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Sporting & Leisure Activities In Biarritz

Casino
Grande Plage, 1 Avenue Edouard VII, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 227777
There are two large casinos, the Barrière and the Bellevue. Both are situated on the waterfront by the Grande Plage.

Surfing
Surfing in Biarritz is of a world-class standard and first appeared in 1957 when American Peter Viertel, husband of the actress Deborah Kerr, took to the waves. The town has a strong surfing culture and is known worldwide for its surfing scene and the competitions it hosts yearly, including the Quiksilver/Roxy Jam tournament. In July 2011, Biarritz also hosted the Roxy Pro event, a tournament which is part of the ASP Women's World Tour. There is also the yearly Biarritz Surf Festival which has been running since 1993 at the Côte des Basques, and is now one of the premier surf events in Europe and longboarding events in the world.

Biarritz is the historic surfing capital of Europe and is now known as one of the key surfing locations in the world. In Biarritz, the surf culture is everywhere, as proven by the brand-new Cité de l’Océan opened in June 2011 and the number of surf shops and board rental outlets.
From April to November, 10 surfing schools welcome beginners or experienced surfers alike, for a few hours of tuition or several days. In addition, prestigious surfing brands like Quiksilver, Billabong and Rip Curl are based around Biarritz.
Why not tie in a break to the beautiful Biarritz with one of the world class surfing competitions or even test your own skills on the Atlantic's waves?

Rugby
The town is home to the rugby union club, Biarritz Olympique.

Basque Pelota
Basque pelota is a very popular sport of the Basque country and with Biarritz's proximity to this region it plays a significant role in the city's sporting culture. Several local and international competitions take place in Biarritz which means it is a sport that you can watch as well as practise. With more than 20 variations of the game, it may at first seem a little overwhelming. The most popular strain of the sport is 'la Pala,' which is played against the 'fronton'. However, the most spectacular version remains 'la Cesta punta', which can be watched in the surroundings of the Jaï-Alaï stadium during the tournament of the Gant d’Or (Golden Glove) in the summer. Beginners can try it for themselves.

Golf
Le Phare, 2 Avenue Edith Cavell, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33(0)559 037180, info@golfbiarritz.com , www.golfbiarritz.com/en/
Biarritz has 10 courses within a 50km radius and its mild climate allows you to play golf all the year round. A prime golfing destination, Biarritz boasts the second oldest golf course in Europe (the oldest in the world and Europe being St. Andrews in Scotland). Created by the British in 1888, le Golf du Phare is located right in the town centre which means it is easy to access. In addition, the stunning 'Centre International d’Entraînement d’Ilbarritz,' with its 5 golf schools, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the ocean. For those intending on playing more than one course during their stay, the 'Golf Pass Biarritz Côte Basque' is a great idea and gives you access to preferential rates for four courses of the Côte Basque au Sud des Landes.

Tennis
Biarritz olympique Tennis, Stade d'Aguilera, Rue Cino del Duca, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 016474, www.tennis-biarritz-bo.com . Email: tennis@biarritzolympique.fr  
Biarritz Olympique Tennis features 14 public courts, including 4 indoor and 3 flood-lit courts. It is the home of competitions such as l’Open GDF Suez de Biarritz, an international female tournament rated among the top five events of this type in France. Ideally scheduled after Wimbledon and a showcase for talent, the Open de Biarritz attracts a line-up of top-quality players.

Horse Riding
Club Hippique de Biarritz, Allée Gabrielle Dorziat, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 235233. www.biarritzcheval.com . Email: contact@biarritzcheval.com
The Club Hippique in Biarritz, situated next to the ocean, will help you discover, enjoy and perfect your equestrian activities at both beginner and competitive levels. The Club Hippique is host to a number of events, such as the Jumping de Biarritz, featuring show-jumping at its highest level. Every July, for those keen on sporting spectacle, the Fleurs de Biarritz racecourse features some thirteen night-time race meetings, including the top event, the Grand Prix de la Ville de Biarritz.

