Saint Jean de Luz

History

Located just south of Bidart and North of Hendaye, Saint Jean de Luz is an authentic port town that has been charming both inhabitants and visitors alike for centuries. Louis XIV believed Saint Jean de Luz to be a suitable enough place to host his marriage, and the composer Maurice Ravel, who was born in the town of Ciboure, frequented Saint Jean de Luz throughout his life. 

The economy of Saint Jean de Luz has humble origins and was originally based on the fishing industry, but by the end of the 19th century, Saint Jean de Luz had evolved into an upscale resort town revered by the French and Spanish aristocracy. Since the second half of the twentieth century, the town has been primarily subsisting on the luxury and tourism markets, but fishing’s influence is still alive and well. Saint Jean de Luz is particularly known for its excellent line caught hake and red tuna, among a variety of other local fish. 

Things to do

Saint Jean de Luz is known for its pristine beaches, golf, casino, spa, shopping, scenic walks, and traditional cuisine. 

Rue Gambetta is the main shopping street in Saint Jean de Luz. It is a pedestrian path with plenty of small shops selling one-of-a-kind goods from local artisans. Rue Gambetta is home to the stunning Church of Saint John the Baptist, as well as world-class macarons found Chez Adam. 

Place Louis XIV is the historic center of St. Jean de Luz. From the square, you can admire the famous dwelling of King Louis XIV, where he resided for a grand total of 40 days in 1659. This legendary home, built in 1643 by Johannis de Lohobiague, represents the wealth of the city during that period. Not only did King Louis XIV marry Mary Theresa in St. Jean de Luz, but he also signed the Treaty of the Pyrenees, which ended the Franco-Spanish war. 

The promenade Sainte Barbe is a beautiful walk that goes from Saint Jean de Luz to the beach “Latitenia” and offers stunning panoramic views of the bay of Saint Jean de Luz. 

For an apéro, we would recommend le Majestic or le Corsaire as worthwhile addresses. There are many excellent restaurants in Saint Jean de Luz, but our favorites include Le Mata, La Cidrerie Luzienne, Le Bel Endroit, Le Bibam, and Ostalamer. 

Saint Jean de Luz Real Estate Market Overview

There is a growing demand for both primary and secondary homes in Saint Jean de Luz, which has an effect on the price of real estate in the area. With its easily accessible location, world-class amenities and stunning surroundings, Saint Jean de Luz primarily offers Basque-influenced apartments, residential villas, and Luzian mansions that sell relatively quickly at competitive prices. 

Overall, Saint Jean de Luz is a luxurious, family friendly place to live thanks to its six clean beaches protected from the waves, friendly inhabitants, entirely pedestrian city center and close proximity to Spain.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Saint Jean de Luz, our team here at O’Plus Immobilier would be delighted to accommodate you throughout your real estate endeavor. Agents at O’Plus Immobilier are passionate about photography and have the capacity to make your home stand out with not only professional photography, but also drone footage, and 3D virtual visits.