Uncover Ozenx-montestrucq in the Pyrenees Atlantiques

Linking the two capitals of Béarn, Orthez the old, to Pau the new, by bike, might seem audacious in view of the mileage; but this ride turns out to be a beautiful stroll through the valley of the Gave de Pau. The variety of the landscapes encountered and the good cyclability of the itinerary make that the cities and villages stages go by one by one without any hitch. We start by visiting the rural Béarn up to Mourenx, from the lakes of the Biron barthes to the peaceful valley of the Geu, then it is time to stroll along the banks of the Gave de Pau. From Tarsacq to Laroin, a comfortable greenway allows you to walk along the river that has just come down from the mountains, giving you the opportunity to appreciate its specific environments and its aquatic birdlife. One enters the city of Pau without almost ever having to face the traffic.

This stage ensures the junction between the Gave de Pau and the Gave d'Oloron, but also between the old town of Orthez and the historical "sauveté" that is Sauveterre-de-Béarn, with its remarkable concentration of heritage treasures. Undulating from one hill to another, the route also crosses the Orion Hospital, on land that has been used for centuries to welcome pilgrims.

This pleasant walk, marked out with interpretation desks, allows you to discover the main historical monuments of the medieval town of Orthez: the Hôtel de la Lune, the Pont Vieux, the Maison Jeanne d'Albret, the Church of Saint Pierre, the Château Moncade. In the Middle Ages, Béarn was at the heart of all the events that marked this period: the pilgrimage, the crusades, the creation of bastides... And Orthez is the capital! The Béarnaise dynasty of the Foix Béarn family (Fébus) dreamed then of a free country going from Orthez to Foix. Later it was Jeanne d'Albret, mother of Henri IV, who gave Béarn Calvinism as the state religion. This walk also offers a variety of bucolic atmospheres: the banks of the Gave, the Moncade vineyard which offers a view of the town, the Coudane wood and its arboretum, and the Grecq lake, a space dedicated to biodiversity.

This stage promises great surprises, with the discovery of the Béarn nature, a beautiful mix of forest and agricultural areas, the passage to Sauvelade Abbey and the crossing of the bastioned city of Navarrenx.

A short stage, exclusively on secondary roads, links Salies-de-Béarn and Orthez, two important cities in the history of Béarn. The route immediately rises above the hills of Salies and then turns into the valley of the Gave de Pau, a powerful river fed by the snow and springs of the Pyrenees. The V81 now goes up its course, today towards Orthez, tomorrow towards Pau, the day after tomorrow towards Lourdes. The populations have invested for a long time these open places and favourable to the agriculture. Thus, on the way, you will be able to discover the contemporary cultures of kiwis and to appreciate the richness of the built heritage; by a light detour towards the castle and the portal of the church of Bellocq, or within the beautiful Béarnaise houses of Bérenx and its old mills. Sainte-Suzanne already announces the proximity of Orthez.

This superb loop between the Gaves de Pau and Oloron is full of interest. The number of castles, bastides and abbeys enchants the route. On the cyclo plan, the very hilly profile with difficult climbs on country roads requires a good training.

This hike offers walkers a remarkable diversity of landscapes. Departing from Salies-de-Béarn, it takes in farms, forests and ponds, all set against the backdrop of the Pyrenees mountain range.

From Salies-de-Béarn to the Eiffel bridge at Castagnède, on the Gave d'Oloron, a greenway follows the former route of a railway. Flat and mostly shaded, very colourful in autumn, it is particularly suitable for family walks. While strolling under the oaks, you may, who knows, hear the black woodpecker or see a titmouse near the barthes of Salies.

This is an ideal family hike to discover Savoie's heritage. From the Renaissance-style town hall to the heights of the Castera district, the walk offers walkers an enchanting architectural and landscaped setting.

This part of the itinerary of the via Lemoviciensis (way of Vézelay) undertakes a long crossing between Sauveterre-de-Béarn and Ostabat, in Navarre. The historical discoveries are scattered all along the route (Legend bridge, Guinarthe, Pausasac milestone, Saint-Palais), even becoming very frequent at the end of the day (Gibraltar stele, Soyarza chapel, Harambeltz church). A great wealth of heritage, ideal to get to the end of a stage that is finally quite long and with a marked relief.

Follow the Baron d?Arros, appointed lieutenant-general by Jeanne d?Albret. In the course of his long life, he met five regents of the Kingdom of Navarre, and eight regents of the Kingdom of France. This is an opportunity to explore the rise of Protestantism, the Italian campaigns, the European Renaissance and the evolution of warfare, while discovering the habits and customs of life in Béarn and the daily grind of civil war. Thanks to its position, it will also reveal many anecdotes about the regents of this dark and little-known era.