Swimming Pool
Boulevard du Général de Gaulle, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 225252
If the Atlantic Ocean and sandy beaches are not your thing but you still enjoy a dip then why not head to the swimming pool. Facing the sea on the Grande Plage (so it almost feels like you are outside), Biarritz’s indoor municipal swimming pool contains not only a main heated seawater pool, but also a sauna, a hammam and a Jacuzzi, together with a children’s pool.
Open:
During School Term: Monday: 12:00 - 18:30; Tuesday: 11:45 - 14:00, 16:30 - 21:00; Wednesday: 10:00 - 17:00; Thursday: 11:30 - 14:00, 16:30 - 19:00; Friday: 11:30 - 14:00, 16:30 - 21:00; Saturday: 10:00 - 12:30, 14:30 - 18:30; Sunday: 09:00 - 12:30.
During School Holidays: Monday: 12:00 - 18:30; Tuesday: 10:00 - 21:00; Wednesday: 10:00 - 19:00; Thursday: 10:00 - 19:00; Friday: 10:00 - 21:00; Saturday: 10:00 - 12:30, 14:30 - 18:30; Sunday: 09:00 - 12:30.

Thalassotherapy
Biarritz is without doubt a destination for relaxation and fitness and is internationally famous for its thalassotherapy, both historically and in terms of expertise. Louison Bobet, the famous French Tour de France champion created this concept in the seventies after he became badly injured in a car crash. He was convinced of the benefits which a maritime climate and sea water brought to the human body - in thalassotherapy, trace elements of magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium, and iodide found in seawater are believed to be absorbed through the skin. The centre he created still exists in Biarritz, where a long tradition of marine therapy contributes to the success of the two landmark which continue to meet an ever-growing demand. Both of Biarritz's premier thalassotherapy centres offer customised treatments and therapies to meet each client's needs, including seaweed body wrap, body sculpting, relaxation, massages, body scrubbing, Balneotherapy, beauty treatments, post-surgery therapy, post-natal care and even treatments to combat smoking and stress.

Thalassa Biarritz, 13 Rue Louison Bobet, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33(0)559 413000. www.thalassa.com/en/destination-thalasso/vacation-treatments-thalasso-spa-seawater-biarritz-13615.html

Thalmar, 80 Rue de Madrid, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33(0)559 417543. www.biarritz-thalasso.com/en/thalasso/thalmar-biarritz

Walking
Biarritz offers the walker a stunning variety of natural landscapes and its coastline possesses a bounty of sights and scenes just waiting to be discovered. From the Pointe Saint-Martin Lighthouse to the Côte des Basques via the Grande-Plage and the Rocher de la Vierge, the options open to walkers and ramblers are endless - each walk offers its own unique visual rewards. Along the entire sea front are benches, allowing young and old alike to pause for a rest.

Le Petit Train de Biarritz
39 Avenue de la Marne, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)607 971635. Web: petit-train-biarritz.fr. Email: info@petit-train-biarritz.fr
Not to be missed is a tour around Biarritz aboard the famous Petit Train which links different museums such as the new Cité de l’Océan et du Surf along with other prominent sights in the city. Each circuit lasts approx. 30 mins and departures are also every 30mins. The train runs from April to October and departs from the Grande Plage Ouest (Esplanade du Casino) and Rocher de la Vierge.
Prices: Adult/€5.50; Children (3-12 years)/€4; Children under 3 years/Free
Open: Off season: 14:30 - 16:00; June & September: 10:00 - 19:00; July & August: 09:30 - 23:00

