Susana Abaitua, acclaimed for her role in ‘Un fantasma en la batalla’, has made Bidart her personal sanctuary from the pace of Spain’s film industry. As the 2026 Goya Awards draw attention to Spanish cinema, the actress is drawn to the French Basque coast, where privacy and the natural field offer a contrast to the red carpet.
Bidart is a commune in France’s Pyrénées-Atlantiques department, on the Basque coast between Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. With about 7,000 residents, it combines a small-town scale with a coastline that attracts visitors throughout the year. France’s population statistics are published by the national statistics institute, INSEE, in defined census series and reference years; resident population figures describe a different measure from the seasonal influx experienced by coastal towns. Bidart’s approach to low-impact tourism is reflected in the Uhabia greenway, used by pedestrians as well as people traveling by bike or scooter. From the town centre, the Sentier du Littoral follows the coast towards Saint-Jean-de-Luz, while the Vélodyssée provides a longer-distance cycling route along the shoreline.
The village’s six beaches draw surfers and visitors seeking coastal scenery. Pavillon Royal, the largest, offers a more secluded setting, while Erretegia is known for its green cliffs and golden sand. Parlementia is associated with powerful waves and has attracted experienced surfers since the 1960s. Abaitua, who has surfed here for years, is part of a tradition closely tied to Bidart’s coastal identity.
Bidart’s annual Carnival adds a cultural dimension to its appeal. The 2026 celebration is set to begin on Sunday, March 1, with joaldunak, figures wearing cowbells, parading through the streets. The festivities culminate in the burning of Zan Pantzar in the basic square, a ritual that symbolically leaves the misfortunes of the past year behind. For Abaitua, the event is a chance to reconnect with Basque heritage in a setting far removed from awards ceremonies.
Bidart’s coastal setting and local traditions reflect a wider appeal among public figures seeking a quieter retreat. Tennis star Paula Badosa has also found respite in Begur, on the Costa Brava, a destination associated with privacy and tranquillity, as detailed in this recent report on her recovery and retreat.
Bidart’s discreet character is part of its appeal: natural surroundings and local traditions offer an alternative to high-profile tourism. The commune’s coastal setting also places it within a region where visitor numbers can vary sharply by season, making the distinction between permanent population and seasonal presence impressive when considering the pressures and opportunities of tourism.
Located just south of Biarritz, Bidart is accessible from Spain by road or train. Its beaches are monitored during the summer season, and local authorities maintain the coastline. The Carnival is open to visitors and offers an chance to experience Basque customs. Walking and cycling routes complement the village’s cultural calendar and coastal setting, giving it a distinctive place on the Bay of Biscay.
