Great days out in South West France

1. St Jean de Luz (Biarritz)

This charming Basque seaside town has a glorious beach, a fantastic range of seafood restaurants and offers a less 'glitzy' alternative to Biarritz for shopping. Built along one side of a sheltered bay, St Jean has a colourful history of whaling and piracy. There is lots to see and do in St Jean de Luz, visit the Musée Grévin, walk along the Promenade des Rochers and explore the rue Gambetta to name but a few. There is also a good range of boat hire options and ferry trips on offer at the harbour.

2. Bayonne

Bayonne is the capital of the French Basque country and, unlike the modern Biarritz, maintains many traditional Basque features. A great deal of history surrounds Bayonne, some of which is obvious from its ramparts, its gothic cathedral and also its Musée Basque. Don't miss out on the Izarra tasting at the Distillerie de la Côte Basque, a local liqueur made from '100 flowers of the Pyrenees'. If you are lucky enough to be around during the five days in August when the 'Fêtes de Bayonne' is on, make sure you have a look at what this festival has to offer and experience the real Basque country.

3. Chocolate museum (Biarrtiz)

This museum will appeal to anybody who enjoys a bar of Dairy Milk or two! You will learn about the history of chocolate and the secrets of its making. There is a display of ancient tools, a collection of moulds and various collectors items and posters. You will also discover about fifty sculptures entirely made of chocolate! Most importantly you have the chance to taste the chocolate made here and buy some of it in the shop to take home as a souvenir.

4. Biarritz

Biarritz is a stylish resort that is world famous for its surfing and chic boutiques. Explore the old town and marine centre, before heading to the Rocher de la Vièrge, the white statue of Mary on a rocky outcrop, for a spectacular view of the sunset.

5. Grottes d’Isturits et de l’Oxocelhaya

The Grottes (caves) d’lsturits et de l’Oxocelhaya are 45km from Boarritz, between Hasparren and St Palais. These caves show evidence of occupation by prehistoric man, there are stunning examples of stalactites and stalagmites. The tour which lasts 45 minutes is available in English, French and Spanish.