Sporting & Leisure Activities Nearby

Quad Biking
Quad é Nature, ZI de Jalday 2, 161 Rue Belharra, 64500, Saint Jean de Luz. Tel: +33(0)559 261149/+33(0)610 795774. Email: quadenature@gmail.com . www.quadenature.com
Another unique and fun way to get a different perspective of the Basque Country in and around Saint Jean de Luz is to head out on a quad bike. Groups and individuals of all abilities can discover this varied terrain that stretches from the mountains to the sea shore. There are a wide range of options from 1 to 2 hours, to half and full day sessions or even 2 whole days of exploring by quad! Anyone who has a motorcycle or car license can drive the quad and prices start from as little as €35. If you don't have a license then you can hop on the back of someone who does as there is space on board for 2! All the excursions are led by professional certified guides who are trained in first aid. It certainly is a quick and fun way to discover the beautiful Basque countryside with stunning views of La Rhûne - the mythical Basque mountain - and the amazing plateaus with the ocean for a backdrop!
Availabiltiy and Prices: www.quadenature.com/tarifs-randonnees-quad-pays-basque/

Paintballing
Parc d’Aventures & Paintball Oihana, Route de la Glacière, 64122, Urrugne. Tel: +33(0)603 405231. www.oihana-64.com . Email: info@oihana-64.com
Away on holiday with a bunch of friends? Bored of the beach already? Why not take to the woods for some intensely satisfying paintball action? You'll be given protective masks and a paintball launcher that propels the .68 calibre capsules of biodegradable, non-toxic paint through the air in the direction of your enemy! With and area of over 1000m2, it's a game of strategy and skill lying somewhere between dodge ball and chess! Kids from the age of 7 can play using a slightly different format to that of the adults only game. Children from the age of 12 can join in with the adults.
Price and availability: www.oihana-64.com/rates-and-schedules/?lang=en

Culture & Heritage In Biarritz

Biarritz Ocean (Ocean World)
Plateau Atalaye, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 227540. www.biarritzocean.fr
Discover the ocean mysteries with Biarritz Océan. In June 2011, Biarritz opened an entirely new concept: ‘Biarritz Océan’, which includes the extension of the Musée de la Mer (Sea Museum) and the opening of the Cité de l’Océan (Ocean World). The objective is to introduce you to the reality and complexity of the Ocean, increase public awareness of the fragility and the importance of the Ocean and its ecosystem, and to position Biarritz in this fight for the future. Genuine highly interactive place, with a mix of fun, learning and science, the Cité de l’Océan is completely dedicated to this common good not well known yet but currently threatened. Special effects, 3D animations and interactive exhibitions are gathered for an unforgettable visit, in the very heart of the ocean.

Musée de la Mer
Plateau Atalaye, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 227540. www.museedelamer.com
In a beautiful Art Deco monument on the seafront you will discover a magnificent living spectacle spread across nearly fifty aquariums containing thousands of species. Not to be missed: the Seals’ Basin and the Sharks’ Cave - for an unexpected face to face. Specialising in the fauna and flora of the Bay of Biscay, the museum presents more than 150 species of fish and invertebrates. You can learn about the Gulf Stream, from the Bay of Biscay up to the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific and enjoy giant tanks housing sharks, rays, barracudas and tropical fish… There is also a touch tank that will delight the senses of those curious enough to give it a try! Be sure to check out the Caribbean lagoon and the coral reef, and don’t miss the show at seal feeding time – everyday at 10:30am and 17:00.

Musée Asiatica
1 Rue Guy Petit, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 227878. www.museeasiatica.com
The Asiatica Museum houses a significant collection of Asian art primarily from India, Nepal, Tibet, and China. The number and quality of the unique artworks of Musée Asiatica (Asiatica Museum), makes it one of the principal five European museums for Asiatic Arts. This stunning and impressive collection consists of more than a thousand pieces, from prehistory to the present day, and provides an amazing look into the artisan past of these countries, rivalling the Asiatic museums of Paris, Berlin and Amsterdam. This informative and insightful museum allows the visitor to learn about the pieces and the processes along with the history and archaeology of countries concerned. It also boasts a library of over 2000 books which is available to visitors to read by appointment. In addition to all this, the Asiatica Museum also offers a tea room offering hot drinks, cold drinks and biscuits for 2 euros. The entry is free for Museum's temporary exhibitions.
Open: Every day from 14:00 - 19:00. In July-August and during other school holidays: from 10:30 - 18:30.