This rental is situated in the charming village of Castetbon with its magnificent views of the Pyrenean mounts and the Basque Country. Garden shelter to store bikes or fishing tackle. Fenced garden ideal for children's games. On ground floor, fitted out in 2007 with all mod cons for family holidays

In the heart of the village of Laàs you will find the "Auberge de la Fontaine", the purest expression of what sense of welcome and rural conviviality can be. You feel warmly welcomed, the cooking being generous and very tasty. The 5 rooms were entirely renovated in 2008 and are spacious. The family suite can very comfortably accomodate 4 persons and the other attic rooms can host 2 to 3 persons and are all air-conditionned. During your stay at the inn you will certainly go and visit the Castle and the property of Laàs, go rafting or salmon or trout fishing on the Gave d'Oloron (Gave being a name given to Pyrenean mountain streams). It is worth noting that the restaurant is famous all over the region for the quality of its cooking. Beware, this hotel could make an addict out of you!

The village of Berenx, on the Béarn hills, is situated between Orthez and Salies-de-Béarn. Labelled 3 chimneys (stars) this hotel offers 19 rooms and 3 seminar rooms. You will be seduced by the local cuisine and the wine list served by the restaurant in the dining room with apparent stone walls or on the shady terrace. You will most certainly enjoy the swimming pool during the summer season.

In a warm atmosphere marked by the charisma and elegance of the Moorish style, the "Les Bains de la Mude" thermal spa invites you to well-being and relaxation thanks to the unique virtues of Salies-de-Béarn thermal spring water. Rich in minerals and trace elements, and with a unique salt concentration (290g/l), Salies-de-Béarn thermal spring water is an exceptional natural resource for well-being and beauty. Recognized for its benefits in the treatment of gynecological pathologies, it is also beneficial to your skin thanks to the presence of "halophilic" anti-aging bacteria, effective in preventing and delaying aging. Our wellness treatments draw their strength from the benefits of salt and the most virtuous things nature has to offer to guarantee vitality and soothing. Rejuvenate at your own pace, for a few minutes or for the duration of your stay.

Salies-de-Béarn is situated halway between Pau, the Basque Coast and the Spanish border and is facing the Pyrenean range. The property is located approximately 4 kms from the city centre and the thermal baths. This old mansion, typical for the Béarn region, hosts 4 guest rooms, labelled 3 ears (stars) by Gites de Frances. Dinners at the Table d'Hôte and breakfast are served either in the dining room, near the large fireplace, or on the terrace. The mansion has been owned for several generations by a family of nurserymen who have laid out the parc with various plant species, making it a very pleasing to the eye place facing the Pyrenean range.

Navarrenx is a 16th century walled town, ideally situated in the heart of the Béarn des Gaves region (Gave being a name given to Pyrenean mountain streams), at equal distance from the Pyrenean range, from Pau and Bayonne. The Hotel du Commerce is situated in the heart of Navarrenx, Labelled 2 chimneys (stars) this hotel offers 10 comfortable rooms. You will appreciate the table, where fresh local products are priviledged. Breakfast is served very early for the anglers, picnic baskets can also be provided.

Ideally located on the borders of the Landes, Béarn and Basque Country, the Bienabe gite guarantees you a calm and rejuvenating stay in the heart of the countryside, one hour away from the ocean and the mountains. We set the scene: a large swimming pool (10mx5m) to share with the owners open from June to September, a beautiful park with a direct view on the hills and the Pyrenees in good weather, donkeys and horses in the middle of 3 hectares of pasture with two training paddocks and 5 boxes for your own animals, a gym with fitness equipment ... The house also offers you all the necessary comfort in a refined and warm atmosphere mixing wood, beautiful frame, high ceiling and sober and clear colors. An essential step to discover all year long, the time of vacations, of a professional displacement or of a cure in Salies de Béarn...

Welcome to the Caribous Landais for a stay at the gates of the Basque Country and Bearn. The property of 16 hectares is quiet, accessible by a dead end road. In this hilly countryside between sea and mountain, the change of scenery is guaranteed, the total resourcefulness. Less than an hour from the beaches and ski resorts, there are many opportunities for slow tourism and sports activities. The site benefits from a direct view of the Pyrenees in a rural and forest environment. Private trails can be used on foot or by mountain bike (secure storage space available free of charge). We will also be happy to advise you on road trips in the region. The swimming pool, open as long as the weather permits, and the 2-4 seat sauna, upon reservation, allow you to enjoy a wellness and relaxation break.

