Gracefully situated on the Bay of Biscay, Biarritz is a luxurious seaside town full of amenities such as magnificent beaches, superb sporting facilities, and a natural charm unlike any place else. First discovered as a whaling port, over time the town grew into the sophisticated seaside resort that it is today, thanks to empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, and other royals, who established the city as a popular vacation destination in Europe. In the summertime, Biarritz, also known as the surf capital of Europe, comes alive with spectacles like bands playing, surf festivals and contests, jugglers, artists and parades. SPI Biarritz offers students the opportunity to live with a local homestay family, take intensive French classes, and experience the vibrant, cosmopolitan, yet relaxed lifestyle of this authentic French town. It provides the perfect environment for you to immerse yourself in the language, the French art of living, and the strikingly different Basque culture. You too will fall in love with this beautiful part of the Pays Basque!
History of Biarritz | Map of Biarritz
What Students Say
Biarritz was an amazing place to live! The people there were so helpful and friendly. I wanted to stay for the whole summer!
My homestay mother was the best part of my experience! It really opened my eyes to how hospitable and kind the French people and culture really are. Paris was by far my favorite excursion and I can’t wait to go back and stay with my host family again!
My French has improved so much, and my comprehension is finally to a point where I can understand everything the people say to me in French. I definitely recommend the Biarritz program to any serious French learner.