Biarritx - Chic with an Air of Glamour and Royal Connections
Biarritz is as smart as it gets. A fishing village adopted by the Empress Euguenie in the 19th Century, it became the resort of kings and the playground of the fashionably rich, including Edward VII and later the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.In 1854 Napoleon III built for Eugenie a huge villa in the shape of an E which is now the Hotel Grande Palais overlooking the Grande Plage.
Biarritz means two rocks in the Basque language, and this famous seaside resort is named after the two rocks which stand either side of the bay and which encompass two famous beaches - La Reine des Plages (Queen's) and la Plage du Roi (King's)
Biarritz is a chic seaside resort and active fishing port. In summer it bustles with holiday-makers enjoying the ocean views and 'le shopping' courtesy of the biggest brand names in the world. It is teaming with elegant cafes and restaurants to suit all tastes (gourmet or fast food). In winter it is a quiet and sunny town where many elderly well-to-do people and Gascony fishermen enjoy their retirement.