Hôtel du Palais Biarritz

On a trip to Biarritz, I had the pleasure of staying at the Hôtel du Palais, a property steeped in history. The Hôtel du Palais is a historic hotel located on the Atlantic coast in the French Basque region. Originally built by Napoleon III in 1855 as a summer villa for Empress Eugénie, the hotel played a key role in transforming Biarritz into a fashionable resort town for the wealthy.

After being sold and converted into a hotel casino, it was devastated by fire in 1903, but was rebuilt and became a favorite among European royalty, including King Edward VII. Though it fell into disrepair and closed briefly in the 1950s, it has since been fully refurbished and is now managed by Hyatt as of 2018, thus continuing its legacy. This hotel carries the weight of its imperial origins while offering the modern comforts and impeccable service expected of a hotel with Palace designation—a rare accolade given to only the most exceptional hotels in France. From the moment we arrived, the hotel’s blend of grandeur and personalized service set the tone for an unforgettable stay.

Thanks to my Hyatt Globalist status, we were upgraded to the Alphonse III suite, a spacious, well-designed room with one bedroom, one bathroom, and a powder room. We were welcomed with a bottle of champagne, fruits, and pastries. The large living area, complete with a sofa, lounger, and small dining table, was a perfect space to relax after exploring Biarritz. The suite’s views were incredible—overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the hotel’s pool. One morning, we even caught a glimpse of a stunning rainbow arching over the Biarritz Lighthouse, adding a touch of magic to our stay. As of 2012, the hotel had 124 rooms and 30 suites.

Visiting Biarritz in November meant fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed and peaceful experience. The town, while quieter, still had its unmistakable charm. Biarritz, known for its elegant mix of French and Basque cultures, has been a popular seaside destination for centuries, and even in the off-season, it’s easy to see why. The coastal views, historic architecture, and excellent local food all make it a captivating place to visit year-round.

Our mornings began with a complimentary breakfast buffet, courtesy of my Globalist status. The spread included a selection of fresh pastries, fruits, local cheeses, and hot dishes off the menu, all served in a regal dining room with views of the Atlantic. It was a great start to each day. We did not have a chance to enjoy any other meals at the hotel as we had lunch and dinner reservations in town.

The hotel also features the Imperial Spa, where we took full advantage of its indoor pool. The spa facilities were exceptional, offering a peaceful space to unwind and recharge after a day of exploring. Unfortunately, we did not have enough time to utilize any spa treatments during our stay.

The hotel’s bar was another favorite spot, where we enjoyed not only fantastic cocktails but also stories about the hotel’s past. Hearing about legendary guests like Gary Cooper, the Duchess of Windsor, Coco Chanel, and Frank Sinatra added a layer of history to our experience, making our evenings at the bar all the more enjoyable.

The hotel’s valet service was quick and made driving around Biarritz more enjoyable. As our trip included a stay in Biarritz, San Sebastián, and Bilbao, renting a car was an easy decision. Daily parking is included for globalists on award stays.

The concierge was also a standout, providing us with excellent recommendations for local tapas bars, where we sampled delicious Basque cuisine and soaked in the town’s laid-back coastal vibe. Most of the bars in town were not open during our stay, but the ones that were open were quite busy.

Rates at the Hôtel du Palais vary depending on the season. In the off-season, rooms start around €350 per night, while during peak summer and fall months, rates can reach €1,200 for base rooms. If you are a member of the World of Hyatt program, points redemptions start at 40,000 points per night. Be sure to check Hyatt’s website for the most up-to-date rates. Booking via Hyatt directly, or a Hyatt Privé travel advisor, is the only way to ensure your elite benefits are honored.

Overall, Hôtel du Palais offers a rare blend of luxury, history, and personal service that lives up to its Palace designation. Whether you visit during the summer season or the quieter months, it promises an experience that’s both indulgent and deeply connected to the rich culture of Biarritz and the Basque coast.