Once a simple fishing village, Biarritz is now a stylish seaside resort full of fashionable bars, shops and restaurants. Don’t worry, you don’t have to blow your budget, many of them are affordable and window shopping is totally free.

In Biarritz, you’re so close to Spain that it would be a shame not to hop over the border and say hola to this grand old seaside resort. Get lost in the narrow streets and find yourself in a bar or restaurant with an ice cold cerveza and a tapas or two.

Only 8km from the Spanish border , this lovely walled town lies deep in French Basque country; it’s the starting point of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela and well worth seeking out. Take a walk up to the Mendiguren Citadel for a panoramic view over the town and surrounding countryside.

With no less than five beaches at this easy going seaside resort, you'll be in beach heaven. Tear yourself away from the beach and marvel at the ornate Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church - its where King Louis XIV got married! Take a break from the sightseeing and try some of the regional Basque specialties.

Lourdes is a special place for Roman Catholics and the town attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world each year. It is renowned for its great atmosphere and whether you are one of the faithful or not, you’re bound to have a good time. The Chateau Fort de Lourdes and Basilica of the Rosary are very much worth seeing.

This popular ski resort offers plenty to do in the summer. For lovers of the great outdoors there are plenty of trails to hike, ride and cycle, and those who like to be indoors can enjoy the cinema, theatre, shops, bars and restaurants.

Thermal baths were introduced into the region by the Ancient Romans, and the Grand Thermes here are some of the best. Once fully relaxed and revived, you can head over to the Saturday morning market to stock up on all sorts of delicious local produce, or just maintain your relaxed state in one of the cafés on tree-lined Coustous Square or by the River Ardour.

This ancient spa town is still going strong.  It’s been famous for its hot springs since Roman times, and there is a fountain in the centre pumping out thousands of litres of hot water every day. There’s a great aviation museum, cathedral, botanic garden, and no less than 12 spas!