Welcome to the Caribous Landais, in a gite decorated on the motorcycle theme, for a stay at the gates of the Basque Country and Bearn. The property of 16 hectares is quiet, accessible by a dead end road. In this hilly countryside between sea and mountain, the change of scenery is guaranteed, the total resourcefulness. Less than an hour from the beaches and ski resorts, there are many opportunities for slow tourism and sports activities. The site benefits from a direct view of the Pyrenees in a rural and forest environment. Private trails can be used on foot or by mountain bike (secure storage space available free of charge). We will also be happy to advise you on road trips in the region.

On the road to Compostela, about ten kilometres from Sauveterre-de-Béarn, this picnic area will provide rest and strength to brave pilgrims, but also to all visitors or people wishing to take a break Children will find there something to let off steam thanks to the various outdoor games on offer.

The recreation base at Lake Biorn is accessible all year round. Numerous activities are offered to you: swimming area, orientation course, playgrounds, picnic areas, fishing, aquatic activities...

At the entrance to the town of Orthez, the city of Gaston fébus, lake fitted out in a leisure centre. A set of more than 100 hectares around the 40 ha lake. Supervised swimming in season, fine sand beach, water skiing. Tennis and volleyball courts, ping-pong table and sports course around the lake (3600 m). Fishing, bird watching, walks. Shaded picnic area with games for children, restaurant with terrace overlooking the lake.

Situated in the heart of the countryside, on the ridge road, you will find a picnic table at the exit of the village. It is shaded and offers a breathtaking view of the hillsides.

In the hills of Loubieng, a small Béarnaise village close to Orthez, the birthplace of Gaston Fébus, Rose, a farmer and Philippe, a beekeeper, welcome visitors to the farm and are happy to talk about their professions. There’s a range of specialty products which are available to both try and purchase, honey, fresh pollen, speciality cakes - all made from the produce of the hives. Visitors can also learn about pollen providing flora and other environmental issues from video montages.

Former capital of Béarn, Orthez is a city located between Pau and Bayonne. Its foundation dates back to the Middle Ages and its walls have been crossed by some great events in the History of France The dungeon of the Moncade castle bears witness to the ambition of Gaston Fébus, a 14th century lord, to make Béarn a Pyrenean state. The dungeon, which stands at an altitude of 110 metres, is the highest point in the town. Going down the rue Moncade, on one of the Compostela Routes, the 14 rue de l'Horloge houses the courtyard of the Hôtel de la Lune, a beautiful medieval residence from the 15th century. Continue your orthézienne walk in the Bourg Vieux and push the door of the Jeanne d'Albret Museum to understand the influence of Protestantism on Béarn. Then walk down the street towards the Pont Vieux (Old Bridge) which proudly spans the Gave de Pau. Gaston Fébus made this bridge the emble

Within the prestigious setting of the Maison Jeanne d’Albret (16th century), the museum invites you to discover 4 centuries of Bearn history, the origins of the Reform until the start of the 20th century. The exposition (photographs, engravers, furnishings and rare objects...) retrace the major events of Protestantism and evoke grand figures such as Henri IV, Catherine de Bourbon, Elisee Reclus, Albert Cadier...Guided and non guided visits for all ages. Instructive guide for children.

Beautiful Béarnais house dating from the 18th century that was the residence of the poet Francis Jammes from 1897 to 1907. Presentation of the life and works of the poet (educational charts). Book sales. Large manuscript base made available to researchers. Guided or non-guided visits

In Orthez, in the Roger Lapassade space, at the top of the Parking du Foirail, the association Per Noste works for the defence and promotion of the occitan language and culture in Béarn. A wide range of works are proposed: novels, poetry, theater, history... For a few years, Per Noste wishes to conquer a larger public, especially young people with translations of the famous Harry Potter but also comic strips.

The church of Saint Pierre d'Orthez dates from the 13th century. It is the choir, in Gothic style, which is the oldest part, the nave was built a century later, it is from the 14th century. According to the legend, it is said that it is thanks to the fabulous treasure of Gaston Fébus that this church was completed. Built outside the city wall, it had its own fortified enclosure which was attached to the city. The church may have been linked to a primitive ecclesiastical village To see inside the 19th century stained glass windows, sculptures, keystones, a grisaille by the Bayonne painter Léon Bonnat representing the decollation of the first martyr St Denis and the organs of Aristide Cavaillé Coll.

