns into a holiday - and the incomparable taste of the ocean in the air, like sparkling wine, fills the whole being with a foreboding of joy.
Sunny Biarritz will meet and exceed the most optimistic expectations of the most sophisticated and ambitious guests. Biarritz is also famous for its culinary traditions. The numerous restaurants offer exquisite French, Basque and Spanish cuisine. And, of course, how to forget the fireworks and various festivities of Biarritz, when the time passes cheerfully and carefree, tables burst with delicacies and the music does not subside!
Spain is only 30 minutes away from here, which means that here you will find bullfighting and amazing country Basque, whose culture festival is in full swing holiday season, in July. Biarritz's cultural life is rich and varied: film festivals, art exhibitions, concerts.
In the evening, numerous restaurants, casinos, bars, discos await you. For shoppers, Biarritz offers boutiques from world-renowned trade houses and fashion designers. Biarritz's many fireworks festivities all year round and the music that stays on until the morning will keep you from forgetting this beautiful city!
Night life
The resort's nightlife is lively and vibrant, aided by the city's nightclubs and casinos. The Municipal Casino contains both an informal slot machine section and an elegant hall dedicated to board games... Go to the best night club Biarritz - Le Caveau or the trendy Le Copa Cobana, where, along with the usual music, you can dance to the rhythms of salsa and other Latin American music. Cuban music and tequila await you at Le Cayo Coco, and the best way to celebrate the setting sun is to sit on the outdoor terrace and sip cocktails at Cote 57.
How to get to Biarritz
To get to Biarritz, you need 2 tickets: one international to Paris and one local from Paris to Biarritz.
From Paris you can get by plane from Orly airport (up to 8 flights daily, 1 hour 20 minutes on the way) or by high-speed train TGV from Montparnasse train station (8 times a day, 4 hours 30 minutes on the way) during the day or overnight, for the same cost.
Transfer AIRPORT or train station to Biarritz - about 30 euros.
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