SATURDAY – 11am
To get your day off to a good start, set off to discover this lovely city with a stroll through the old town's lovely narrow streets. Look upwards and admire the houses as they guide you, and make the most of the boutiques and quaint cafés that liven up the streets. In the city centre, a collective of three artists invested an abandoned area and brought it back to life with their street art. The Atelier ambulant project is a great way to discover a new facet of the city.
Wander to the new covered market (« Halles ») to discover its innovative architecture, taste local flavours and meet the area's producers. Gastronomy fans won't want to miss the city's « gourmet pass » ; available at Pau's Tourist Office, which enables you to taste all the local delicacies (Pyrenees cheeses, Bayonne ham…).
SATURDAY – 2pm
You simply cannot visit Pau without taking a tour of its famous castle, a memorial place which perpetuates the legend of King Henry the 4th. Admire the Royal Apartments and « salle des Cent couverts », then end your visit by taking in the amazing view of the town and the river Gave. This tour takes you on a journey, 1,000 years back in time to explore local and national history.
Next, enjoy a drink on a Boulevard des Pyrénées terrace and admire the exceptional scenery. The contrast between the palm trees and the snowy peaks in the backdrop make for a a sight you won't forget !
Pau is a green town with well-kept secrets. Relax in the shade of centennial trees in parc Beaumont. Walk around cyprès chauve lake and stop off for rest at the music kiosk.
For an evening drink, we recommand the Snug, a cocktail bar opposite the castle. Their drinks are homemade with seasonal fruit from the market. You'll enjoy the atmosphere in each of the bar's three rooms.
SUNDAY - 11am
For culture fans, a visit to the fine arts museum is a must. Built in 1930, it is one of the region's main museums. Its exhibitions are renowned for their quality and the variety of works, from the 15th century to today. Here, you'll find paintings by great artists such as Zurbaran, Bassano and Jordaens. All year long, many activities are organized for visitors of all ages.
Into sports ? Test our different golf courses (the town is home to Europe's oldest golf course) then hop over to the racecourse to attend a horse race. A show you won't forget ! For a thrilling experience, try white-water rafting or canoeing/kayaking at the stadium, an amazing spot in the city, to experience aquatic adventures at the foot of the mountains and just a few steps from the castle of Pau.
For lunch with a breathtaking view of the Pyrenees mountains, we suggest hôtel Villa Navarre. The chef's fine gourmet cuisine is made with local products.
SUNDAY – 2pm
Pau was awarded four « lauriers » by the « Ville active et sportive » label. The destination can count on the lively supporters its regional sports teams. In summer, many Tour de France passages occur in the city. Cycling fans simply must visit « Tour des Géants », on the old velodrome, to admire an interactive exhibition dedicated to this internationally famous event.
In May, come and attend the oldest automobile race in town. Its challenging circuits make it quite successful among many race drivers.
If you have some extra time, explore the Pyrenees mountains and admire the splendid landscapes. Just thirty kilometres from Pau, one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, Navarrenx. For a final gourmet experience, take the Jurançon route to meet winemakers and farmers and taste local white wine, with hints of honey and spices.
Follow us, the editors of Nouvelle-Aquitaine-Tourisme.com as we show you around… our home.
From the peaks of the Pyrenees to the Marais Poitevin canals via the wharfs of Bordeaux, the beaches of the Atlantic to the shores of Lake Vassivière near Limoges, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is full of fascinating, entertaining stories that will amuse one and all.
