What to do in Saint-Jean-de-Luz when it rains?
Saint Jean de Luz, with its authentic Basque ambience and picturesque charm, is well known for its sunny beaches and mild summer weather. It's a popular destination for nature and culture lovers. But even when it rains, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this beautiful town.
The Hotel Parc Victoria is an excellent base from which to explore a multitude of activities while remaining sheltered from the elements. Here are a few suggestions for making the most of your rainy day in Saint Jean de Luz.
Discover the cultural riches of Saint Jean de Luz, even in the rain
Don't let the weather put you off your stay in Saint Jean de Luz. Take advantage of the rain as an opportunity to delve into the heart of local history and culture by visiting museums and historic sites.
Some ideas of museums and historical sites to visit :
Maison de l'Infante (Maison Louis XIV): Immerse yourself in the city's royal past by visiting this historic house, where the marriage between Louis XIV and the Infanta Maria Theresa took place. Guided tours are often offered to enhance your experience.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church: Don't miss a visit to this magnificent church, listed as a historic monument. Its impressive architecture and richly decorated interior will immerse you in the spiritual atmosphere of the city. Allow around 30 minutes for an individual visit, and the same for a group tour.
Musée Basque et de l'Histoire de Bayonne (Basque Museum and History of Bayonne ): This museum offers an enriching immersion in the daily life of the Basques through a vast collection of objects. The exhibits will give you a better understanding of local culture and traditions.
Musée du gâteau basque de Sare: How about taking advantage of a rainy day in Saint-Jean-de-Luz to don an apron? Head for the Musée du Gâteau Basque, located 15 kilometers from Parc Victoria, for an experience as delicious as it is fun. Here, rain becomes the perfect excuse to get your hands dirty... and leave with your very own homemade Gâteau Basque! Supervised by a passionate pastry chef, you'll learn the secrets of making this emblematic Basque specialty. Several workshops are offered during the school vacations, for young and old alike. Reservations recommended to guarantee your place.
Biarritz Aquarium: Just a 30-minute drive from Hôtel Parc Victoria, this aquarium invites you to discover the region's maritime history. You'll find exhibits on fishing, navigation and marine biodiversity, with interactive activities to delight children.
Taste the flavours of the Basque Country, even in the rain
Rain or shine, Saint-Jean-de-Luz remains an unmissable destination for food lovers. Whether you're seated at a typical inn or in a refined restaurant, let yourself be tempted by the generous and authentic flavors of Basque specialties. These include tuna from Línea, chipirons in ink, pintxos to share in a tapas bar, or a good Basque cider (to be consumed in moderation).
Practical tips:
Reservations: Remember to reserve a table, especially at weekends and in the evenings.
Suggestions: Don't hesitate to ask your hotel staff for recommendations on the best places to enjoy local cuisine.
Our favorite restaurants :
Aux Pigeons blancs - Seasonal, charcoal-cooked cuisine in a friendly atmosphere.
Jatera ! - Restaurant du Parc Victoria, an authentic dining experience
Arrantzaleak, l'auberge aux poissons - For lovers of traditional Basque recipes.
Ekaitza - A gourmet address just a few minutes from Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
See a show at Tanka
Rain on the agenda? Make the most of it and enjoy a cultural moment at Tanka, Saint-Jean-de-Luz's major performance venue. Theater, music, dance or storytelling... the eclectic program appeals to young and old all year round. A modern, comfortable venue, perfect for sheltering while nourishing the spirit.
Discover the Boutiques Artisanales in Saint Jean de Luz
Rain is an excellent opportunity to discover local craft stores. Chocolatiers, cheesemakers and artisans await you with typical products to take home. Near the Hotel Parc Victoria, you'll find numerous boutiques and galleries offering handcrafted creations and local specialties.
Take advantage of these rainy days to go shopping and bring back unique souvenirs, such as Basque textiles, local crafts and gourmet products.
Stroll at your own pace through Saint Jean de Luz town center, brimming with small craftsmen, souvenir stores and Basque fashion boutiques. Don't miss the famous Saint Jean de Luz macaroons, perfect for tasting or giving as a gift!
Practical tips:
Local products: Don't forget to buy local specialties, such as Espelette pepper, Basque cherry cake and ewe's milk cheese.
Take advantage of the rain to explore these artisan treasures and bring a little bit of Saint Jean de Luz home with you!
Wine tasting and cellar tour in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
The Basque region is famous for its wines, with a particular focus on Irouléguy, which has the AOP appellation. Enjoy a visit to a wine cellar located in an old winemaker's house, facing the magnificent bay of Saint Jean de Luz, overlooking the beach of Socoa. Just 12 minutes from the Hôtel Parc Victoria, this experience allows you to learn more about the different cuvées on offer.
Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the different cuvées, taste exquisite wines and buy a few bottles, all in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Come and enjoy the best of Basque wine in an exceptional setting! Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, consume in moderation.
Don't Let Rain Spoil Your Stay in Saint Jean de Luz!
Parc Victoria and the surrounding area offer a wide range of activities for all ages and tastes. Whether you want to immerse yourself in local history, enjoy fun family activities or explore gastronomy, you'll find something to make your stay unforgettable, even under uncertain skies.
Get ready to discover the magic of Saint Jean de Luz, whatever the weather throws at you! Remember to check schedules and book activities in advance to make the most of your stay.
So grab your umbrella and enjoy every moment in this charming corner of the Basque Country!
Whether you're looking for relaxation on the beach, outdoor adventures or cultural discoveries, Saint-Jean-de-Luz has something for everyone. Enjoy its warm atmosphere and let yourself be charmed by its treasures.
Don't wait any longer to plan your getaway and discover Saint-Jean-de-Luz !