Guéthary

Guéthary is a small Basque village on the French coast, nestled between Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department. Once a whaling port and later a fishing village, it has retained genuine charm with its little harbour, steep lanes and the Art Nouveau villa Lehen Tokia. The town is well known in surfing circles thanks to the Parlementia break, a renowned spot favoured by experienced surfers for its powerful waves. A coastal footpath links Guéthary to the neighbouring beaches of Bidart and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, offering views over the Atlantic and the Basque coastline. The village has kept a human scale, with a handful of restaurants and pintxos bars serving traditional Basque fare such as Bayonne ham, Espelette pepper and fresh seafood. Its temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and moderate summers, draws visitors throughout the year, particularly surfers and coastal walkers. Guéthary makes a peaceful base from which to explore the French Basque Country, close to the livelier attractions of Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, while retaining the unspoilt atmosphere of a genuine village.