Language programme in Biarritz

Flanked by the spectacular waves of the Atlantic Ocean, Biarritz is a seaside resort of 40 000 inhabitants located 12km from Spain. Its famous sandy beaches, stretching over an expanse of 3 kms, attract surfers from all over the world who are eager to catch the next wave.

Biarritz is also the capital city of Basque Country, a fascinating region with the print of Anglo-Saxon and Spanish cultures.

This is a pleasant and lively city which attracts a lot of young people. Its picturesque cobbled streets, trendy shops and cafes, varied dining options and sports events make Biarritz the ideal summer destination for students of all ages. Apart from surfing, youngsters can join a golf, rugby, basketball or tennis game, or get a bodyboard out and try your hand at pelota.

With nearly 25 years of experience, our partner school and has created a teaching method specifically adapted to young learners. Every year it is host to young students from all over the world.

The school is ideally located in the centre of Biarritz, a short walk from the beach.

School facilities include:

  • 10 bright classrooms, equipped with AC and projectors
  • Reception
  • WiFi
  • 2 student lounges
  • 5 bathrooms
  • 2 kitchens

Choice of French or English lessons

  • Lesson length: 45 minutes
  • Class size: maximum 15 students
  • Schedule: from 09:00 to 12:30 (including 30 mn mid-morning break)
  • Placement test: online writing test prior to arrival, oral test on the first day of lessons
  • Certificate of completion at the end of your stay
  • Qualified native teachers (French or English)
  • Language level: beginner to advanced

Duration: minimum of 2 weeks (1 week upon request only)

French or English & Multi-Activities

  • 20 French or English lessons per week
  • 4 half-days of supervised sports or cultural activities per week
  • 1 half-day of surfing (2 hours at the Surf School)
  • 1 all-day excursion on Saturday
  • Sunday spent with the host family

Some of the many activities available include:

  • All day trips / Cultural visits: Biarritz miniature train sightseeing, Chocolate Museum, Surf Museum, Sea Museum, Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, San Sebastián (Spain),
  • Sports activities: beach volley, football, golf, pelota, surfing, rafting, etc. (all supervised by qualified instructors).

In addition to these activities, students will have the opportunity to attend various parties and barbecues.

French or English & Surfing

This programme is open to all surf levels, from complete beginners to advanced surfers. A certificate of completion issued by the French Surfing Federation will be given to all participants at the end of their stay. Fully qualified surf instructors coach and supervise the activity. Surf gear and equipment can be loaned at the school free of charge.

The course includes:

  • 20 French or English lessons per week
  • 4 half-days of supervised surfing activity per week. Each session lasts for 1:30 hour
  • 1 all-day excursion on Saturday
  • Sunday spent with the host familyAttention : the surfing activity depends on the tides times and the overall state of the sea (power of the waves). It therefore cannot be organised at pre-scheduled times but the total number of sessions is guaranteed over the entire duration of the stay.

In addition to these activities, students will have the opportunity to attend various parties and barbecues.

Note: afternoon activities end up between 15:30 and 16:00 except for the 13-15 years students who will be supervised every activity day by their instructors and group leaders until 18:00.

Important note : if the students want to go out after the evening meal or on Sunday afternoon, a written parental consent will be required.

Homestay (host family)

Shared room (with student of same gender but different nationality and mother tongue), shared bathroom, full board.

Travel time to school for 13-15 years: families live within walking distance (about 10 minutes maximum).

Travel time to school for 16-18 years: families are located in residential areas within Biarritz, about 15-20 minutes away from the school by local bus transport. A Bus-Pass is provided to students placed in families living more than 15 minutes transport time from the school.

All families provide a packed lunch on activity week days.

Optional at extra cost:

  • Special diet (gluten and/or lactose free, etc.)

Travel

Arrivals: Sunday

Departures: Saturday

Please book your travel so that you arrive and depart between 12:00 and 18:00. If you plan to arrive at your host family’s before 12:00, an additional fee may apply (contact us for further details).

Arrival airports/train stations:

  • Airports: Biarritz (transfer included), San Sebastián (additional fees apply, see Prices & Dates tab)
  • Train stations: Irun and Hendaya (additional fees apply, see Prices & Dates tab)

Transfers: Airport or train station pick-up and drop-off are available on request at no additional charge. However, an additional fee may apply for arrivals after 23:00.

Travel details must confirmed at least 2 weeks prior to arrival otherwise we will not be able to arrange your transfers.

Please note: Do not make travel arrangements until we have confirmed your enrolment in your chosen course.

Visa Information

You might need a visa for this course. For more information please visit our Visa Information page.

Do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email if you require any additional information.

Dates & Prices 2020

Dates 2020

All sessions last for a minimum of 2 weeks.

Programme for 16-18 years:

The programme is available from March 1 to October 30 for 2 weeks minimum. Sessions start every Monday (arrival on Sunday and departure on Saturday)

Programme for 13-15 years:

July and August

Prices 2020

Programme prices

Includes all taxes and enrolment fees

WPCS 42.0.1
Prices including 20 lessons, accommodation, activities and transfers (from/to Biarritz)
DurationMulti-activity programme
2 weeks€ 1.555
3 weeks€ 2.330
4 weeks€ 3.095
Extra week€ 775
Extras
Surfing option (per week) - minimum 2 weeks€ 190
Special diet (per week)€ 20
Extra night€ 50
Round Trip transfers extras
San Sebastián Airport€ 45
Irun or Hendaye Railway Stations€ 35

Prices include:

  • 20 language lessons (French or English) per week
  • Homestay accommodation, shared room
  • Full board
  • Course materials
  • Activities and excursions according to chosen programme
  • Biarritz airport or train station round-trip transfers
  • 24/7 supervision and assistance
  • All school taxes and enrolment fees

Prices do not include:

  • Travel to and from Biarritz
  • Surfing option (at extra cost)
  • Pocket money (approx. €100 per week recommended)
  • Visa fees (if any)
  • Optional insurances