Hotel Saint-Julien

Hotel Saint-Julien has a pretty and traditional -- but unassuming -- exterior that's a holdover from its 19th-century origins. Interiors amplify that historic welcome -- there are beautiful period details that wouldn’t look out of place in a Provencal country house. Expect to see high ceilings, pitch pine floors, Regency colors, marble fireplaces, solid oak staircases, and column radiators. But there’s personality, too, and a dash of contemporary style. The walls of the cozy primrose-hued lobby are adorned with French festival posters and maps, and there are pieces of furniture that are clearly derived from Scandinavian minimalist traditions. Outside, the hotel takes pride in its ‘town garden,’ complete with bistro tables for a peaceful sitting spot away from the buzz of the town center. The hotel appeals mainly to couples, who are drawn to the intimate atmosphere, tasteful decor, and tranquil setting. 

Hotel Saint-Julien is set back from a small, tree-lined street that features a couple of other hotels. It’s in one of Biarritz’s quieter central spots, close to the Jardin Public and trendy Les Halles food market. A five-minute uphill walk leads to Gare du Midi train station. Guests can reach La Grande Plage, La Cote des Basques, and the Casino Barriere in a 10-minute walk. It’s a 10-minute drive to Phare de Biarritz lighthouse. Biarritz Pays Basque Airport is an eight-minute drive away.

The rooms are chic, with just the right amount of detail. They have solid pitch pine floors and Regency-colored walls offset by classic white baseboards, cornicing, and dado rails. Distressed wood furniture adds to the charm. All rooms have double beds with crisp linens, modern air-conditioning, wall-mounted TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Room sizes are fair for Biarritz, ranging from 180 square feet (17 square meters) in Standard Rooms to 290 square feet (27 square meters) in all other room categories. Views either look out over the terra cotta rooftops, or towards the distant mountains, sea, and lighthouse. Bathrooms have a neutral palette and vary between room categories, but all have a heated white towel rail, sink with mosaic splash-back, and walk-in rainfall shower or bath with hand-held shower. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided. Standard Rooms have well-designed but tiny bathrooms -- more like wet rooms -- with a walk-in shower. Balneo Master Rooms are individually designed: one modern, one classic, and one with a view of the beach and lighthouse. All have a plush loveseat and a hydromassage bathtub (with hand-held shower). Family Rooms have an additional single bed. For families of more than three, there are interconnecting rooms. One room has been adapted for travelers with reduced mobility. Rooms can be reached by stairs or elevator.

Hotel Saint-Julien doesn’t have many features, but there are a couple of little extras that put it a notch above other Biarritz hotels. The traditional breakfast room is spacious and bright. Breakfast is a relaxed affair; a buffet of well-presented sweet and savory items, with a focus on local, fresh produce. Previous guests note that it’s good value for the quality. On warm days, breakfast is offered outside on the terrace. The hotel has a courtyard-style ‘town garden’ with bistro tables set out among the young trees and potted plants. It's a lovely setting for a cool glass of wine. On cooler days, it might be better to relax on the black leather sofas and armchairs in the chic lounge. Room service is limited to drinks. There’s secure parking on-site (at a fee), which is a big deal. Parking is a common issue in Biarritz, particularly in peak summer season, and it’s rare to find a hotel with secure private parking spaces. Advance booking is recommended due to the high demand. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.