Biarritz-parme
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Leisure:fishing, 4x4 rallyes, tennis, golf, pelote basque, horse-riding...
Shops, tapas bars and restaurants...
THE AREA
Places of Interest: Abadia Castle and domain, the Basque Country, its picturesque villages..., Biarritz (20km), St Jean de Luz and its fishing port, Bayonne and its gothic cathedral, Spain, the nearby towns of San Sebastian, Hondarribia (by sea shuttle)...
Crossing France from Normandy to the Pays Basque is like crossing different countries with extreme changes of life and scenery along the way.
* NORMANDY: Large and elegant beaches contrasting with a green countryside.
* BRITTANY: A region with its own independent history, an indented coastline with some wonderful beaches here and there...
* VENDEE: Stretching from the Isle of Noimoutier to La Rochelle along the Atlantic coast, the Vendee area offers great beaches, extensive vineyards, imposing castles and picturesque villages.
* CHARENTE-MARITIME and LANDES: Land of gastronomic delights and fine wines, the area has large beaches, quaint villages, lakes and cities known for their glorious past.
* PAYS BASQUE: Rich in traditions and entertainment, the French Basque country has a very cultural and artistic heritage.
Be a guest to one of the world's most exclusive tables. France, land of gourmets and culinary arts, offers a bewildering array of food and wines from delicious simple fare to exquisite haute cuisine. With over 340 sorts of cheese and 450 quality wines France will satisfy every palate.
Beyond gastronomy, from North to South France sparkles with an incredibly rich cultural and historical heritage of famous castles, churches, cathedrals and museums carefully preserved and restored which makes it one the most sought afterand enthralling destination for holidaymakers from around the globe.
France takes prides in the rich and diverse tapestry of its magnificent landscapes which have been celebrated throughout the centuries by its many famous writers, poets and artists in words and creations so many of which have become part of the world's cultural heritage and still inspire today's travellers to discover it for themselves. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday or want to commune with Nature, whether you wish to step back into history or are searching for an active sporting adventure, France will welcome you with open arms, seduce you with its warmth and entertain you with its wide range of attractions enabling you to achieve that perfect holiday.
A word of advice from Lagrange: French roads are excellent, but not free, so keep some euros handy.
Located in the very south-west of France, Le Pays Basque boasts a rich artistic and cultural heritage. Hills and forests make it a heaven for walking and cycling with a wide choice of landscapes and unspoilt environment. It is a joy to discover its traditions and colourful festivals of all kinds : Whether a bullfight in Bayonne or a friendly fight between the people of two neighbouring villages, no need to go further...
Biarritz is the undisputed capital of the French Basque Country, it is also a great seaside resort with large beach areas and a meeting place for surfers around the world. Its beautiful rocky coastline and casino are two other outstanding features.
The area is renowned for its cuisine : Bayonne ham, "Ttoro" (local fish dish), "Piperade" (spicy hot mix of olive oil, garlic, onion, eggs and tomatos)...
