48 hours to discover Biarritz: between beaches and nature walks

The city's landmark, the Biarritz lighthouse is the ideal starting point for an exceptional panoramic view of the city and the Grande Plage. Admittedly, it's a tough climb with 248 steps! But the view is well worth the effort, so it would be a shame to miss out.

The walk then continues for a good hour along the coast to the Miramar beach, the favourite beach of the Biarrots (the inhabitants of Biarritz!). Just a few metres away is the luxurious Hôtel du Palais, built by Napoleon III in honour of his wife.

Located right in the city centre, its big sister, the Grande Plage de Biarritz, is, as its name suggests, the largest beach. Nearby is the famous Art-Deco Casino, which hosts shows and concerts throughout the year.

Just a 5-minute walk from the Casino, the Port des Pêcheurs is the perfect place for a picturesque lunch. A firm favourite with many travellers, you can watch the sailors going about their business and the seagulls on the lookout to steal a few fish! A change of scenery is guaranteed with the many crampottes, small fishermen's huts with colourful shutters typical of Biarritz.

A short path along the coast leads to the Plateau de l'Atalaye. If the sea isn't too rough and you're not afraid of heights, you can climb up to the plateau for a 360° view of the town.

The Rocher de la Vierge is a must-see when visiting Biarritz. The statue stands atop a rock accessible via a metal footbridge forged by the famous Gustave Eiffel. It is also a meeting place for painters looking for inspiration for their new canvases.

To round off this day at sea and head for the Côte des Basques, the famous surfing spot, you'll pass by Biarritz's smallest beach, Plage du Port Vieux. On the way, you'll catch a glimpse of the famous Villa Belza, which is said to conceal many secrets...

Biarritz is best known for its beaches, but did you know that the town has two lakes in the middle of nature?

The Chemin des Lacs is a signposted and recently rehabilitated trail around Lac Marion and Lac Mouriscot, offering one 8km loop and two 4km loops (if you're only visiting one park). Alternating paths and roads, this hike is easy to access and offers a breath of fresh air away from the sun and tourists.

The full 8km loop starts at Plage Milady, up the valley of the Ruisseau Barchalont to Lac Marion. Just 2km from the ocean, the lake and its 20-hectare park are teeming with different plant and aquatic species. A 3,000 m2 play area with a zip line has been laid out for children's enjoyment!

The bucolic stroll continues at Lac Mouriscot and its small pontoons. Situated between Bidart and Biarritz, it's the perfect spot for a picnic in the shade while watching mallards, kingfishers and herons. There are plenty of places to take a stroll: the Lamoulie stream, the pine forest, the wash-house and even the equestrian centre, home to the Biarritz equestrian club.

To round off your stay in style, there's nothing better than a visit to Les Halles de Biarritz, where you can sample regional specialities from the land and the sea.