Biarritz

Much has been written about Biarritz, and I can only chime in in agreement. Whether for a day, a week or a month, Biarritz is a lovely beachside getaway in the Southwest of France. We spend a day and a half. With the right weather, even a few hours feel restorative.

We stayed at the Alfred Hotel - Porte Vieux, which is set close to a swimming cove between the two main grand plages. This gem boutique hotel is a great location for the beach and to tour the town. After dropping our bags, we had a simple, delicious lunch of ceviche and salad at Roc 7, which is minutes from the hotel.

We then strolled the promenade from the casino to the surf schools.

For dinner, we went to Le Saleya, recommended by the Michelin Guide. The plat du jour was a Korean chicken entree, followed by a fish of the day. Both were superb.

One can easily spend the day shopping. Certainly a stop at the covered market could be a daily event for an apero, lunch or a breakfast of oysters and wine.

I plan to keep Biarritz on my annual itinerary.