Midway between Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz on France’s rocky Basque coast is Bidart, a charming village set on a cliff over the ocean. Hotel Itsas Mendia sits right in the middle of town, tucked away between gabled houses, wooden churches, and an 18th-century mill. Once a family home, later a boarding house, the whitewashed building with cheerful red shutters looks traditional from the outside. But inside, this boutique hotel is surprisingly modern. Guest rooms are airy and bright, with high beamed ceilings, large windows, oak parquet floors, and walk-in showers. Many have balconies with views of the ocean or the hydrangea-filled gardens, where breakfast is served when the weather cooperates. In summer, there’s a long lap pool and terrace overlooking the mountains; year-round, the beach is just a short stroll down the hill.