PYRENEES – PAU AND SURROUNDINGS

The Pyrenees have a distinctive charm: a more intimate, warmer mountain range, deeply human in spirit. Here, everything feels on a human scale… except the emotions. Athletes come to push their limits—starting with those of the Tour de France—families gather here, food lovers happily settle in, the curious linger, and heritage enthusiasts discover landscapes steeped in history. Each valley tells its own story, each summit invites you to slow down… or to rise to the challenge.

In every season, Béarn offers a precious opportunity to reconnect deeply with nature: the Holzarte Gorge impresses, flocks of sheep move calmly towards their summer pastures, a series of high plateaus shapes the horizon, legendary long-distance hiking trails (GR routes) guide the way, and lively villages with a preserved mountain culture captivate visitors.

In Pau, the elegant royal city, wandering the streets is a pleasure, leading to the monumental castle of Henry IV. The king is everywhere in the memory of the place… and even on the plate: the famous poule au pot, his favourite dish, is still enjoyed today in the best restaurants of the old town.

Béarn is also discovered through its flavours. Here you encounter the queen of rivers, the brown trout, and the king of cheeses, Ossau-Iraty, always best accompanied by a glass of Jurançon or Madiran—discreet yet surprising wines that extend the experience. Just a stone’s throw from Spain, the Pyrenees offer an intense, generous destination where nature, culture, and terroir naturally echo one another.