The bar proposing cocktails and spirits at the Hôtel du Palais honours Biarritz’s imperial heritage in a plush, cosy setting. In Second Empire style with a royal blue ceiling and walls, bronze-coated mouldings and red velvet armchairs, the decor is set off by a majestic 400-kilo chandelier with pendants in original crystal, beneath which guests just love to sip a cocktail.

The barmaids then compete in creativity, revealing their talent in original seasonal concoctions. “Holy Marie” is composed of vodka, tomato juice, mixed spices, Ossau-Iraty and clarified milk, while “Zombie d’Ici” pairs amber rum, Armagnac, Izarra Verte, “Basque gâteau” infusion, Espelette pimento syrup, and passionfruit. Tributes to the Pays Basque are evident, with priority given to regional products. Just as sophisticated, mocktails are a must, with original non-alcoholic creations such as “Papaloma” and “Negronini”. Also on the programme, a collection of carefully chosen gins, spirits from here and elsewhere, and an exclusive selection of vintage champagnes. Behind the bar, connoisseurs will be delighted to discover an exceptional Armagnac dating back to the hotel’s opening in 1904. Their eyes will also undoubtedly be riveted on the prestigious Rémy Martin carafe of Louis XIII cognac, proudly enthroned above the fireplace.