Known as Donibane Lohizune in Basque, Saint-Jean-De-Luz is, alongside nearby Biarritz, one of the most popular resort towns on France’s Basque coast. Its sheltered bay makes the beach (the Grande Plage) inviting for a swim, while the town’s surfeit of high-end hotels, spas, and Basque restaurants make it a natural destination for luxury-hunters. But more than just a vacation spot, Saint-Jean-De-Luz has regal culture and history. Formerly a corsair enclave, it was known for its wealth by the 17th century. Its highlights include the Église St-Jean Baptiste (where Louis XIV and Marie-Thérèse wed), the Maison Louis XIV (the king’s former residence), and the Maison de l'Infante (where Marie-Thérèse stayed prior to her marriage).
Thanks to its proximity to cities like Biarritz and Spain’s San Sebastián, Saint-Jean-De-Luz is an accessible place to visit as part of a Basque Country tour (and generally more tranquil than either of those hubs).
Food lovers shouldn’t miss Les Halles de Saint-Jean-De-Luz, a covered market where many traditional foods are sold.
The town offers a wealth of biking and walking trails, as well as surfing, boating, and other water activities.
Saint-Jean-De-Luz’s top restaurant, Le Kaiku, has a Michelin star; be sure to book well in advance if you hope to visit.
Saint-Jean-De-Luz is located on the Basqe coast some 11 miles (18 kilometers) south of Biarritz. If traveling by car, it’s roughly a 20-minute drive via the A63. You can also take the train from Biarritz, Bordeaux and other major hubs to the Saint-Jean-De-Luz - Ciboure station.
Summer is the high season in Saint-Jean-De-Luz, when the town comes alive with cultural festivals, and when vacationers flock to its hotels and area beaches. For a calmer experience (and lower prices), consider visiting in the spring or fall shoulder seasons.
Right across the River Nivelle, Ciboure is Saint-Jean-De-Luz’s neighboring town, and even more relaxed than its sibling. The birthplace of composer Maurice Ravel, Ciboure today is celebrated for its charming Old Town, its sandy beaches, and for its popular Sunday market.