The story: In Biarritz, where neo-Basque hotels often double as postcard-ready hangouts for surfers of varying ability, Casaviel opts for a quieter kind of elegance, the kind you stumble on almost by chance. Hidden down a peaceful street minutes from Ilbarritz and Milady beaches, this old farmhouse turned guesthouse by Diane Diemert and Lucas Hahl radiates sunshine without slipping into surf camp cliché. Inside, five rooms and suites are bathed in natural light, blending clean lines, natural materials (jute floors, linen sheets), Mediterranean arches, vintage furniture and a palette of sand, terracotta and cream… in perfect pitch with the Atlantic beyond. Everything revolves around a lush garden and swimming pool, where lazy lengths are best enjoyed before taking on the unruly waves. In short, a Biarritz escape that swims against the current, and is all the better for it. Rooms from around €250 per night. · Edgar Enpomaluile

Breakfast: Served in the dining room or garden, weather permitting, including specialty coffee, teas and herbal teas, hot chocolate, freshly squeezed orange juice, fresh bread and pastries, fruit salad, house-made granola, yogurt, local cheese, honey, homemade cake, dippy eggs and jams made by their grandpa with fruit from the garden.

Toiletries: Refillable organic, vegan and cruelty free shampoo, soap and body wash.

Little luxury: Bike back from the beach and finish the day off by the pool, far from the summer crowds, before heading to Seabird for dinner.