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Introducing Biarritz
The stylish coastal town of Biarritz, 8km west of Bayonne, took off as a resort in the mid-19th century when Napoleon III and his Spanish-born wife, Eugénie, visited regularly. For years the darling of wealthy French families, Biarritz was dumped in the second half of the 20th century by many who preferred the fleshpots of the Mediterranean and cheaper holidays in coastal Spain. Nowadays, everyone from the jeunesse dorée (golden youth) of Paris to beach bums in camper vans are flocking back to this lovely seaside resort, renowned for its beaches and some of Europe’s best surfing.
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The town is expensive. If you’re travelling on a budget, consider staying in Bayonne and travelling through, as many French holidaymakers do. Many surfers camp or stay at one of the two excellent youth hostels in Biarritz and Anglet.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
