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Your Home in the
Basque-Pyrenees |
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Biarritz,
at the beginning of the 19th century, was merely a small Basque fishing
harbour standing on the doorstep to Spain, just 5km from the more famous
Bayonne. It was popular as seaside getaway and was mainly frequented by
the Bayonnais who
could only reach it by donkey or mule.
But in 1838 it was suddenly discovered by the Spanish nobility and when
Princess Eugénie, the future
Empress of France, commenced her annual visits and even persuaded
Napoleon III to accompany
her, it soon became a famous resort. The Emperor was captivated by its
charms when they made their first trip together in 1854, so much so that
he had a palace built – the Villa Eugénie
, which is now the Hotel du Palais. The little fishing village suddenly
became sought after by the rich, famous and aristocratic from all over
Europe and the procession of these illustrious visitors has continued
every since: Edward VII, Sarah Bernhardt, Maurice Ravel, Stravinsky,
Jean Cocteau, Ernest Hemingway, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Frank
Sinatra, Rita Hayworth and Gary Cooper are amongst their number. |
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Climate
The Atlantic Coast generally is one of the sunniest
regions in France and Biarritz enjoys excellent weather most of the
year. In fact, in winter the geography of the Basque mountains combining
with the warm breezes from the Atlantic create a micro-climate with a
distinctly exotic, almost tropical feeling. For those fond of bathing,
Biarritz is blessed with a beautiful, sweeping sandy beach with the best
rollers for surfing in France and a water temperature reaching an
average of 20 degrees from May – September. Those keen on Winter sports
can visit the stunning slopes of the nearby Pyrenees between December
and April. |
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Architecture
Two quite different styles of architecture are to be
found side-by-side throughout the region: the traditional Basque
farmhouse, similar to the chalets of the Alpine regions in Europe, with
its red painted wood and white walls contrasts starkly with the
grandiose palaces and mansions built in the 19th century Eclectic
‘style’ and the early 20th century Art Deco manner.
The Basques are extremely proud of their homes and even some quite
humble ones often display the date of construction or even the original
owner’s name over the entrance doorway. |
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Landscape and
Scenery
The picturesque Pyrenees appeal strongly to romantics:
steep-sided valleys with rushing torrents leading in their higher
reaches to vast upland pastures populated with picture-book cows and set
off by snowy peaks mirrored in the tranquil lakes. This is an image that
inspires artists and nature lovers alike. It is hard to believe such a
contrasting landscape can be found less than two hours’ drive from
coastal Biarritz, but even more surprising to learn that you will also
find hot springs there!
For those lovers of hiking or walks in the woods, there are many
mountain paths well worth exploring. Sprinkled with little Basque
villages or shepherds’ keeps, these delightful byways recall ancient
traditions and stir the imagination. |
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Sports and
Leisure Activities
Swimming, cycling, skiing, surfing, fishing, horse riding, golf, walking
and visiting local wineries and restaurants are just some of the many
leisure activities available. Even white water rafting is available, if
you dare!
Savouring the Basque cuisine: restaurants.
Fresh sardines grilled over an open fire accompanied by the best olives
you’ll ever taste and a glass or two of
txakoli (a Basque sparkling wine) is a culinary
experience that you don’t find anywhere else. Spain is only 45 minutes
away (San Sebastian) and there you can also indulge in tapas, shaved ham
and other Spanish delicacies. But you needn’t go that far: just 20 mins
away is Bayonne; try a slice of Bayonne's finest cured ham, Brebis
(sheep’s) cheese, the confit of Bearn (sauce
Bearnaise!) or
indulge and order a garbure soup, poule au pot, the salmon de Gaves,
ttoro, piperade…you’ll find out what the word hot really means when you
savour the red peppers of Espelette! |
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Shopping and
Markets in Biarritz
Biarritz is a vibrant town and you will find a full range
of shops, markets and even several casinos! Don’t forget this is where
the élite meet and you will soon discover why it boasts the highest
real-estate values in all of France – even higher than Nice. |
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Language,
Folklore and Traditional Music
The mysterious origin of the Basque language,
Euskara, which bears no
resemblance to any other Indo-European language, is reflected in an
equally unique culture. The musical tradition is still strong and the
most famous example of this is the Fandango, which is in fact a dance
often described as both passionate and chaste. If you can catch a
performance of this strangely formal yet energetic dance, don’t miss it!
Basque songs are haunting melodies, reminiscent of the American blues,
with lyrics drawn from everyday life.
Places to visit nearby and further afield.
The unique position of Biarritz on the Spanish ‘doorstep’ enables you to
visit the capital of the Basque region, San
Sebastian, in less than 45 mins.
Other celebrated destinations in easy reach of Biarritz are:
St-Jean-de-Luz (where Louis
XIV was married), St-Jean-Pied-de-Port,
resting place for pilgrims trekking towards
Santiago de Compostella in Spain and recognizable by
their talismanic Scallop shells, Bayonne (they made bayonets there!),
Pau, Lourdes,
Bilbao, and many
fascinating lesser known places. |
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Right in the historic centre of
Biarritz, just 100 metres from the beautiful, sweeping strand you'll
find our apartment, L'Escale. Read more on the next page! |
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