France is always going to be one of my top Winter and Summer destinations, the Alps a seasonal haven and the South of France well, there is nothing better than being close to a harbour or hearing the waves lap at the shore. This year, one of my favourite destinations has to be Biarritz located in the Basque country in the west of France, a well preserved area, full of culture and tradition.
Here are my top 5 reasons why the Basque country is an ideal destination.
Surfing
Biarritz is a surfers paradise (infact the surfing capital of Europe), since 1957 the American Peter Viertel, married to the actress Deborah Kerr surfed its wave, it become a real go to destination. The Roxy Pro competition is held every July, women long board competition. From April to November, 10 schools can train you to make the most of the Biarritz waves!
Golf
Professional or amateur, a handicap of 100 or -2, all golfers will be satisfied on the 10 courses behold to Biarritz. Visit the second oldest golf course, le golf Biarritz le Phare, created in 1888, and try its training centre, the Centre International dentrainement and its 5 golf schools.
Health and wellness
Visit two of the acclaimed thermal spas in Biarritz, Thalassa Biarritz which literally means sea healing Thalassotherapy sees guests being squirted with high pressure hoses, pummelled, massaged and smeared in mud and seaweed. Its all in the name of looking good! The second Thermes Marins uses the same techniques, dating back to the 18th century, it continues to serve as an antidote to the 21st century ailments such as stress and insomnia.
Fine dining
My favourite bit to any holiday, specking out the best restaurants in the area and preparing myself to experience a gourmet explosion. Food is everywhere in the Basque country, serving anything from Pintxos (Basque tapas) to Gazpacho tuna and the freshest seafood and of course, all washed down with the local cider and digestifs of sloe based patxaran.
Le Grand Stroll
Biarritz has one of the most attractive seaside coastlines; Le Grand Stroll is one of the most beautiful with tamarisks and hydrangeas. Starting at the lighthouse on the high headland and passes France’s second-oldest golf course (mentioned above) and the Russian Orthodox Church, built for visiting 19th Century nobility, with its glorious blue dome. The famous old promenade along the Grande Plage leads past the Casino Barriere, with a fine art deco ceiling and floor, the peaceful old square Place Ste-Eugenie and the Museum of the Sea, with its handsome facade and shark-feeding sessions. On to Fishermen’s Port, built by Emperor Napoleon, and the Rock of the Virgin. The statue of Madonna, set up to keep local fishermen safe, is over a bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, of tower fame.
Whether you have interest in surf, golf or enjoying the therapeutically effects of the sea in its stunning spas, the Basque country is an ideal destination.
