Biarritz, FranceOld Town
Hôtel de Silhouette
Seventeenth-century garden residence
Seventeenth-century garden residence
Life here revolves around a quiet walled garden hidden behind the stone facade, steps from the daily market.
What it’s good at
Notable
Madrid designer Alicia Martín redressed the historic interiors in warm earth tones and bold prints.
Notable
Seventeenth-century townhouse bearing the original stone coat of arms of Étienne de Silhouette.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
It now houses 21 rooms and suites, warmly dressed with rich earthy shades of tobacco brown, rust red, and terracotta, and wallpapers depicting leafy palms.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
The covered market at Les Halles sits right across the street, and the beach is an easy walk away.
The rooms
Bedrooms feature earthy palettes and Casa Lopez textiles, while upper levels look out toward the Atlantic.
Garden Bar
The red timber pavilion serves signature cocktails and local Basque wines across the leafy garden terrace.
At the table
Breakfast and seasonal bistro dishes are served on the brick patio and inside the Grand Salon's terracotta lounge.
How it began
Louis XV's finance minister Étienne de Silhouette lived here, inspiring the word silhouette. His carved family crest still marks the doorway.
Biarritz
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.