Top 10 things to do in and around Orthez!

Orthez, here is a beautiful destination where to escape. Small town located between Pau and Bayonne in the south-west of France, its landscapes between stone, Gave de Pau river and nature make you travel. Discover a town in Béarn through its heritage and its environment, in the calm of small streets dotted with stories. Orthez is the city to stop in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques.

Opening photo: The Old Bridge Philipimage / AdobeStock

1- Chrestia House

It is famous for having hosted the famous French poet Francis Jammes from 1897 to 1907. A magnificent 18th century residence, since 1982 it has been the headquarters of the Francis Jammes association, in homage to this author, novelist, playwright and critic. Designated Label des Illustres by the Ministry of Culture and the Economy, the Maison Chrestia, on the edge of the road to Pau, preserves manuscripts, correspondence, books, music scores and photos donated by the Jammes family.

2- The Jeanne d'Albret Museum and House

These buildings are also built in the city of Orthez. Mother of Henri 4, and Protestant princess, she played a decisive role in the Protestant history of Béarn. Discover her career in the museum dedicated to her and visit the authentic house of Queen Jeanne, built in the 15th century and listed as a Historic Monument in 1929.

3- Moncade Castle

Built in 1242 on a hill culminating at an altitude of 100 m, it is an old fortified castle equipped with 3 arrow slits. Its forms and its medieval military architecture are surprising, with a very elaborate vertical ditch without dead angle for the time. Go to the keep to discover several exhibitions, before going to the top where the panoramic view is breathtaking over the city and the Pyrenees chain.

4- The Mill of Candau

Located a few kilometers from Orthez in the village of Castétis, it is the water mill of the old castle of Candau, built in the 16th century. Returned to service in 2008, it grinds wheat and contributes to the preservation of the river's biodiversity. Visit the museum of old miller's tools and stroll along the stream to the Gave de Pau.

5- The Old Bridge of Orthez

Built in the 13th century, this monument is atypical with its tower and its uneven arches. Resistant to the assaults of history, it allows the crossing of the Gave de Pau for pilgrims and the transport of goods. You can cross it coming from the city of Orthez, or take the access next to the pharmacy to have a nice view.

6- Orthez-Biron Leisure Center

It has existed for more than thirty years, renowned for its fine sandy beach, its shaded park, its children's play area and its 40-hectare lake. Ideal in summer for swimming, it is supervised in August and July for safe lounging. Picnic tables, multisports and petanque grounds, deck chairs, water fountains and book boxes, everything is provided for a lazy day.

7- The Y Lake

Located below the castle of Moncade, it is a great opportunity to relax after the visit. With 2.2 km of promenade and the passage of the Gave de Pau river, it is the ideal place for swimming, fishing and walking. Insect shelters, nest boxes and arboretum, the place is preserved and brings together many species of trees and birds.

8- Terra Adventure

It's a fun and entertaining way to discover Orthez and its surroundings. Thanks to an application, take part in a treasure hunt with friends or family in Béarn, and let yourself be guided by an original walk that combines sport and nature. Riddles, clues, routes and anecdotes, it's up to you to find your way.

9- Markets

This is a real tradition when you want to discover a city and its riches. In Orthez, the best known and most impressive is that of Tuesday, which brings together many artisans and producers. Food, specialties, clothes, plants and flowers, smells mingle with colors for a moment of pure pleasure in Orthez. From November to March, take part in the foie gras market where ducks, carcasses and livers are added to the stalls.

10- Canoeing in Orthez

An essential activity when it comes to rivers, Orthez is no exception and offers you activities in summer on calm and slightly agitated waters or on white waters. In a small committee or in a group, sail along the Gave de Pau on a canoe or a kayak, boats for 1 or 2 people. At your paddles, it's time to row.

The visit to Orthez ends on this aquatic note. You are now ready for a beautiful excursion in Béarn, with many addresses to visit and many activities to do to discover the region. Do not stay idle in Orthez and its surroundings.

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