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Beach · Biarritz, Nova Aquitânia
Grande Plage
The central beach of Biarritz, a wide stretch of sand in front of the centre, with the Hôtel du Palais, the former summer residence of Empress Eugénie, at one end and the rochedo do Bellevue at the other.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Grande Plage
The Grande Plage is the beach that made Biarritz a seaside resort. It lies in front of the town centre, between the Hôtel du Palais to the north and the rochedo do Bellevue to the south, with a promenade along its entire length. In summer it is the busiest beach in town, with lifeguards, surf schools and the traditional striped huts.
At the northern tip, the brick-and-stone building of the Hôtel du Palais is the former Villa Eugénie, built between 1854 and 1855 for Empress Eugénie, who was born in Spain and wanted to spend the summer near her homeland. The house became a hotel and casino in 1881, took its current name in 1893 and was rebuilt and enlarged after a fire in 1903. The facades and roofs are protected as a historic monument, and the building, which is largely owned by the town council, continues to operate as a hotel.
Behind the beach, near the Hôtel du Palais, are the Russian Orthodox church with its blue dome, built for the Russian community that used to visit Biarritz, and the Chapelle Impériale, commissioned by the Empress. Further north, Miramar beach continues up to the lighthouse. The waves at the Grande Plage vary with the tide, and on rough-sea days bathing is controlled by the flags.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours walking along the promenade; half a day including the beach.
Best time
June to September for swimming, with lifeguards on duty. Early in the morning the sand is empty; in the late afternoon the promenade fills up. Outside summer, the walk is worthwhile on rough-sea days to watch the waves.
How to get there
It is in front of the centre of Biarritz, a few minutes' walk from the praça Clemenceau. From the lighthouse, walk down along the promenade passing Miramar beach.
Tip
Swim only in supervised areas and between the flags: the Atlantic has currents. The Hôtel du Palais is clearly visible from the promenade and from Miramar beach. To photograph the whole beach, climb the rochedo do Bellevue at the southern tip.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grande Plage
What is the large building at the end of the Grande Plage?
It's the Hôtel du Palais, formerly Villa Eugénie, built in the 1850s for Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. It became a hotel at the end of the 19th century and was rebuilt after a fire in 1903.
Are there surf schools at the Grande Plage?
Yes. Several schools give lessons at the Grande Plage and at the Côte des Basques, depending on sea conditions.