Biarritz Apartment Life: Pierre & Vacances Haguna Residence

As a seaside city known as a European playground for the rich and famous, there’s no shortage of beautiful, luxurious hotels in Biarritz. But where can a family spread out and rest their heads after a day of playing in the sun, without giving up comfort and convenience? The Haguna Residence, a Pierre & Vacances apartment property, is an ideal oasis for kids and adults.

Pierre & Vacances Haguna Residence Family-Friendly Review

After a morning-long train journey from Bordeaux, I thought we would just drop our bags and immediately run for the beach when we arrived in Biarritz. But once we checked into our Haguna Residence apartment, my husband, two young sons and I felt like relaxing there instead. The breeze blew in from the sea, the living room was comfy, and before I knew it, my family had settled in for afternoon naps instead of beach time. I kicked off my shoes and joined them.

Vacation Home Vibe

The apartments give off that “vacation home” vibe, and we appreciated the comfortable feel of the place right from the start. We stayed in a one-bedroom apartment, which easily accommodated the four of us. The living space is particularly spacious and open, with beds that fold away (this apartment could sleep up to 6, although I think that would feel a bit cramped). The separate bedroom, while small, gave my husband and I privacy in the evenings away from the kids.

Our kitchenette meant we could make meals in the apartment when we wanted, and the dining room table was a nice feature. Note that there is no oven, just a microwave and stovetop for cooking. I particularly loved the floor to ceiling windows that opened up, letting in cool breezes and offering a beautiful view of the courtyard and vibrant architecture in Biarritz.

The apartments are stocked with basic towels, linens, and cleaning supplies (any extras you require are available for a small rental fee). Apartments are generally not serviced during your stay, but additional cleaning can be booked.

The décor added to the vacation home feel. Colorful artwork of surf boards adorns the walls, which is a nod to Biarritz’s reputation as a haven for surfers. Cool, beachy colors on accent walls give the surfer motif a polished look. The furniture was comfortable and casual, but not dumpy.

Family-Friendly Common Areas

A stand-out feature at this property, somewhat rare in urban European properties, were the family-friendly common areas throughout the building’s interior and exterior. A small children’s play area adjacent to the reception desk and breakfast room provided plenty of fun for my kids when we were stuck inside due to a passing rainstorm. And in the evenings, they thoroughly enjoyed running around the fenced-in patio and courtyard, especially when the sprinkler was on!

There is also a well-being area with a sauna and steam room for when parents need a bit of relaxation time. And if you tire of sunbathing on the beach, then the rooftop terrace would be a pleasant alternative for catching some rays away from the waves.

Ideal Location Near the Beach

The Haguna Residence is ideally located just a few blocks from the Grand Plage. We walked to the beach without even bothering with our stroller — a welcome break for us! The end of the Grand Plage closest to the property is directly in front of the beautiful Hotel du Palais, a former royal palace that put Biarritz on the tourist map. It’s quieter at this end of the beach, and has step-free access, making it incredibly easy for families to spend a day there.

We walked to most of Biarritz’s main sights from Haguna Residence, including the aquarium and the Virgin Rock. A free tourist shuttle bus does run, with a stop just a block from the Haguna entrance. Golf courses are plentiful in this area, and several are quite close. If you bring a car, parking is provided to guests.

A small grocery store was just two blocks away, along with a bakery, gourmet deli, wine shop, and fruit and vegetable stand. I felt just like a local, wandering from shop to shop, gathering the things we wanted for our brief stay. (Although Haguna provides bakery delivery each morning for an added fee, or an optional continental breakfast service, if you don’t want to shop much yourself.)

Part beach-side bungalow, part modern hotel, with a bit of surfing flair and plenty of space to play. Any way you put it, you’ve got a great Biarritz holiday property for families at Pierre & Vacances Haguna Residence.

Want More Information and Help Booking a Holiday at Pierre & Vacances Haguna Residence?

Let us know! Our Family Vacation Consultants will be happy to reach out directly to the hotel for Best Available Rates. We can also help you plan a full beach vacation in France or anywhere in the world. Request assistanceon our Connect with a Travel Advisor page.

Relevant Links:

Best Family Hotels and Things to Do in France with Kids

A Family Vacation in Bordeaux and Biarritz

Family-friendly hotel in Bordeaux: Adagio Bordeaux Gambetta

Dordogne Holiday Highlights for Families

Five favorite kid-friendly activities in Provence

72 hours in Paris with kids

Editor’s Note: Nicole was given complimentary accommodations at the Adagio Bordeaux Gambetta. As always, our opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino. Photos by Nicole Wiltrout.