There’s something magical about mornings in Biarritz. Maybe it’s the smell of sea salt in the air, maybe it’s the surfers catching waves at Côte des Basques… but for me, it’s always the smell of freshly baked bread and buttery croissants drifting from a nearby boulangerie.
If you’re anything like me, no trip to France (and especially to the Basque coast) feels complete without a daily stop for pastries. Biarritz, with its chic Parisian flair and Basque soul, is basically paradise for anyone who believes breakfast should always include butter and sugar.
A Little Taste of History
Biarritz was once a humble fishing village, known for whale hunting and sardines. But by the 19th century, it became a royal resort — thanks to Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III, who made it fashionable among Europe’s elite. Along with elegant villas and seaside promenades came a new wave of bakers and pâtissiers, bringing the refined art of French pastry to the Basque coast.
French bread and pastry culture became what it is today because of obsession and precision — the crisp crusts, the layers of flaky dough, the perfect ratio of butter to flour. It’s craftsmanship elevated to poetry. In the Basque Country, that perfection meets local flavor: you’ll find gâteau basque, almond cream, and even touches of rum or cherry jam sneaking into the classics.
Whether you’re after a simple baguette tradition or a decadent éclair au chocolat, Biarritz delivers — beautifully.
My 3 Favorite Bakeries & Pâtisseries in Biarritz
1. Pâtisserie Miremont (1bis Place Clémenceau)
An absolute icon. Founded in 1872, Miremont feels like stepping into another era — chandeliers, marble counters, and pastries that look like artwork. It’s where locals go for Sunday treats and visitors go to feel fancy. Try the tarte aux framboises or the mille-feuille, and grab a window seat with a view of the sea. Pure old-school elegance.
2. Maison Paries (1 Place Bellevue)
This one’s pure Basque heritage. Founded in 1895, Maison Paries is famous for its Kanougas (soft caramel candies) and gâteau basque filled with either pastry cream or black cherry jam. Everything here feels like a hug from your Basque grandmother — if your grandmother were a world-class pastry chef. Their macarons are delicious, especially with coffee after a morning surf.
3. Maison Adam (3 Pl. Georges Clemenceau)
Maison Adam is absolutely divine. They’ve been baking since 1660 in their shop at 4 Rue de la République, Saint-Jean-de-Luz and are best known for their legendary macarons, with prestigious origins in the royal wedding between Louis XIV and Maria Theresa of Spain.
Why Biarritz Is a Pastry Paradise
What makes the bakeries here so special is the mix of French technique and Basque heart. Everything feels just a little more personal, a little more soulful. Maybe it’s the sea breeze, maybe it’s the pride of local ingredients — but even the simplest croissant here tastes like vacation.
So, skip the hotel breakfast at least once. Wander into a boulangerie, grab something warm and flaky, and find a bench overlooking the Atlantic. Because in Biarritz, happiness really does come dusted with powdered sugar.