Located in Ozenx-Montestrucq, a small village close to Orthez, the inn favours the short circuit with quality and local products, we cook in front of you our gastronomic, authentic and gourmet menus (Japanese table of Béarn) accompanied by an exceptional card of 50 wines selected directly from the winegrowers and all this in a friendly, warm and thematic atmosphere. The private restaurant guarantees you the sanitary measures in front of Covid 19. Totally isolated in the nature with a panoramic view, you will find the comfort of a quality inn.

Bérangère, a passionate cook, proposes dishes that are similar to her own. She cooks only with fresh and local products and proposes every day a vegetarian menu and an omnivorous menu but also dishes for gluten intolerants or vegans. In a sincere and joyful approach, Bérangère elaborates different recipes to please as many people as possible with a lot of creativity and finesse in the realization of her dishes. She cooks in the morning and delivers at home and also in companies, the evening meal is also delivered at noon. Every week, find the menu on her website, an original cuisine of local products, you will only have to warm up and put your feet under the table!

Near Orthez, in Biron, La Boucherie is a restaurant whose concept is to offer the finest cuts of meat in a modern yet traditional atmosphere. Salads, burgers, rillettes, terrines and carpaccios share the menu with minced steaks, rib steak, onglet, bavette and many other butcher's cuts. But that's not all... La Boucherie also showcases local producers with an extensive wine list and a focus on short distribution channels.

The pleasant setting of the "Le Louisabella" restaurant in Biron is ideal for relaxation and conviviality. The terrace overlooking the lake offers a panoramic view to enjoy a beautiful sunset while savoring your meal. The interior of the restaurant, decorated with wood and plants, creates a warm, authentic atmosphere. You'll be able to enjoy a variety of tapas that will delight your taste buds (frogs' legs, squid in parsley sauce, fried smelts...) accompanied by exotic and refreshing cocktails. Whether you're a fan of seafood, fish or meat, the menu offers a diverse selection to suit all tastes (pike-perch goujonnette with beurre blanc, hake steak/coconut cream, island-flavored chicken fricassee...), but you can also choose the lunchtime menu. Our dinners are regularly enlivened by live music and dancing.

In the city centre, the restaurant Le Bon Coin offers traditional and family cuisine. Nearby, discover the Orthézien heritage, the 13th century Old Bridge, a place of passage for the pilgrims of Santiago de Compostela with its tower and its uneven arches and the Moncade Castle where the Viscount of Béarn, Gaston Fébus, lived.

In a beautiful fully glazed dining room giving onto the place d'Armesis this brasserie of the same name which is a real local institution run by Céline who's kept the family flame going. Here the menu changes with the season, a good part is made in the family kitchen; seasonal salads, red meats, fresh fish and pork all the fundamentals that you find every lunchtime.

The Corral Café is in the historic centre of the ‘Cité de Fébus’ district in Orthez and in front of the ‘Place d’Armes’ square. It has been entirely renovated and the first floor dining room with its tasteful contemporary decor has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Kevin provides traditional food featuring regional specialities. These include hake in chorizo butter or salmon grilled on the plancha with pesto, duck confit and foie gras served with homemade brioche.

Close to the station in Orthez and in the old town, on the departmental road to Pau, the restaurant in the Terminus hotel provides traditional, family style cooking. The Maison Christian, a beautiful 18th century property is close by. The house was inhabited by the poet Francis Jammes and houses an exhibition of his life and works.

The chef offers a small menu of fresh produce. The indispensables: velouté of vegetables, marinated salmon, oysters, tapas, cold meats, baby squid, peppers, fish straight from the fish auctions, andouillettes, Occitan lamb. Desserts are home-made Dance evenings and sporting events on screen throughout the year. And all in a very trendy atmosphere whilst keeping its original art deco look.

Welcome to La Maison, the emblematic Orthézien restaurant transformed into a warm and friendly place with a vintage and cosy decor. Discover our gourmet, tasty and inventive cuisine. Fresh produce is selected by the chef from various local partners. The lunch menu changes weekly, and the evening menu is largely made up of "sharing" plates, and is also served on Saturday and Sunday lunchtimes. The wine list is varied, inspired by travels and encounters.

