Exploring Biarritz: a family-friendly getaway in the southwest of France
If you're looking for a family-friendly escape in the south of France, away from the chaos of the Mediterranean, Biarritz ticks all the boxes. With its coastal charm, situated in France’s Basque Country, it has become our go-to spot for family getaways.
Getting there
We took the TGV (France’s high-speed train) from Paris’ Montparnasse train station to Biarritz, a little over a four-hour journey. Opting for first-class seats (booked in advance, the price is reasonable) gave us extra space, which is great for traveling with kids and gear. It’s not the opulence of the Eurostar, but the extra space is a blessing when traveling with strollers, diaper bags, toys, and books in tow.
When traveling by train, we make it a habit to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure, aiming for 45 minutes ideally. This gives us time for bathroom breaks, grabbing coffee, or handling unexpected tantrums.
High-speed trains often arrive 20 minutes early at the original departure destination. Check the departure boards for your train number and platform, focusing on the final destination. For example, when heading to Biarritz, the board might display the train number and Hendaye, not Biarritz. It may seem obvious, but it's an easy detail to miss, as I learned during my first solo European trip in 2012.
Where we stayed
Situated along the coastline, just next to the Grande Plage, we stayed at Le Sofitel Miramar, a family-friendly hotel with beach access and indoor and outdoor pools. They always make us feel welcome, and the service is impeccable.
View from our room’s balcony at Le Sofitel Miramar
Where we ate
Bali Bowls is my absolute favorite for breakfast, brunch or afternoon snack. They’ve two locations in the city. Their acai bowl and matcha latte are perfection.
Bali Bowls Biarritz
Bali Bowls’ Belharra acai bowl and oat milk matche latte
For lunch or dinner, we love La Pizzeria des Arcades for wood-fired pizzas. Make a reservation or arrive early. They’re family-friendly with stroller “parking,” accommodating waiters, and the cutest rabbit-shaped bambino pizzas.
Bambino pizza at La Pizzeria des Arcades
Cool wall at La Pizzeria des Arcades
Continuing with the Italian theme, Ragazzi da Peppone is another favorite of ours. During our last visit, instead of dining in, we opted to order directly from the hotel using Uber Eats and enjoyed our meal while watching the sunset from the comfort of our room's balcony.
We also enjoy Palmito because of its varied menu and chill atmosphere. It’s a food market offering different cuisines from mexicain to jamaicain to crepes and pancakes.
Margarita at Palmito
Dessert usually means a stop at Maison Dézamy for ice cream. The line can be long but it moves quickly.
Ice cream at Maison Dézamy
Drinks
Indulging in a drink on the terrace of Hotel du Palais Biarritz or Eden Rock Café is a truly memorable experience. Hotel du Palais is a palace hotel originally commissioned by Napoleon III for his wife, Eugenie. Meanwhile, Eden Rock Café is nestled right into the rock formations by the water and offers breathtaking ocean views.
Activities
When we're not enjoying the beach or pool, we love exploring the city and taking a stroll to the iconic Rock of the Virgin Mary, also known as Rocher de la Vierge. Not far from there, you'll find an aquarium that's definitely worth a visit.
The boys also love the carousel next to the Grande Plage.
Rock of the Virgin Mary
Carousel next to the Grande Plage
Biarritz a great spot for a family getaway, family vaycay, or sister-cation. If you find yourself in Basque Country, it’s a must visit.