Holidays in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
SAINT-JEAN-DE-LUZ is a true gem of the mysterious and distinctive Basque Country. It is a seaside resort at the foot of the Pyrenees, not far from Spain (in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department), southwest of Bayonne. It is located on the shores of the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic Ocean.
This town, tucked away in a picturesque bay of the Bay of Biscay, was a haven for freebooters and pirates of all stripes in the 13th century, and in the 19th century it became the most fashionable spa resort on the Atlantic coast of France. A mild maritime climate, magnificent sandy beaches, enchanting Pyrenean landscapes, lively pedestrian streets, and typically Basque tiled houses are just some of the sights that greet the traveler. As in the past, colorful fishing boats depart from the port of Saint-Jean-de-Luz every morning to fish for tuna.
With its stunning beaches, Saint-Jean-de-Luz has earned a reputation as one of the finest resorts on France's Atlantic coast.
The town's main landmark is the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, where Louis XIV and Marie-Thérèse of Spain were married in 1660. The king and infanta's estate is located here. The town center has a distinctly medieval character, with Spanish and Moorish influences evident in its architecture.
An air of charm and antiquity pervades the town. Even in ancient times, this small port town was frequently visited by the world's rich and famous, quickly distinguishing itself from its coastal neighbors. Among these high-ranking guests, it was, of course, the Sun King who made the strongest impression on the town's residents. The central town square still recalls those times. Under the shade of gracefully trimmed plane trees, the royal gazebo, one of the surviving relics of the "Grand Sécurité," tucked away in the square, is a regal pavilion. In the evening, it is illuminated by the flickering of ancient gas lamps.
The town is famous for its covered market. In the narrow space of the medieval square, just as they did hundreds of years ago, friendly vendors display their colorful wares on stalls: seafood, fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers. Here, amidst the bustling bustle of life, it's easy to strike up a conversation with the friendly and open-hearted residents of Saint-Jean-de-Luz.