Le Regina, new gold mine of the Experimental Group
Standing like a king on a cliff facing the ocean, the Regina Experimental overlooks the bay of Biarritz. Its travelers, treated like royalty, enjoy a nearly century-old building that has managed to cross the ages and keep its sublime beauty despite its many lives. The legendary hotel of the Basque coast now belongs to the Experimental Group, which has undertaken heavy work to make this 5-star gem a top-notch destination. The decor imagined by interior designer Dorothée Melichzon plays with the great classics of neo-Basque architecture, Art Deco, the close ties of this territory with Japan, and the art of living by the sea. After a year of major renovations, it unveiled its new face last July.
©Mr.Tripper
Built in 1907 by architect and landscaper Henry Martinet, the Regina Hotel & Spa shines with its architectural uniqueness. Its majestic 15-meter-high Atrium is the perfect illustration with a large surface area of 500 m2 bathed in natural light, serving the 72 rooms and suites under an Eiffel-style glass roof. The rooms, of different categories and modular for families, have a large surface area, unique amenities, and a view of the golf course, the city of Biarritz, or the ocean. Some even have the privilege of enjoying private terraces with views of the preserved nature. Expect €200 per night in the off-season, for the most affordable rates. In the summer, thanks to its success and domination in the area, prices rise to €450 per night.
©Mr Tripper
A whole living space centered around a monumental atrium
In the style of a Moroccan riad or the grand typical doors of Spain, the Atrium concentrates all the life of the hotel. Here you will find the bar, which reinvents the atmosphere of a 1920s piano bar with a massive counter and exceptional cocktails made with seasonal and local products. Alongside creative cocktails and a refined range of spirits, guests can enjoy a menu of light finger foods including salads, burgers, sharing platters, a generous fish and chips dish, and a few à la carte options. Timeless gastronomic classics are served in several charming small lounges furnished with the iconic designer Eileen Gray's armchairs. The bar features live concerts twice a week.
©Karel Balas
Frenchie Biarritz: the modern and creative brasserie rooted in Basque culture
At Regina, food enthusiasts come together at the Frenchie Biarritz restaurant to taste the generous, inventive, and mixed cuisine of chef Gregory Marchand. This creative brasserie, which can accommodate up to 100 guests (with a large terrace overlooking the ocean), is deeply rooted in the beautiful Basque culinary culture. On the menu? Banka trout, Gascon black pork, Saint-Jean de Luz line-caught hake, suckling lamb, Axuria rose veal, Basque sheep's tomme cheese from the Aldudes farm, Ossau-Iraty and Espelette pepper... Local gastronomy essentials with a twist and sublimated by the inspirations of a renowned chef and chef Angélique who leads her team with brilliance. Wine enthusiasts will not be disappointed with a beautiful offering of various wines to complement their meal.
The cellar with 500 references on each side.
©Karel Balas
On Sundays, the Regina features a wonderful brunch, served from 12:30 pm to 3 pm. Created based on culinary inspirations and the available fresh products (from the market or the fish market), it offers a gargantuan seasonal buffet with large salads, meats to share, Basque specialties, pastries, and other Sunday meal best-sellers.
A well-being destination to disconnect
Recently, the 5-star hotel also unveiled its new spa with 3 spacious cabins (including two for couples) and a hammam. Guests enjoy signature or on-demand treatments made with carefully selected natural products. This is evidenced by partnerships with the prestigious brand Alaena (from Biarritz) and Susanne Kaufmann. Among the treatments offered: antioxidant treatments for the.Face cleansing, exfoliation, and body wrap for the Atlantic Ritual or lymphatic drainage inspired by Japanese Kobido massage... A small haven of well-being open to the general public. There is also a fitness room available. And let's not forget the heated pool, from Easter to All Saints' Day, which naturally becomes the focal point of the hotel when the sun is shining.
©Karel Balas
Garage: the little brother at the end of the street that plays the simplicity card
With an undeniable attention to detail, high-end services (concierge and valet) and a team devoted to the well-being of its visitors, the Regina hotel promises an immersive Biarritz experience without a shadow of a doubt. Renowned for its boldness in unleashing and uncomplicating luxury hospitality, the Experimental Group has once again hit the mark with an establishment that shines internationally.
Launched 15 years ago by 3 childhood friends, the hotel group now has 12 hotels in 6 different countries. Among them? The little brother of the Régina, Le Garage located just across the street (which used to be the Régina's airplane hangar). Opened 3 years ago, the 4-star hotel has 27 rooms, a large outdoor pool, and a lively schedule of events. Like a luxury hostel, it dances to the rhythm of brunches, concerts, garden parties, DJ sets or yoga classes organized there daily. Working hand in hand with its big brother (just a few steps away), it generally welcomes guests who move from one hotel to another. Real conviviality!
