Pau is a medium size town of south-west of France, ideally located midway between mountains and coast. I live in a safe and quiet neighbourhood, 15 min walk to the town centre, it means that you will be able to reach it anytime of the day, for shopping in the afternoon, for dinner in the evening, for a drink…
This « ville d’art et d’histoire » (art and history town) labeled town is the home of the “château” (castle) and birthplace of Henri IV, king of France, who reigned between 1589 and 1610. The château is surrounded by large gardens, perfect for a walk, reading on a bench, they even offer a nice picnic spot.
The Pyrénées boulevard is a beautiful walkway where you can enjoy a drink with vue over the mountain range. On sunny days, the view is absolutely stunning !
Don’t miss the opportunity of a travel back in time on board the 1908 cable car. It links the train station to the town centre, heading right in the Pyrénées boulevard.
The town centre shops, cafés, bars and restaurants are as many different ways to discover and enjoy french gastronomy. You can also easily reach a nature spot such as woods and forests nearby or walk along the river « Gave de Pau ».
The cultural offer is large with museums (fine arts, Bernadotte, deportation and Resistance), cinemas, libraries, theatre, shows.
You will enjoy your stay all year round, even in winter. During a month (end november-end december), the Christmas market and the Ferris wheel enlighten the town.
The oldest golf of France which was built in 1865. From there, you can walk or cycle along the river « Gave de Pau ».
There are many other nature spots such as woods and forests where to have a breath of fresh air.
If you like sports, Pau is a famous step in the Tour de France (summer). Almost every year, the town is a stopover of the race. There are also many occasions to watch rugby, basketball or handball games.
In May, the “grand prix” motor race takes place in the streets of the centre.
The Atlantic coast, south of Bordeaux, is called European California. Long white sand beaches, dunes and the Landes forest draw a perfect postcard landscape. Very popular in summer for water sports and sunbathing, the region can be visited all year round. It is becoming a well-known surf spot : every year in Hossegor, a competition welcomes surfers from all around the world.
Anglet beach, Biarritz lighthouse and La Rhune mountain in the background
The Basque country, on the west side of Pau, is famous for its millenial culture and language. Because I am originally from Bayonne, I know quite well the area and I will be pleased to take you there for an excursion. There are many typical villages to visit.
Bayonne and the typical frontages of the “Petit Bayonne” neighbourhood, along the Nive river.
Harbour of Saint-Jean-de-Luz
If you prefer mountain areas, you will find a lot of opportunities to enjoy those beautiful landscapes in the heart of the Pyrenees national park, even if you are not very sporty. You can reach the summits in Artouste with a train or Pic du Midi observatory thanks to the cable car working throughout the year. The beautiful village of Cauterets is a reputed place for its thermal baths. During winter, you can reach a ski resort from Pau within an hour drive.