Saint-Jean-de-Luz: experience the French «Le savoir-vivre»
Every year, the French Atlantic coast attracts people from all over the world. We invite you to indulge in the great surfing adventure, or just relax and soak up the French lifestyle. Saint-Jean-de-Luz is only a 30-minute drive from Biarritz, and the perfect place to explore and enjoy the French “savoir-vivre”. We have compiled 7 top tips for you.
French flair on La Rue Gambetta
In the heart of Saint-Jean-de-Luz lies La Rue Gambetta. It marks the perfect place for you to gain a first impression of this French town and discover something new with every step you take. The street is home to many small shops, delicatessens and restaurants.
Craftsmanship up close: leather manufacturer
Many of these local shops are impressive with their beautiful wares and open workshops, where you can look over the artists’ shoulders as they work. Take Atelier Manufactoum, for example, where you can find unique leather accessories, all made from high-quality leather from France and Europe.
Craftsmanship up close: pottery
Another highlight is the Poterie Goicoechea Saint-Jean-de-Luz. This producer of pottery and ceramics focuses on preserving traditional techniques like calibrating, stamping and cord-marking. With every single piece, you notice the attention to detail and how the land, the sea, the mountains and the local culture are a constant source of inspiration. A visit is definitely worthwhile.
Lunch overlooking the Atlantic
Since discovery tours are renowned for making you hungry, it’s just as well that the coastal town also has a lot to offer you in the way of culinary delights. Why not enjoy a breathtaking view of the Atlantic at lunch and take a seat in a restaurant on the Grande Plage? The Aho Fina in the Grand Hôtel Thalasso & Spa is an excellent choice. Here you can sample Euskola, a local brand of cola from the Basque Country.
Royal dessert at Maison Adam
Whilst the dessert menu at Restaurant Aho Fina is very tempting, be sure to leave some room for our next pick: the much-loved macarons at Maison Adam. Don’t expect to find a colourful display of countless flavours here, though. The Maison Adam bakes macarons in the traditional way dating back to 1660. These were once enjoyed by the French King Louis XIV.
Saint Jean Baptiste: the most beautiful church in the Basque country
Once you have nibbled on Louis XIV’s favourite macarons, it’s time to pay a visit to the no less royal church of Saint Jean Baptiste, where the French king was married. The listed church is particularly famous for its monumental altarpiece of carved and gilded wood, which covers the entire height of the rear wall of the apse and the two wings.
Deep relaxation at the Thalasso Spa
Find peace and relaxation at a Thalasso Spa. The region around the Atlantic is known for this special treatment, which uses the healing effects of seawater, sea air and the sun. It’s the ideal way to round off an eventful day or to escape bad weather. The Thalasso Spa at Hotel Thalazur is highly recommended.
All photos by Loren Bedeli owned by Edelweiss
