Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz completes sensitive renovation

Exterior image of Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz shwing palace like building and crashing waves on the coast
730 565 Hamish Kilburn
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Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz completes sensitive renovation

Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, has reopened following a meticulous restoration that reflects its prestigious history while introducing new, modern elements…

Exterior image of Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz shwing palace like building and crashing waves on the coast

Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz, which is part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand, has emerged from the pandemic with a fresh look. Paying homage to the property’s original architecture and history, the hotel and the majority of its 86 guestrooms and 56 suites have been meticulously restored to reflect the palace’s iconic past in French history.

The only hotel with the recognition “Palace de France” on the French Atlantic coast, Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz is a majestic property that was first built in 1854 by Napoleon III for his wife Eugénie de Montijo. The renovation process has rejuvenated and embellished its original and unconventional splendour, respecting the hotel’s history and legend while modernising certain elements with the guest experience in mind. The hotel’s unique furnishings, rare paintings and refined tapestries reflect the palace’s history.

“We are delighted to welcome guests to the extraordinary Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz. Whether they wish to cross the majestic threshold for a stay at the hotel, a drink at Bar Napoleon III or lunch with the family at our fine-dining restaurant, La Rotonde, guests can enjoy a truly magical experience during their stay,” said Alessandro Cresta, general manager at the hotel. “During the renovation process it’s been of the utmost importance for us to preserve the rich heritage and DNA of the palace that makes it the perfect destination when visiting Biarritz and the Basque Country. We look forward to inviting guests and inspiring collectible moments through bespoke experiences that spark new narratives of their own.”

Interior design image of green/blue walls and doors overlooking town

Image credit: Hyatt Hotels

The hotel shelters 86 rooms and 56 suites with areas varying from 28 to 100 square metres and elegantly decorated with a Second Empire Style that remains true to the original architecture and history as a Palace. Guestrooms on the top floor feature an extraordinary marine ambiance, highlighted by nautical themes reminiscent of cruise ships with rounded windows and portholes.

Guests can enjoy refined, locally inspired culinary creations from the Pays Basque region at the hotel’s restaurant, La Rotonde. The new Chef, Aurélien Largeau, and his team are serving up creative dining experiences for guests looking to make exciting memories. Elsewhere, for those looking to relax and unwind, the Napoleon III Bar offers a menu of carefully selected gins, whiskeys, and vintage champagne in an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere.

Since you’re here, why not read about The Unbound Collection’s debut hotel in Sweden?

With 3,000 square metres spread over four floors, the Imperial Spa is a peaceful haven, featuring an indoor freshwater pool, whirlpool, hammam and sauna. Outdoors, an enticing seawater pool overlooks the ocean, while the famous cabanas on the waterfront offer guests a moment of relaxation. The pool cabanas each boast sunbeds, towels, pool as well as beach access and a private changing room, shower, toilet and free Wi-Fi. 

The hotel is now open for reservations through November 1, 2021. After completing the final phase of its extensive renovation, the hotel is expected to resume operations again in summer 2022.

Image credit: Hyatt Hotels

Hamish Kilburn / 29.03.2021

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