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Hôtel du Palais

Hôtel du Palais

Biarritz, France

Hôtel du Palais

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Standing at the water’s edge, overlooking a surf-splashed beach, Hôtel du Palais Biarritz is one of France’s grandest grande dames.

Built in 1854 as a summer retreat for Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III, and converted into a hotel 30 years later, this celebrated property has seen it all — from Frank Sinatra opening its swimming pool to world leaders gathering for the G7 summit.

A sensitive refurbishment introduced modern comforts while preserving historic features like Corinthian columns and Napoleonic-era gold leaf, winning it a “Palace” designation from the French Government.

Everything here is polished, from the Belle Époque interiors with high ceilings, chandeliers, and marble floors, to the sensational spa and seamless service.

Suites are decorated in a palette of soft pastels with rich fabrics and period furniture — and many bear the names of former guests, from Ernest Hemingway to Errol Flynn.

Ocean views from room balconies and private cabanas beside the seawater swimming pool are spellbindingly big and blue, and the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant takes your tastebuds for a tango through the Basque region. Expect produce that is local and luxurious alongside tableside flambé, vintage champagne, and panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay.

OUR OPINION:

A Belle Époque beauty with more than a century of history, a stay at Hôtel du Palais feels like stepping back in time to a more elegant era. Come here for the slick service, regal suites, sophisticated dining, and blue ocean views.

OUR RATING: Deluxe

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Photos of Hôtel du Palais

  • Hotel du Palais lounge
    Hotel du Palais lounge
  • Panoramic views
    Panoramic views
  • La Rotonde restaurant
    La Rotonde restaurant
  • Hotel du Palais
    Hotel du Palais
  • Pool with panoramic views
    Pool with panoramic views
  • La Rotonde restaurant
    La Rotonde restaurant
  • Le Bar Napoléon III
    Le Bar Napoléon III
  • City view room
    City view room
  • Hotel du Palais
    Hotel du Palais
  • Le Bar Napoléon III
    Le Bar Napoléon III

Rooms

Rooms and suites are spacious, built with high-ceilings and come in various configurations. Double-height windows flood rooms with natural light and Juliet balconies afford views of the ocean.

The decor is regal French, blending Napoleonic-era elegance with a pastel palette and modern amenities. Suites are filled with period features and furnishings, including ornate cornicing, marble bathrooms with clawfoot tubs, and toile de jouy wallpapers. Top-floor suites offer a cruise ship atmosphere with porthole windows, ocean views, and living rooms featuring nautical styling.

Luxury awaits throughout, from sumptuous beds and plush carpets to fresh blooms and electronic blackout blinds.

Location

Located in the heart of Biarritz and set on a promontory overlooking La Grande Plage and the Atlantic Ocean, Hôtel du Palais commands views of the Basque coastline and Bay of Biscay. A walk along the promenade leads to the lighthouse with views of the cape. You’re also just a ten-minute stroll from the town with its bars and galleries.

Food and drink

  • La Rotonde serves French gastronomy in an opulent setting with ocean views.
  • Le Sunset serves fresh seafood in an open-air oceanside restaurant.
  • Set in gardens and ocean-facing, La Terrasse is a casual dining venue.
  • Le Salon is an all-day lounge area with winter garden room offering pastries, hot drinks, and afternoon tea.
  • Bar Napoleon III serves crafted cocktails and vintage Champagne in an elegant setting.

Families

  • Two-bedroom family suites available.
  • Cribs are available on request.
  • The restaurants offer children’s menus.

Facilities and activities

  • Indoor pool with a counter-current swimming system.
  • Outdoor heated seawater pool with private cabanas surrounded by gardens and panoramic ocean views.
  • Spa with hammam, sauna, Jacuzzi, and menu of treatments.
  • Fitness space.
  • Hair salon.
  • Kids’ Club with seasonal activities for children aged 4 to 14.
  • Fashion and gift boutique.

Accessibility

  • Four accessible bedrooms.
  • Elevators and doors with wheelchair dimensions.
  • All communal areas accessible for wheelchair users.
  • Separate entrance for those with limited mobility.

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map

    Biarritz and nearby places