The Lighthouse
Esplanade Elisabeth II, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 223710.
The lighthouse at Biarritz was built in 1834 and stands 73 meters above sea level overlooking Cape Hainsart (so called because of the oak trees which surrounded it in the past, now replaced by tamarisks). The lighthouse marks the boundary between the sandy Landes coast and the rocky coast of the Basque Country. After climbing all of its 248 steps to reach the top, you will be rewarded with an exceptional panoramic view of Biarritz and the Basque hinterland! If you still have the strength in your legs, take a walk along the headland to the Côte des Basque beach with its dramatic offshore rocks of the Basta, the Madonna, and the Atalaye Plateau. There is also a delightful walk along to the Port des Pêcheurs; the old fishing village now referred to as the Port Vieux or Old Port. Perfect for a sunset stroll, it takes you from the beach around the old harbour and along its breakwater which protects its active fishing fleet and the intimate seafood restaurants!
Open: Daily 09:00 - 18:00

Planète Musée du Chocolat (Chocolate Museum)
14 Avenue Beaurivage, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 232772. www.planetemuseeduchocolat.com . Email: info@planetemuseeduchocolat.com
The history of the Basque country and chocolate are tightly related. To understand what binds them together, the “Planète Musée du chocolat” of Biarritz is worth a visit. And the visit has the perfect start for chocolate lovers with a welcome tasting of chocolate drops! As well as housing antique chocolate manufacturing objects, there is also an artistic exhibition on the site. You can discover the history, the heritage and the transformation of the cocoa bean into a bar of chocolate in a short projection screening. Be sure to check out the shop where you can buy such delights as chocolate postcards and oversized bars! For the gourmands among you, the museum offers creative workshops for children and adults as well as pastry classes. Our personal favourite is the wine and chocolate tasting. The visit lasts just over 45 minutes- just make sure you have a light breakfast!
Price: Adult 6.50€, Under 4 Free, Students/Children from 4 years old/under 25s/Reduced Mobility 5€
Open: please check the website www.planetemuseeduchocolat.com/infos-pratiques
 
Historical Museum
Eglise St Andrews, Rue Broquedis, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 248628. Web: musee-historique-biarritz.fr
Since 1986, in this original Anglican Church, the Historical Museum Friends Association of Biarritz has compiled a vast collection of very varied artifacts. These document, objects and works of art all combine to tell the history of Biarritz, from its humble beginnings as a small fishing port to the fashionable resort which became the “Kings’ Beach”. This is a cultural visit you must make to truly know Biarritz! The association also provides guided cultural tours of Biarritz every third Saturday of the month, except in high season when the tour is upon reservation only.

The Imperial Chapel
Reine Victoria Ave, 64200, Biarritz. Tel: +33 (0)559 223710
The Imperial Chapel was built in 1864 at the request of Empress Eugenia and has an intricately decorated roof interior and elegant wall tiling. This charming construction of Roman-Byzantine and Hispanic-Moorish style has been dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe (also known as Our Lady of Guadalupe), the Mexican black virgin. It was listed as historical monument in 1981. The guided tour of the chapel will take you back in time where you will learn all about Biarritz under the Second Empire.

The Russian Orthodox Church
8, Avenue de l’Impératrice, 64200, Biarritz.
The church was constructed in the 19th century, between 1890 and 1892, for the visiting Russian aristocrats who frequented Biarritz a lot back then. It is dedicated to the Protection of the Holy Virgin and Saint Alexander Nevsky and has a stunning, famous blue dome. The church was built by the architect Tisnés from Biarritz in a Byzantine style and is decorated with icons from St Petersburg.

