Hôtel de la Plage
A coastal classic reborn in Biarritz’s tranquil Port-Vieux
Where Basque heritage meets contemporary calm
Set above the Bay of Biscay in Biarritz’s peaceful Port-Vieux neighbourhood, Hôtel de la Plage stands where a Basque fishing village once met the sea. Long admired for its royal 19th-century glamour and more recently its rising art and film scene, Biarritz now welcomes a new chapter with this thoughtfully redesigned boutique retreat. Its beachside setting is effortless; its spirit quietly confident.
Design that feels rooted, refined and refreshingly modern
Artistic director Olivier Granet and Paris studio Gardera & Pastre have reimagined the hotel with a contemporary Basque lens — no beach clichés, just warm tones, crafted textures and a calming architectural rhythm. Each of the 20 individually designed rooms is anchored by a striking floor-to-ceiling panelled wall, while local designer Veronika Pertseva layers in hues lifted directly from the Bay of Biscay and the lush foothills behind it.
Rooms shaped by craft and character
Every room includes a bespoke piece of furniture designed specifically for its space. Textile headboards by LRNC soften the lines, shell-shaped sconces by Axel Chay provide gentle glimmers of light, and artworks by Mathieu Chavaren, Jules Focone and Lucas Castex offer subtle, place-rooted storytelling. Bathrooms feel serene and tactile, with detailing that honours both sea and shore.
A rooftop that frames the whole coastline
Above it all lies a sweeping rooftop terrace with 180-degree views across Port-Vieux and the dramatic Rocher de la Vierge. It’s a natural gathering point from sunrise to sunset, where guests share ceviche, burrata salads, local wines and pastries from the beloved Noisette Bakery — all with the Atlantic stretching out below.
Communal spaces with a playful coastal pulse
Just inside the entrance, a small boutique curates ceramics, prints and artisanal objects by local makers. Nearby, a suspended contemporary fireplace anchors a cosy waiting area, ideal for misty mornings. Mid-century chairs invite lingering, while a neatly arranged rack of books and magazines encourages slow reading with a view over the bay.
DNA Hotels verdict
Hôtel de la Plage is coastal Biarritz distilled: warm, design-forward and quietly chic, with a deep respect for Basque tradition woven into every texture and tone. For travellers seeking a seaside escape that favours authenticity over ornament, this is an oceanside haven with soul, style and a true sense of place.
