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Tourism in Béarn and the Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Between mountains, valleys and characterful villages, Béarn and the Pyrénées-Atlantiques offer tourism rich in nature, culture, gastronomy and traditions. An authentic region to explore in all seasons during your stay at a family-friendly sports resort in the Pyrenees.
A taste for the local
Must-See Sites Between Béarn and the Basque Country – Around the Domaine Lapédagne in Arette
From the DOMAINE LAPÉDAGNE in Arette, set out to explore the most beautiful sites between Béarn and the Basque Country—a region rich in landscapes, heritage, and exceptional villages.
Nearby, the spectacular Fort du Portalet impresses with its fortress clinging to the mountainside and its suspension bridges over the Gave d’Aspe, facing the Chemin de la Mature on the GR10. Not far from there, the fascinating Grotte de la Verna houses the world’s largest illuminated underground chamber, in the heart of the La Pierre Saint-Martin massif.
Lovers of the great outdoors will enjoy the resort of La Pierre Saint-Martin and the spectacular panoramic views of the Cirque de Lescun, iconic landscapes of the Pyrenees.
When it comes to cultural heritage, the town of Oloron-Sainte-Marie—which holds the “City and Region of Art and History” designation—is well worth a visit, as is Pau and its famous Château de Pau, the birthplace of King Henry IV.
Also nearby, the magnificent Ossau Valley is home to the famous Artouste Train, which offers exceptional panoramic views of the Pyrenean peaks.
In the Basque Country, discover the village of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the gateway to the Camino de Santiago, the spectacular Holzarte Footbridge, and the majestic Iraty Forest, one of the largest beech forests in Europe.
From the DOMAINE LAPÉDAGNE in Arette, explore the must-see attractions of Béarn and the Basque Country, where you’ll find breathtaking natural scenery, rich heritage, and adventures in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Family and cultural visits in Béarn
Béarn is packed with cultural and family attractions. Discover the Château de Pau, birthplace of Henri IV, or immerse yourself in thehistory of the Musketeers at the Maison du Barétous in Arette (Aramis was born in the valley of the same name). Stroll through typical villages. Visit local farms, cheese dairies and artisan workshops. Between heritage, nature and traditions, young and old share enriching moments in a warm and authentic setting in the heart of the Béarn Pyrenees.
Meeting in the mountains
Agrotourism
In the Aspe and Barétous valleys, agrotourism (pastoralism) offers an authentic immersion in Pyrenean rural life. Meet passionate breeders, visit family farms, shepherd’s huts in summer pastures and discover how ewe’s milk cheese is made. Take part in milking, taste local produce and explore unspoilt landscapes. A blend of know-how, conviviality and respect for nature, these experiences will delight those in search of genuine encounters and living traditions in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Béarn Cuisine – Authentic Flavors at Domaine Lapédagne in the village of Arette, between Béarn and the Basque Country
At DOMAINE LAPÉDAGNE in Arette, discover the full richness of Béarn’s gastronomy—a hearty cuisine that reflects the exceptional terroir at the heart of the Béarn Pyrenees. Here, culinary traditions and local products come together to offer an authentic gourmet experience, rooted in the region’s history and culture.
Among the must-try specialties is the famous Béarnaise garbure, an iconic peasant soup made with seasonal vegetables, beans, and confit. The Béarn region is also renowned for its artisanal cured meats: andouille, duck sausage, blood sausage, and the delicious duck confit—a true symbol of the cuisine of southwestern France.
Lovers of exceptional products will also appreciate veal from mother-reared calves—a tender and flavorful meat—as well as farmhouse cheeses from the Pyrenees, made from sheep’s, cow’s, or goat’s milk, or a blend thereof, sourced from summer pastures and mountain farms.
It’s impossible to discuss Béarn cuisine without mentioning the famous Jurançon wines, produced near Pau and already enjoyed at the court of King Henry IV. These white wines—whether dry or sweet—pair perfectly with local specialties and embody the winemaking excellence of Béarn.
The region also abounds in local craft beers, mountain honey, and a wide variety of regional specialties to enjoy on site or take home to extend the culinary experience.
At the DOMAINE LAPÉDAGNE restaurant, these locally sourced products—grown using sustainable farming practices —take center stage in authentic and flavorful dishes. Each dish tells a story: the story of a region, its producers, and its culinary traditions.
At DOMAINE LAPÉDAGNE in Arette, Béarn cuisine is an experience in itself: authentic, welcoming, and full of flavors to share.
And for those who love outdoor adventures, you’ll find a wide varietyof activities to enjoy near our family-friendly sports resort in Arette.
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