Eglise St-Martin
Constructed in the 12th century, and restored in the middle of the 16th century, St Martin’s Church was the first church to be built in the city. It boasts a gothic choir and a low-set nave along with a beautiful and fames organ of more recent times. The grey stone Eglise St-Martin is one of the few vestiges of the port's early boom years when whaling commanded the commercial center. This remains a working church with a local congregation. It makes for a good stroll between the pews!

Culture & Heritage Nearby

The town of Biarritz makes a great base for exploring the Basque coast and its surrounding countryside, towns and villages where you will find a rich cultural heritage. Biarritz is also perfectly placed for a hop across the border to check out the cultural delights of San Sebastian, Bilbao and Hondarribia.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is the capital of the Basque province of Lower Navarre. It is built on the historic road between France and Spain in the Pyrenees and is also one of the most important sites on the 'Saint-Jacques de Compostela' before crossing the mountains. The city is divided by the river Nive, which is spanned by an old stone bridge, 'Pont Neuf' with its pink sandstone tower. The beautiful main street which climbs to the Citadel is lined with pretty houses that date back to the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries and there is a market every Monday.

Cambo les Bains
The Labourdine spa town of Cambo les Bains is full of charm; from the narrow streets and alleyways, the hanging laundry and the Roman Bridge to its brightly whitewashed houses with their blood red shutters. A visit to the quintessentially Basque Villa Arnaga with its néo-basque architecture and 15 acres of French and English styled gardens, carefully cultivated with pavilions, ponds and a long canal, is a must.

Espelette
Espelette is an attractive village that has preserve its authenticity with its beautiful, traditional Labourd-style houses and the recently restored castle. The protected sixteenth century church of Saint-Etienne, has a Baroque altarpiece and its graveyard has many traditional Basque discoid tombstones. One point of interest is the grave of local woman, Agnès Souret. Souret was the first woman ever to be chosen as Miss France in 1920. She died in Argentina aged 26 in 1928 and her body was repatriated to Espelette by her mother who sold most of her possessions to provide a resting place for her daughter. Espelette is also famous for the chili pepper of the same name that is cultivated here and the annual chili festival that is held to celebrate it in October. Be sure to check for bright red chillies drying in the sun as they hang from the buildings in the town.

Bayonne
Bayonne is known for its famous Bayonne ham and chocolate but also has a rich historical heritage. Bayonne is exceptionally proud of its label, 'City of Art and History,' and has many historical sights of interest such as the Old Castle, the Cathedral of Saint Mary, the Cloister and the Gothic cellars. It is the economic, administrative and cultural capital of the region.

Anglet
Famed for its many long and sandy beaches and intimate coves, it is a great place to explore the nature of the Basque country. Relax on the quiet beach of 'La Barre' with the sound of the Atlantic waves as your soundtrack. Bike trails, walking trails, and fitness trails offer a plethora of ways to oxygenate the heart and lungs in the Pignada and Lazaretto forests. Finally, do not forget the beautiful ecological park of Izadia.

Saint Jean de Luz
Saint Jean de Luz has been called the Royal City since 1660 when the wedding of Louis XIV and the Infanta Maria Teresa Rafaela of Spain took place. The pretty port town of Saint Jean de Luz also has a rich cultural and historical past. The town features a large number of residences built in the 17th and 18th centuries along the Quai de L'Infante, Rue Mazarin, Rue Gambetta and at the Place Louis XIV. These buildings are a testament to the families, ship-owners and Basque merchants from this period. Perhaps the most famous of all these residences is the 'Maison Joanoenea.'

Ciboure
The pretty town of Ciboure lies across the harbour of Saint Jean de Luz on the other side of the Nivelle River and is famed for its traditional Basque style buildings. The sixteenth century, Église Saint-Vincent de Ciboure, has an octagonal tower, Basque galleries and a Baroque altarpiece. Adjacent to Ciboure is the Fort of Socoa, a 15th-century fortress built by Louis XIII. Be sure to visit the Maison Ravel, the chapel and tower of Bordagain and the convent and cloisters of Recollets.

