Villa Belza, Neo-medieval palace in Biarritz, France
The rectangular Villa Belza stands on the Halde rock formation, with its stone walls extending over the Atlantic Ocean like the bow of a ship.
Architect Alphonse Bertrand designed the structure in 1880 for Ange Dufresnay, adding a tower and medieval architectural elements fifteen years after initial construction.
During the 1920s, the villa transformed into a Russian restaurant where Cossack choirs performed traditional songs and guests danced the Charleston.
The villa remains closed to public visits, but visitors can observe its external architecture from nearby streets and the Port Vieux beach.
The name Belza originates from Marie Belza Dubreuil and translates to black in Basque, connecting the building to local language heritage.
Location: Biarritz
Inception: 1880
Architects: Alphonse Bertrand
GPS coordinates: 43.48165,-1.56898
Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:41
The coastal path of Biarritz connects the Virgin Rock, Art Deco Casino, lighthouse and imperial palace. The beaches of Grande Plage, Port Vieux, and Côte des Basques provide ocean views. The architecture includes Villa Belza, Sainte-Eugénie Church, and the Orthodox Church. The city center contains a covered market, museums, and a former railway station.
Hôtel du Palais
1.2 km
Rocher de la vierge
312 m
Aquarium de Biarritz
220 m
Église Sainte-Eugénie de Biarritz
371 m
Le Musée de la mer
198 m
Casino municipal
792 m
Biarritz Market Hall
553 m
Château Boulard
1.1 km
Église Saint-Joseph de Biarritz
645 m
Le Port des Pêcheurs
365 m
Hôtel Plaza
846 m
Pâtisserie Miremont
601 m
Plage du port Vieux, Biarritz
120 m
Grande Plage, Biarritz
875 m
Le Petit Train de Biarritz
716 m
Grande plage
896 m
Côte des Basques, Biarritz
753 m
Scenic viewpoint
320 m
Rocher du Basta
546 m
Vue sur le port de Biarritz
321 m
Scenic viewpoint
183 m
Monument aux morts de Biarritz
213 m
Ancienne église anglicane Saint-Andrew de Biarritz
536 m
Scenic viewpoint
544 m
Temple de l'église protestante unie de France de Biarritz
413 m
Scenic viewpoint
268 m
Couvent des Dominicains de Biarritz
637 m
Hôtel La Maison Basque
832 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes