Milady to Lac Mouriscot: A Calm, Coastal-Suburban Pocket of Biarritz
This area in southwest of Biarritz between, Plage de la Milady and Lac Mouriscot, offers a tranquil mix of seaside living and lush, residential surroundings. It’s one of the most family-friendly and nature-oriented parts of Biarritz, with a more laid-back, local feel than the bustling city center or tourist-heavy beach zones like La Grande Plage or Côte des Basques. It is also where we live, and while we are a bit biased, we will try to remain neutral for this blog post.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
Coastal yet green: You’re close to Milady Beach, which is popular but less crowded than central beaches, and just a short walk or bike ride from peaceful Lac Mouriscot, a freshwater lake surrounded by walking trails and woods.
Active & outdoorsy: Surfing at Milady, trail runs or dog walks around the lake, and easy access to the Ilbarritz Golf Course and fitness paths.
Family-friendly: Good local schools nearby, playgrounds, and less nightlife than central Biarritz—appealing to parents or retirees.
Local vibe: While there are some holiday homes, many residents live here year-round, especially families, older locals, and professionals.
Types of Homes
Detached houses (villas): One of the few areas in Biarritz where you’ll find standalone homes with gardens, garages, and terraces—often renovated Basque-style or 1960s–80s construction.
Small apartment buildings: Mostly low-rise, with balconies or sea-facing terraces. Many built in the 1970s–1990s, though some have undergone recent updates.
New developments: Occasional new-builds or luxury residences, particularly closer to the golf course or overlooking the ocean, often with private parking and modern amenities.
Property sizes: Tend to be larger than in central Biarritz, with more outdoor space and better value per square meter.
Accessibility & Amenities
Transport: Quick access to the D810 ring road and A63 autoroute for commuting or weekend getaways. About 10 minutes to the airport or train station.
Shops & services: Not a commercial hub, but there are local shops, bakeries, a few restaurants, and easy access to major supermarkets in Bidart like Intermarche, L’eau vivre, and Ferme Elizaldea.
Parking: Much easier to find than in central Biarritz—many properties have private driveways or garages.
Ideal For
Families seeking outdoor space and peace but still within Biarritz.
Retirees looking for nature, tranquility, and low-maintenance homes.
Buyers prioritizing access to both ocean and green space.
Investors interested in long-term rental potential rather than short-term tourism.
Pros & Cons
Cons:
❌ Less walkable to shops and nightlife
❌ Fewer café/restaurant options nearby
Pros:
✔️ Quieter, nature-adjacent setting
✔️ Larger homes and gardens
✔️ Great for families or those with pets
✔️ Close to beach, lake, and golf
While there will always be some give and take wherever you choose to live, we personally love living in this neighborhood. It is not really a “life on foot” for most, but is easily a life by bike or scooter to the center of town for all ages. Neighborhood restaurant highlights include the Michelin-starred Les Rosiers, the very chic Marloe, and the gastronomic cuisine of AHPE. Another advantage is that Le Connector, the largest co-working and start-up incubator in Biarritz, is in this neighborhood, as well as the high school for hospitality careers and both a middle and elementary school just across the street. So you pretty much have everything you could need or desire in a small area.
