Biarritz is a charming, sophisticated seaside town with a rich cultural heritage that is tucked away on the southwest coast of France, close to the Spanish border. This region of France, known as the Basque Country, is distinct from the others due to its unique language, food, and traditions. Historically popular with nobles and kings, Biarritz provides guests a unique mix of culinary pleasure and seaside beauty.
And yes—if you have a soft spot for chocolate, Biarritz is a sweet spot in more ways than one.
A Town with a Taste for Tradition
Biarritz has long attracted nobility and cultural tastemakers. Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III, famously built a summer palace on the beach in the 1850s. That grand building now operates as the Hôtel du Palais, and it's still a preferred retreat for those seeking ocean views and quiet sophistication—reportedly including members of the British royal family.
While the town may be best known for its surf-friendly beaches and luxurious heritage, there's something else drawing people to the cobbled streets: chocolate.
Why Biarritz Is Perfect for Chocolate Fans
Its walkability is among the most charming aspects of the town. Wandering down Biarritz's tiny streets will lead you to several artisan chocolate stores hidden away in quaint shops. Many are family-run and have been honing their recipes for generations.
Each shop offers something different, whether it's rich ganache truffles, Basque-style chocolate bars, or spiced hot cocoa. While nearly every chocolatier is worth visiting, a few stand out for their originality and craft.
My Top Picks for Artisan Chocolate in Biarritz
Here are several neighborhood places I discovered myself visiting again:
1. Henriet Chocolatier
A family business since 1946, Henriet is well-known all across the Basque region. Their pralines are balanced, smooth, and strongly flavored. The chocolate-covered orange peel is highly recommended; it is sweet, bitter, and very gratifying. With its mosaic floor and marble worktops that appear unaltered since the early 20th century, the store itself feels ageless.
2. Maison Pariès
Another regional treasure, Maison Pariès goes beyond chocolate to provide traditional Basque pastries such kanougas (soft caramels) and muxus (almond meringues). Their chocolate selections, particularly the dark chocolate ganache laced with Espelette pepper, a local chili that provides only a touch of heat, stand out on their own.
3. L’Atelier du Chocolat
This store combines artistic ability with culinary skill. They handcraft every bar and truffle in-house and package them in fragile gift arrangements. A highlight: their chocolate bouquets, created from thin sheets of cocoa layered like petals. The taste does not let down; the visual display is lovely.
Where to Stay in Biarritz (Near the Chocolate)
I chose to stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel, which turned out to be a smart move. The location is ideal—just minutes away from both the town center and the beach, with most of the chocolate shops (and the Biarritz Chocolate Museum) within walking distance.
The hotel is modern and comfortable, with a rooftop pool and ocean views. If you’re planning to indulge in chocolate tastings and long seaside walks, it's a practical base.
Chocolate Meets Culture: The Biarritz Chocolate Museum
For those who want to go beyond tasting, the Planète Musée du Chocolat offers insight into the history and cultural relevance of chocolate in the Basque region. The museum is modest in size but rich in detail, with exhibits tracing the journey of cocoa from ancient civilizations to modern France.
There’s also a workshop space where you can see how chocolate is made, along with a tasting session at the end. It’s a great way to appreciate how much craftsmanship goes into each handmade bar you’ll find in town.
A Word on Dining: Know Your Cooking Terms
One quick tip from personal dining experience—be aware of how food is cooked when ordering in France. During my visit, I ordered a beautifully plated dish of canard (duck) at a top-rated restaurant. Expecting something close to what Americans would call "medium," I was surprised when the duck arrived nearly raw inside.
When I asked for it to be cooked a bit longer, the chef was clearly reluctant—though he did eventually return it slightly more done. This isn’t a critique, just a heads-up: cooking preferences differ, and in France, chefs take immense pride in their culinary creations.
If you’re unsure, it’s okay to politely specify exactly how you like your meat prepared.
The Sweet Side of the Basque Coast
Biarritz isn’t just another beach town. It’s a place where elegance meets tradition, where ocean breezes carry the scent of salt and sugar, and where every cobbled street offers something worth tasting. The chocolate culture here feels authentic—rooted in craft, patience, and a love of regional identity.
Whether you're strolling along the Grand Plage, sipping a café au lait by the sea, or nibbling on a handmade truffle between shops, Biarritz delivers a rich and memorable visit for anyone with a taste for cocoa and culture.