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Europe France Biarritz Do & See Plateau de l'Atalaye

Overview

Plateau de l'Atalaye

The guide was updated: 2024-02-12

The views of the Atlantic waves crashing over the cliffs below are dramatic. This is where the whale watchers would have been on the lookout, at a small building called cloche d'Alarme. A statue of the Virgin Mary, raised in 1865, perches on one of the cliffs that can be reached via a bridge. Nearby is also the quaint Place Sainte-Eugénie and the old fishing port Port des Pêcheurs. Take a casual walk around and do not forget to pass the park Esplanade de la Vierge or the local aquarium close by.

Useful Information

Address: Place Sainte-Eugénie, Biarritz

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Hôtel du Palais

Hôtel du Palais

Eugénie, the wife of Napoleon III, created Hôtel du Palais at the end of the 19th century, and it still towers over the northern end of Grand Plage. A visit is well worth the time. In fact, it is essentially a must-see – the interiors and the atmosphere are reminiscent of a bygone era.

Plateau de l'Atalaye

Plateau de l'Atalaye

The views of the Atlantic waves crashing over the cliffs below are dramatic. This is where the whale watchers would have been on the lookout, at a small building called cloche d'Alarme. A statue of the Virgin Mary, raised in 1865, perches on one of the cliffs that can be reached via a bridge. Nearby is also the quaint Place Sainte-Eugénie and the old fishing port Port des Pêcheurs. Take a casual walk around and do not forget to pass the park Esplanade de la Vierge or the local aquarium close by.

Russian Orthodox Church

Russian Orthodox Church

The Russian orthodox church of Alexander Nevsky may seem a bit out of place, but just before the Russian revolution in 1917, many aristocrats arrived here and bought that piece of land where they built up the church.

Biarritz Aquarium

Biarritz Aquarium

The Biarritz Aquarium, also known as le Musée de la Mer, is a great place to take your family for an impressive marine display. The diverse sea life is portrayed in an elegant and entertaining manner. Eagle rays measuring 90cm in width share their tank with about 30 sharks, barracudas, seals, and many more.

City of the Ocean

City of the Ocean

The museum Cité de l’Océan et du Surf can answer questions like: where does the water in the oceans come from? Did Atlantis really exist? Would we be here if the ocean never existed? More than one of your senses will be engaged in the fun journey toward learning about the depths of the ocean. 3D animations and interactive devices will guide you along your way.

The Basque Coast

The Basque Coast

It is hard to say what is the coast's biggest attraction, the great surfing spots or the amazing views. Whichever is your cup of tea, do not miss this excellent waterside area.

Virgin on the Rock

Virgin on the Rock

Some might say that this is just a rock, but there is a reason why the Virgin on the Rock has a star in the Michelin Guide travel section. It was Napoleon III's idea to place The Virgin Mary statue in this beautiful location, which is surrounded by many other great lookout points.

Biarritz Lighthouse

Biarritz Lighthouse

The lighthouse of Biarritz, le Phare de Biarritz, is another location where you can enjoy views of the city. Climb the small hill and, if you dare, take a look into the lighthouse on top. Also, take a look around and experience that great atmosphere.

Surfing

Surfing

No matter if this is your first time on a surfboard or if you're already a pro, Lagoondy Surfschool can offer you valuable tips on how to get started and on how to improve your technique.

Saint-Martin Church

Saint-Martin Church

The Saint-Martin Church is the oldest church in Biarritz. Built in the 1100s, it has been listed by historical monuments since 1931. Come in and enjoy the serenity.

Casino Barrière

Casino Barrière

The Casino Barrière is located just at the waterfront, so it allows for some amazing views of the ocean. It does not only offer a good time for those who like classic table games like Blackjack, Roulette, and Poker, but you can also come here and relax in their heated sea-water pool with an ocean view.

Port des Peuchers

Port des Peuchers

This small fishing port is a quiet and romantic place to rest on a busy day. The area is perfect for hiking and gives you a great view in the evening. Several small restaurants and cafés will await you with local delights, and why not enjoy a glass of wine while watching the sunset?

Biarritz Sports Nature

Biarritz Sports Nature

Get some fresh air and enjoy the Basque landscape. The Takamaka team at Sports Nature equips you with everything you need for an exciting day out: bikes, surfboards, or kayaks can be borrowed, and you can even book a canyoning or sky-diving trip! The experienced team helps you with hiking maps and advice for day routes.

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