At just 30 years old, Sirikit Harivongs has opened a coffee shop in Biarritz. When she's not serving her famous yogurts and pastries, she enjoys the best sites of her hometown. Want to know where to surf, the best restaurants and where to admire the sunset? Sirikit shares her favourite places.
Super for swimming
I like to go to the beach of Port-Vieux, also called Les Ours Blanc (the white bears). It’s a pretty stretch of sand in the city centre that’s sheltered from the waves. Perfect for snorkelling on the seabed.
Perfect place to enjoy the sunset
Head to Olatua, a bar nestled above the Musée de la Mer (sea museum), the aquarium of Biarritz, where you’ll have a panoramic view of the ocean and the Rocher de la Vierge, a famous rock in the sea topped by a statue of the Virgin Mary. It is the ideal place for children to run about while their parents enjoy a plate of Basque tapas at sundown. Olatua Biarritz (Facebook)
Surfers' corner
The Basques coastline is perfect for longboards and beginners. The more adventurous may prefer Marbella.
Music and wine bar
I recommend Le Classique, a bar right next to les halles market. The lads who run it are charming, have great taste in music and only play vinyl! You could also try Artnoa, a wine bar that belongs to some friends of mine. The atmosphere is refined but casual, cosy and welcoming and the team are great at guiding customers on the various wines they have. Le Classique (Facebook) L’Artnoa (French only)
Best place to take a stroll at sundown
From the side of the lighthouse you will have the most beautiful view of Biarritz’s beaches and the town of Anglet, twinkling on the other side.
Where to go for a great, but quick lunch
Come to the Frozen Palm, of course! For lunch, I suggest a healthy and vegetarian menu, prepared with fresh and raw products. In summer, my clients come to the Frozen Palm to cool off with a frozen yoghurt and, in winter, warm up around a hot drink and a tasty pastry. Frozen Palm (Facebook)
Yoga among the surf boards
I urge everyone to try out a session of Panya Yoga at Shaper House. My sister teahces some of the classes there. Trained in yoga therapy, she knows how to adapt the practice for everyone, making sure it’s suitable for everyone no matter how new they are to yoga, and whatever their age. As for Shaper House, it's a very special place: you can learn how to make your own surfboard! Practicing yoga in the middle of surfing equipment and with the smell of resin in the air (I love it), is an experience you’ll always remember! Shaper House Panya Yoga (French only)
A star restaurant for two
If you’re looking for a romantic restaurant, I highly recommend Gaztelur in Arcangues, about 12 kilometres from Biarritz. The location is beautiful anytime of the day. It's also a wonderful place to hold weddings, anniversaries, birthdays – any form of celebration. It’s popular so remember to book in advance! Gaztelur (French only)
Find out more: - Plan your stay in Biarritz - Plan your trip to the Pays Basque
By Aurélie Michel
Journalist for the web and press magazines in the fields of tourism, sports and cuisine. Passionate about photography and surfing.