What it is

Once the imperial residence of Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, this beachfront 1854 grande dame is now a 142-room glitterati icon with all the trimmings.

What it isn't

Lacking a thing. You’ll find a glitzy 29,000-square-foot Guerlain spa, five dazzling bars and restaurants, a heated seawater pool, and an indoor pool that looks transported from Ancient Greece.

What we think

It’s not often that you get to stay in the former summer villa of actual royals, but at this Biarritz jewel in the crown, that’s exactly what you’ll do. And yes, it’s still fit for any head of state—actually, even more than before—with its top-of-the-line amenities and elegantly designed interiors. For a historic property, rooms are ginormous, beginning at 322 square feet for a 2 Twin Classic Collection room. We love the 375 square foot 1 King Bed Ocean View Deluxe room for its breathtaking vista of the sea, but would argue that Empress Eugénie herself would book an Ambassador Suite. At 700 square feet, it includes a fully separate living room complete with tassel curtains and crystal chandeliers that put a glimmering crown on your stay.

You're here because

Their brunch is legendary: held in an oceanfront rotunda with the most abundant spread of your life, including everything from lobster to viennoiseries (and plenty of champagne).

The Moment

You’re not sure if you’ve ever been quote so wowed by a spa, but this is unlike anything else—with its freshwater pool, hammam, solarium, and Guerlain treatments, including a Royal Repair treatment that leaves you paparazzi-ready.

Restaurants & Bars

LA ROTONDE - Panoramic restaurant

VILLA EUGENIE - Gourmet restaurant

L'HIPPOCAMPE - By the pool (open April to October)

Location

Set directly on the sands of Plage Miramar, just a 10 minute drive from the Biarritz Airport.