Urrugne
Urrugne is a quiet Basque village which has managed to preserve its authenticity and traditions. During the 17th century, Urrugne was situated on the shortest route from Paris to Madrid that took 13 days by horse and coach from the French capital. Due to its closeness to Spain, the village was subject to confrontations in the many wars between the two countries until the Treaty of the Pyrenees was signed. Built in 1314, the Château d’Urtubie has witnessed all these events and more over its six centuries. Personalities from all periods have stayed there: King Louis XI, Louis XIV, Marshal Soult and Wellington! A great starting point for many walks in the surrounding area, be sure to visit the Church of St. Vincent, Notre Dame de Sokorri and the Chapelle du Mont Calvaire.

Zugarramurdi
The typical Spanish village of Zugarramurdi Urdax became infamous as the setting of alleged occult activity featured in the Basque witch trials held in Logroño in the 17th century. Witches were believed to have inhabited the old houses of the village that can be identified today by their framing red stones and colourful flower displays. The village is home to the Basque Witch Museum and the Cuevas de las Brujas (Witch Caves). Every year, spectacular fires are lit in the caves in celebration of the ‘day of the witch’ on the summer solstice.

Urdazubi
Urdazubi is in the same province as Zugarramurdi which is just over 4km away. There is a walking trail that connects the two identify and follow using the blue horse symbol. Urdazubi maintains a medieval character, perfectly blending past and present. The pretty village hides a number of attractions, from medieval bridges to majestic country houses and Romanesque churches such as that of San Salvador. However, the village is perhaps most famous for its prehistoric caves. The Ikaburu Caves are located below the green meadows of the slopes of north-western Navarre and were created some 14000 years ago due to river erosion - the Urtxuma River runs through the caves. The caves galleries provide stunning examples of stalactites and stalagmites and during their existence, they have been used by both soldiers and smugglers!

Hondarribia
Just a short distance from Biarritz, via the shuttle boat from Hendaye, the fishing village of Hondarribia is awash with colour with its bright Basque houses and their flowery balconies. Perched on a hillside, the old town is surrounded by impressive castle walls dating back to the 16th century and built for Charles V. It makes for a pleasant day trip and for those that decide to stay a little longer, you should try its famous tapas and its nightlife! Be sure to visit the gothic-style Parish Church of Santa Maria de La Asuncion y del Manzano with its added Renaissance and Baroque influenced architecture and rare picture of the Trinity which is considered to be one of only a few in the whole of Europe.

San Sebastian
Surrounded by beautiful landscapes and famous beaches, the lively city of San Sebastian is just a 45 minute drive from Biarritz. For those that don't fancy the prospect of driving or if you would like to enjoy some Spanish wine with your meal, it is possible to go to San Sebastian by train from Hendaye. In the old town, you will find charming period houses with French architectural influences and also a strong, traditional Basque culture. Be sure to search out the Cathedral del buen pastor Artzain-ona and the Church of Santa Maria del Coro. The old town is a great place to immerse yourself in history and culture and it is also a fantastic place to stop for a bite to eat in one of the restaurants serving traditional Basque cuisine. Today the city of San Sebastian is a major cultural center with a host of museums including the Science Museum and the Museum Chillida-Leku.

Bilbao
Situated on the river Nervion in the north of Spain, Bilbao is probably most famous for its Frank O. Gehry designed Guggenheim Museum. This former dirty and grey industrial city is now a modern and dynamic city of culture which competes with the major European capitals. It is worth a visit if only to see the stunning metallic and glass structure of the Guggenheim. This workers town has a strong and proud heart and a rich history, its skyline dominated by the huge, gothic Cathedral of Santiago and the Basilica Begona.

Natural Wonders & Wildlife Nearby