In Anglet, in the Chambre d’Amour district, this natural cave is carved into the cliffs of Cap Saint-Martin, beside the ocean. Its reputation comes from a romantic legend: two young lovers, Saubade and Laorens, are said to have died in the cave after being caught by the rising tide. The story has inspired writers and poets since the 18th century and has become one of Anglet's best-known local tales.
A cave linked to a local legend
The story was notably popularised in 1784 by François de Baculard d’Arnaud, then taken up in the 19th century by Joseph-Étienne de Jouy. The cave has attracted several famous visitors and remains a landmark in the district. The surrounding garden provides a place for walking and taking in the views, close to the beaches and coastal promenade.
A place to see, but do not enter the cave
The cave can be viewed freely from the surrounding area, but entering it is prohibited for safety reasons. The cliff and the sea make access to the interior dangerous. Since 2026, a lighting system has highlighted the cave and recalled its legend after dark; the lighting is scheduled to operate between 21:30 and 01:00. Viewing the cave from outside is free.
The cave is on avenue des Vagues, in the Jardin de la Grotte. It can be discovered on the Promenade des Falaises, an easy circular walk of around 3 km taking 1 hour 30 minutes, with views over the Anglet coastline and the Landes beaches. Visits are free all year round, but lighting times and related events may change.
