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.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Biarritz.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.