La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz: An oasis of calm on France’s Basque Coast

Why Go?

Head to La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz (an old fishing town) on France's Basque coast, for a peaceful and re-invigorating break.

Set at the top most point of Saint Jean De Luz, the hotel manages to get the best views of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re after a foodie break, a romantic getaway or just some time to de-stress, this place is for you.

La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz

La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz: The Rooms

Try and bag a sea facing room for truly stunning views over the luscious green garden, swimming pool and rich blue expanse of the Atlantic. There is a real rustic charm here, from the wooden furniture to the linen fabric curtains that fall to the floor just so. The design is considered without being overly done and you really do feel at home. Choose from studios or apartments with more than one room which are ideal for up to five people.

La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz

La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz: The Food

Foodies will love it here. Ilura, the hotel’s main restaurant champions Basque cuisine and local produce. Whether it’s the Rock Fish and Langoustines or the local line-caught Hake, everything is fresh and something to remember. Dinner and drinks will set you back around 100 euros for two people.

La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz

La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz: The Location

The best way to explore Saint Jean De Luz is on foot. Go for a stroll along the coastal path turn right (and just keep going) when you exit the hotel. You’ll see old war monuments and breathtakingly beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The best views are at Pointe Sainte-Barbe. And after you make your way down the windy road (Bd Thiers), a slow walk will see you on the Grand Plage beachfront in around 30 minutes.

If you’re after a little bit of shopping, head to Cocotte de Luz (27 Boulevard Thiers, 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France) and browse through Chanel tweed suits and quilted bags. And if you have a sweet tooth, then a visit to Maison Adam (6 Rue de la République, 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France) with quite frankly some of the best macarons we’ve ever tasted, is a must.

The best way to get to the hotel is by car. Biarritz airport is a thirty minute ride away. For the ultimate foodie experience, take a day trip to San Sebastian. There is a bus that takes around an hour, if you don't drive.

La Réserve, Saint Jean De Luz

Don’t Miss

A chance to hang out poolside and spend the day soaking up the sun at the edge of the cliff really shouldn’t be missed. Breath in the fresh sea air and get ready to relax. The pool was a new addition to the hotel and adds that much needed luxury touch. It’s the ideal way to cool down after channeling your inner Serena on the grass tennis court.

The Need To Know

La Réserve

Pointe, 1 Rue Gaëtan de Bernoville, 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France

Price: From £120

Check-in: 14:00 pm

Check-out: 11:00 am

Pool: Yes

Gym: Yes

Spa: Yes

Sunil Makan
Editor

Sunil Makan is the Editor of British Marie Claire. With over 15 years of publishing experience, working on print publications and their digital counterparts, national newspapers and digital pure plays he is an Editor, Strategist, Content Producer, Creative Director and Brand Consultant.

Sunil’s specialisms include Fashion, Beauty and Grooming, Lifestyle and Culture. Prior to Marie Claire, Sunil worked at ELLE, InStyle and Shortlist Media and freelanced at various other titles.