Located where the Nivelle River flows into the Bay of Biscay, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a picturesque fishing town in the idyllic French Basque Country. It famously provided the setting for Louis XIV’s marriage to the Spanish princess, Maria Teresa, and is home to the residence where he spent his final bachelor days.
Things to do in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Saint-Jean-de-Luz’s most famous architectural landmark is the Église St-Jean Baptiste where Louis XIV and María Teresa were wed in 1660. Its ornate interior features a gilded Baroque altarpiece and beautiful oak galleries, as well as historically significant paintings and statues. After their marriage, the couple exited through the south door, which has since been sealed over to commemorate peace between France and Spain.
A short walk from the Église St-Jean Baptiste is the Maison Louis XIV where it’s believed he stayed during his final days as a bachelor. Gaze up at the turreted facade of this 17th-century residence before stepping inside to explore the interior on a guided tour. It’s beautifully decorated with period furnishings and antiques, with a highlight being the King’s Chamber where Louis XIV once slept.
If you’re interested in Basque culture and traditions, pay a visit to L’Écomusée Basque Jean-Vier, which lies just north of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Admire the regional furnishings, textiles and artwork that is exhibited, then browse the multimedia displays to learn about locally-made Izarra liqueur and the Basque game of pelota.
Getting around Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Biarritz Pays Basque Airport is around 20 minutes’ drive from Saint-Jean-de-Luz and has flights to destinations across Europe. Trains connect from towns and cities throughout the Basque country to the Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz/Ciboure while the city centre can be explored on foot.