5 good reasons to visit Nay, in the Pays de Nay

Located in southwestern France, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department east of Béarn, the Pays de Nay region delights visitors with its natural setting and varied landscapes of plains, hills, and mountains. From Bruges to Lestelle-Bétharram, the journey continues, unsurprisingly, to the fortified town of Nay, founded in 1302 by Countess Marguerite de Moncade of Béarn. Spend a few days in this charming town and discover the 5 great reasons to visit Nay, in the Pays de Nay.

Visit the town of Nay in Béarn

1 - Explore the superb market of Nay

Renowned throughout the region, the Nay market is a historic event that takes place in the town every Tuesday morning with 120 vendors of all kinds. Colors, aromas, textures, flavors —every sense is awakened in the Place de la République, Place Marcadieu, Rue du Maréchal Joffre, and Rue Marcadieu during this weekly event that attracts locals and tourists alike. The Nay market offers a vast selection of food and other products, including fruits, vegetables, fine wines, local specialties, clothing, cutlery, and handicrafts. Don't miss this weekly gathering around the Nay market halls —an exceptional display that never fails to delight.

2 - To wear a beret from the town of Nay

Nay is the capital of the beret, this iconic headwear of the region that has stood the test of time without losing its elegance. Originally, it resembled a cape, covering the head and shoulders of Roman soldiers in Béarn, before being adapted to the needs of shepherds. Napoleon III, a great admirer of France, discovered this unique headwear and named it the " Basque beret," thus establishing a custom that continues to this day, as it is now made in several colors for both men and women. Discover the entire history, origins, and manufacturing process of the beret in the only museum dedicated to it in the Pays de Nay.

3 - Explore the Maison Carrée in Nay, in the Pays de Nay

This is a visit not to be missed if you're passing through Nay. A listed historical monument, the Maison Carrée in Nay is a former 16th century private mansion that now houses the Museum of Industry. Wander through its corridors and galleries and discover the history of the region and art exhibitions organized by the town. Completely restored between 1994 and 1998, the Maison Carrée is an iconic Nay landmark showcasing textile and woodworking from the late 18^th century to the present day. Admire its Renaissance architecture, its inner courtyard, its ornate facades, and its stepped stair tower, and let yourself be transported back in time by the atmosphere of the place.

4 - Discover the cowbells, a true Béarn heritage

Cowbells are a must-see when exploring Béarn. These bells, attached around the animal's neck, make it easy to spot the cows, goats, dogs, and sheep roaming freely in the mountains. Currently, only one cowbell maker remains, located in Bourdettes in the Pays de Nay region. Passionate artisans, Daban Cowbells are renowned for their metalwork, creating true musical instruments for the herds of the Pyrenees. Discover a unique expertise and an incredible tradition in the Pays de Nay, where these dedicated craftsmen have been adapting their creations to all kinds of animals since 1660.

5 - Relax at Lake Baudreix in the Pays de Nay

Between Pau and Lourdes, this is the perfect place to relax between the beach and the mountains in a protected environment, "la saligue." A typical Béarnais term, it refers to the floodplains of the Gave de Pau river. Come spend a day outdoors on a man-made lake where a leisure center is open during the summer season. Supervised swimming, water slides, water skiing, water jumps, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding —there's something for everyone at the Ô Kiri leisure center. You can even stroll along the many marked trails and get some exercise on the fitness trail, tennis court, or basketball court before enjoying a picnic in a designated area by Lake Baudreix. Let yourself go; the Pays de Nay is also the place to relax.

If you know Béarn or are discovering the region, you now know that a visit to Nay is a must. Don't hesitate any longer and explore this charming town ; you now have 5 good reasons to visit Nay, in the Pays de Nay.

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