Saint Jean de Luz

Photo of Saint Jean de Luz
Credit: Flickr user Terre et Cote Basq
Photo of Saint Jean de Luz
Credit: Flickr user Franck BARRE
Photo of Saint Jean de Luz
Credit: Flickr user James Bailey
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About Saint Jean de Luz

Set at the mouth of the Nivelle River, the restful port town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz is just south of Biarritz, and close enough to the Spanish border to nip across for lunch. Characterised by brightly painted Basque houses and a lively fishing port, Saint-Jean-de-Luz has been a popular holiday destination with both French and international travellers since the mid-19th Century. There’s now a good choice of B&Bs, hotels and restored châteaux for couples, friends or families to enjoy, both within the town and in the surrounding countryside. Carefully chosen for their location, amenities and design, our list of the best places to stay in Saint-Jean-de-Luz includes some real gems.

History buffs can marvel at the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church, where King Louis XIV and Marie-Thérèse of Spain were married in 1660, visit the Maison Louis XIV Museum, or take guided tours of the Château d’Urtubie. Keen shoppers, on the other hand, will love buzzy Rue Gambetta and savouring fresh produce at Les Halles, the revamped farmers’ market. Stroll along the beachside Promenade Jacques Thibaud, hike the Sentier du Littoral, or surf and soak up the sun at Grande Plage and Plage d’Erromardie. Thalassotherapy wellness treatments, using salt water, are popular and highly recommended.

Do bear in mind that the best places to stay in Saint-Jean-de-Luz fill up fast during the French school holidays in the summer, and at Basque festival times. Book well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Saint-Jean-de-Luz

For a charming b&b

  • La Devinière offers six characterful rooms with brightly coloured walls, little bathrooms and an eclectic selection of curiosities gathered by owners Bernard et Marie-France Carrère. A charming B&B in the heart of town and within walking distance of the beach. Quirky and welcoming.

For families

  • La Réserve offers stunning sea views from its cliftop location. Amble down the coastal path to the beach as a family, play a game or tennis or kick back in the gardens after big days of surfing. Ilura Restaurant serves traditional Basque cuisine — and has children's menus — and the largest of the airy, contemporary suites sleep four guests: perfect for families.

For a rural château

  • Château d'Urtubie has belonged to the same family since it was built in 1341. Set within private gardens and parkland just three kilometres from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, it's an appealingly laid-back rural escape, with classic interiors and an outdoor pool. Guided tours are fascinating. A tranquil hideaway.

For an apartment or holiday villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, 25 minutes' drive away, or to San Sebastián Airport, 35 minutes away across the border. Alternatively, travel by TGV from Paris to Biarritz in under 5 hours, and drive to Saint-Jean-de-Luz from there.
  • France is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between May and September for warm weather (with temperatures peaking around 25°C) and perfect for a beach holiday. Spring or autumn visitors can expect cooler temperatures.

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The best hotels in Saint Jean de Luz

Chateau d'Urtubie
Chateau d'Urtubie

Saint Jean de Luz (St Jean de Luz)

Elegant family-run chateau. Sympathetically restored bedrooms and suites crammed with antiques and artworks, and seriously impressive public spaces. Beautiful grounds and lovely swimming pool. Within walking distance of a gourmet restaurant. Ideal for foodies, couples, and local explorers.

  • Value chic - Beautifully restored rooms start from just €85 per night.
  • Foodies - Michelin recommended gourmet restaurant very close by.
  • Great walks - There's a good range for all abilities from walking the coastal paths to hiking in the nearby mountains.
  • Local markets - Visit one of many traditional local markets in the surrounding towns and villages.
from $89 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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La Reserve, Saint-Jean-de-Luz
La Reserve, Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Saint Jean de Luz

Beautiful hotel with stunning vistas of the Atlantic ocean. Its contemporary rooms are light and spacious with balconies that boast views out to the sea. Have a game of tennis or amble down the coastal path to the charming town of St Jean de Luz. The perfect place for exploring the Basque coastline.

  • Families - Tennis courts, gardens, children's menus and plenty of activities - plus dogs are allowed
  • Eco break - An eco friendly escape
  • Great walks - Walk the coastal pathway which you can pick up right in front of the hotel
  • Views - Its spectacular clifftop setting ensures great views out over the Atlantic
from $121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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La Devinière
La Devinière

Saint Jean de Luz

Utterly charming and individual B&B in the heart of the old town. An eclectic mix of decorations - china, rugs, objets d'art, paintings, and a wonderful library. Minutes from the beach. A really characterful spot.

  • Beach Life - A gorgeous french house on a quiet pedestrian street leading to the main beach, in the heart of the old city.
  • Full of character - La Deviniere oozes character and is filled with period objets and antiques plus a vast library to lose yourself in!
  • Sights nearby - Located in St Jean de Luz's old town
  • On the beach
from $126 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Madison
The Madison

Saint Jean de Luz (Pyrénées-Atlantiques)

A stylish 4-star gem in the heart of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Chic interiors offer hardwood floors, show-stopping light fixtures, and seamless colour co-ordination. With a gourmet brasserie, relaxing spa, and inviting indoor pool, it’s a haven for comfort and luxury. The essence of French sophistication.

  • Sights nearby - Visit the historic Maison de l’Infante, where Marie-Thérèse of Austria stayed, offering a glimpse into the town's rich history
  • Surfing - Experience the thrill of surfing on the Basque coast, for beginners and seasoned surfers, with numerous surf schools available
  • Beach Life - Just steps from the beach, ideal for a relaxing coastal escape, featuring a stunning spa, outdoor pool, and sea-view rooms
  • Local exploring - Located in the heart of things, offering easy access to the charming Gambetta Street, bustling markets, and historic sites
from $223 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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