Navarrenx and Béarn des Gaves

The Gave, the name given in the region to this beautiful torrent that descends from the nearby high mountains, is omnipresent here. Coming from the Aspe valley, or from that of Ossau to become the Gave d'Oloron, it creates a natural geographical separation between the neighboring Basque Country and this historic region of Béarn.

Map of Navarrenx and Béarn des Gaves

Here, during your visit, you will discover a historical heritage of the highest order, at the bend of pretty medieval cities perfectly preserved. We had a particular crush on Sauveterre-de-Béarn. Built on a rocky spur, the city deserves more than just a stop. However, you will also appreciate Navarrenx, fortified city, or Salies-de-Béarn, with its old-fashioned charm and gentle art of living. Do not forget all these small villages such as Aren or Laàs where life is so good. The gaves, tumultuous, capricious and which sometimes overflow their banks, are an ideal playground for practicing or discovering white water sports : kayaking, rafting, canyoning or sport fishing.

Rafting on the Gave d'Oloron, with Rafting 64 in Navarrenx

Salies de Béarn, the salt of Béarn

A pretty little spa town, Salies-de-Béarn enjoys happy days in a peaceful atmosphere. As in any spa town, people appreciate the tranquility of the place, except during the Salt Festival, the second weekend in September. Built on a marshy area, rich in salt, Salies has always known how to take advantage of this White Gold. The inhabitants of the commune have also developed a system giving them property titles on this raw material, passed down from father to son.

Today, the Salt Festivals recall this rich natural heritage every year. A salt museum also allows you to deepen your knowledge on this theme, as does the Saltworks Museum Center, which tells you about the extraction of this white gold.

Salies-de-Béarn is today very well known for its thermalism which has made the modern fortune of the city. However, it is still a story of salt, since it is the salt water which makes the success of the thermal baths that you can visit.

Salies-de-Béarn, a pleasant town where you can stroll to explore the heritage and learn all about salt

Saveterre-de-Béarn

Sauveterre-de-Béarn is a very beautiful medieval hilltop town, dating from the 11th century. It is one of the most beautiful villages in Béarn.

Come and stroll there to admire the remains, at the foot of the Gave d'Oloron. It is located on the way to Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle on the Vézelay route and its natural environment makes it very attractive for a stay in Béarn.

Discover the Saint-André church, listed as a historical monument. Go to the terrace which enjoys a beautiful panorama. Continue to the Pont de la Légende, also listed, which overlooks the turquoise river. Only an arch and a gate remain, but it's worth the detour!

Sauveterre-de-Béarn is surrounded by defensive ramparts and you can also admire the 33m high Monréal tower, a former keep. Continue to the island of Glère, opposite the village, with an educational walk. A wild place in the middle of nature and accessible by a bridge near the campsite.

Sauveterre-de-Béarn, the legendary bridge over the opal-coloured Gave

Laàs, the village with many facets

A small village from the 12th century, Laàs went through several states before becoming a charming holiday destination, which we know today. Lordship, then barony, then first principality of Béarn in 2014, proclamation made by the municipal council).

There you will discover the Serbat museum in an old noble house with pretty gardens. The castle of Laàs is now a tourist site that will please the whole family: the Castle of Enigmas. An original way to enjoy the heritage while having fun. There is also an escape game in the castle for fans of this type of modern adventure.

Laàs Castle - photo Béarn des Gaves Tourist Office Cc BY SA 4.0

Navarrenx, the fortified city

Navarrenx is definitely worth a stop. It is the only fortified city of its kind in the region and the hardness of its structure contrasts with the green environment that surrounds it. In the middle of it flows the beautiful Gave d'Oloron.

On the paths of Santiago de Compostela, Navarrenx offers a large number of accommodations in gîtes and pilgrims' menus are de rigueur. Stroll through this green resort and appreciate its riches such as its 1.6 km of ramparts. Its geographical location is interesting for exploring the region.

Walk in Navarrenx - Photos @ Lesley Williamson

Les Gaves, a mecca for sports and leisure activities

The Gave d'Oloron and its tributaries are a prime location for trout and salmon fishing. They form a first-rate hydrographic network, mainly classified in the first category. The omnipresence of these legendary fish attracts professionals, amateurs and enthusiasts to the edges of these sometimes choppy waters.

The Gave d'Oloron is also the longest salmon river in France. Fishing Guide instructors will be able to share their knowledge, techniques and favorite fishing spots with you. To do this, visit their website. You will become true fishing enthusiasts after your visit to the Gave d'Oloron.

But, the gaves are also very suitable for other activities such as rafting and canoeing which you can practice around Sauveterre and Navarrenx in a more or less sporty way.

Béarn des Gaves for nature and sports lovers