Lots of charm in this renovated house that subtly combines the cachet of the old with today's amenities. Independent gîte (condemned barn) Ground floor: Fitted kitchen opening onto covered terrace (oven, microwave, gas hob, fridge, dishwasher), living room, lounge area (fireplace/insert, TV), office area (Wifi internet box and telephone to landlines in France). Cellar (washing machine, freezer), wc. First floor: 3 bedrooms (2 beds 140, 2 beds 90), beds made for your arrival, bathroom linen provided. Bathroom/wc. Living room relaxation library (books, sofa BZ). Vast grounds (closed by a gate on the road side) open on the woods and meadows of the domain (11 ha bordered by the river Saleys). Pleasant covered terrace, garden furniture, barbecue.

New chalet, built in 2024, all wood, south-facing, unobstructed view of the countryside. Air-conditioned, comfortable cottage. Functional layout. Nicely decorated, cocooning interior.

Functional gîte in a detached house adjoining the owners' farm (around twenty Blondes d'Aquitaine cows + cereal and corn crops). Sleeps 4/6. Ground floor: - Equipped kitchenette (electric and microwave ovens, 3 gas hobs, 1 electric hob, fridge-freezer, dishwasher), dining area - Living room (wood-burning stove, TV). WIFI connection. - Shower room/wc. Storeroom (washing machine, tumble dryer). Upstairs: 3 bedrooms (3 x 140cm beds), shower room/wc. Bed linen provided, beds made on arrival. Electric heating extra. free 1st flare-up of wood for stove. Enclosed terrace, enclosed garden with trees and flowers, garden furniture. Barbecue. Farm cottage (working farm)

In Ozenx-Montestrucq, 10 km south of Orthez, Christophe welcomes you to an old Béarn-style farmhouse in a privileged, secluded and peaceful setting. Domaine Hourcabis has two gîtes for 4 and 6 people, which can be made private for up to 10 people. Come and discover this place for your family holidays, with your friends, for moments of relaxation, leisure and conviviality, with one watchword: recharge your batteries. It's also a place in harmony with nature and respect for the environment (solar hot water, photovoltaic panels, rainwater recovery, heat pumps, sorting, eco-friendly cleaning products, etc.). Outside, the terrace is sheltered by an arbour and offers a remarkable panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and the Pyrenees mountain range.

Domaine de Tilh is located on the heights of Loubieng, in the heart of 40 hectares of parkland, in a calm and peaceful setting 10 minutes from Orthez, between Pau and Biarritz. You will be welcomed into an 18th-century manor house with historic charm and stunning view over the Béarn countryside and the Pyrenees. The spacious, light-filled rooms combine simplicity and character, with their exposed beams and stonework adding a warm, authentic touch to the estate. Take advantage of this idyllic setting to recharge your batteries and discover the Béarn region, its mountains, lush green landscapes and gastronomy.

In Loubieng, 10 minutes from Orthez, close to Pau and Biarritz, Domaine de Tilh welcomes you to an 18th century manor house in the heart of 40 hectares of parkland. You will be seduced by the beauty of this building with its historic charm. You can enjoy the pleasant, tastefully renovated "suite d'Agathe", with its breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and the hills of Béarn. Breakfast is served on the outdoor terrace or in the Domaine's beautiful dining room.

In Ozenx-Montestrucq, 10 km from Orthez, Christophe welcomes you to an old Béarn-style farmhouse in a privileged, secluded and peaceful setting. Domaine Hourcabis comprises two gîtes for 4 and 6 people, which can be made private for up to 10 people. Come and discover this place for your holidays with family or friends, for moments of relaxation with one watchword: recharge your batteries. It's also a place in harmony with nature and respect for the environment (solar hot water, photovoltaic panels, rainwater recovery, heat pumps, sorting, eco-friendly cleaning products...). To the south, your terrace, sheltered by an arbour, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and the Pyrenees mountain range. You can enjoy your own private garden bordered by olive trees, with direct access to the swimming pool.

Situated high on the Béarnais hills, "La Bergerie" is an estate dating from the 18th century which is completely on its own and authentic. A few minutes from Orthez, Gaston Phoebus' town, you have a panoramic view of the Pyrenees. Unwind, relax, pamper yourself .... these are the watchwords at "La Bergerie" chambre d'hôtes. Set in a convivial, warm-hearted atmosphere, Sabine invites you quite simply to enjoy the good life. "Please feel completely at home !!" ». "La Bergerie" offers 3 charming bedrooms with all the comfort you could hope for with separate bathrooms and toilets. In winter make the most of the southern sunshine by the swimming pool with a background of the Pyrenees. As for gastronomy, "La Bergerie" offers authentic cuisine in generous portions based on local farm products. Foie gras with figs, garbure, wild boar stew.... so many specialities to try!