Visit the Biarritz Lighthouse (Phare de Biarritz) for unbeatable views of Biarritz’s city centre, sweeping coastline and the Pyrenees mountains. Relax in the surrounding park or enjoy picturesque coastal walks. The 240-foot (73-metre) tall whitewashed lighthouse dates back to the 1830s. It towers above Cape Hainsart, the dividing point between France’s Basque and Landes coastline.
Reach the top of the lighthouse by climbing the 248-step spiral staircase. Enjoy wonderful panoramas and excellent photo opportunities from the viewing deck. Look north along the golden Landes coast and south over the beaches of the Basque coastline. Spot surfers in the rolling waves and the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin’s Rock). On a sunny day, see the rugged peaks of the distant Pyrenees.
A tree-lined park surrounds the lighthouse. Sit on a wooden bench and gaze out to the blue waters of the Bay of Biscay. Peep through coin-operated binoculars for closer views of Grand Plage (Grand Beach) and the Rocher de la Vierge. Visit in the evening to watch spectacular sunsets. There is a small café where you can purchase drinks, ice cream and light snacks. The park is also a pleasant place to enjoy a picnic.
Breathe in the sea air as you make your way along the the picturesque coastal walk that leads from the lighthouse. Follow the path that winds through the woodland to a viewpoint that looks down on the rocks at the north end of Grand Plage.
Phare de Biarritz is a 20-minute walk from Biarritz’s city centre. Free parking is available at the entrance to the lighthouse. Public buses stop about a 5-minute walk away. Find public toilets next to the lighthouse.
The lighthouse is open daily in July and August and there is an admission fee. For opening hours outside of these months, visit the Biarritz Tourist Information Centre, located at Square d’lxelles. Access to the viewing deck is limited and you may have to wait in line during the summer months, but you’ll be rewarded with one of the Basque coast’s finest views.
