Birthplace of Henry IV, this French city in the Pyrenees foothills was once Béarn's capital. Home to universities and a rugby team, it sits by the Gave de Pau river.
Pau, a city in southwestern France, captivates visitors with its panoramic views of the Pyrenees mountains. From the 1.8-kilometer Boulevard des Pyrénées, you can gaze at the majestic mountain range while enjoying a coffee at a local café. The city's rich history comes alive at the Château de Pau, the birthplace of King Henry IV, while its numerous parks and gardens provide calm spaces for relaxation. Positioned between the mountains and the sea, Pau serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the varied landscapes of the region.
Location and Geography of Pau
Pau sits at the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains in southwestern France, about 50 kilometers from the Spanish border. The city's elevated position on a plateau provides clear views of the surrounding landscape. From Pau, you can easily reach both the Atlantic coast and the Pyrenees ski resorts within an hour's drive, allowing you to experience the region's natural beauty.
Climate and Weather in Pau
Pau experiences a mild climate year-round due to its location between the mountains and the sea. Winters are generally cool and wet, with average temperatures around 5°C (41°F), while summers are warm and relatively dry, with temperatures averaging 20°C (68°F). This pleasant weather has made Pau a popular winter destination since the 19th century, drawing visitors from across Europe and beyond.
Exploring Pau's Main Sights
The Boulevard des Pyrénées is Pau's most famous landmark. As you stroll along this 1.8-kilometer promenade, you'll find numerous cafes and viewpoints where you can pause to admire the Pyrenees. Another key site is the Château de Pau, a medieval fortress turned Renaissance palace. Today, it houses a national museum where you can view a collection of tapestries and period furnishings, including the turtle shell that was reportedly used as King Henry IV's cradle.
Green Spaces and Parks in Pau
Pau has over 750 hectares of parks and gardens. You can explore Beaumont Park, a large English-style garden with winding paths and exotic plants. The gardens surrounding the Château de Pau offer a calm retreat in the heart of the city, where you can relax on benches shaded by centuries-old trees.
Cultural Activities and Events in Pau
As a university city, Pau has an active cultural scene. You can attend lectures, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year at venues like the Zénith de Pau or the Palais Beaumont. Sports fans might want to visit during the Grand Prix de Pau, an annual automobile race that takes place on the city streets in May, or when the Tour de France passes through the city in July.
Food and Markets in Pau
Pau's culinary scene showcases the flavors of southwestern France. Start your day at Les Halles, the city's main food market, where you'll find local produce, cheeses, and meats. Try some regional specialties, such as garbure (a hearty soup with cabbage and confit duck) or poule au pot (a chicken dish that was reportedly King Henry IV's favorite).
Getting Around Pau
You can walk to many sights in Pau's city center. For longer journeys, use the city's bus network or rent a bicycle from one of the many bike-sharing stations. Pau also has its own airport, Pau-Pyrénées Airport, which connects to several French and European cities. The train station offers connections to major cities like Paris, Bordeaux, and Toulouse.
Day Trips from Pau
From Pau, you can take a day trip to the nearby Pyrenees for hiking or skiing, depending on the season. In summer, hike the Pic du Midi d'Ossau for stunning views, or ski at stations like Gourette in winter. The Atlantic coast, with beach towns like Biarritz, is about an hour's drive away. Wine lovers can visit the nearby Jurançon wine region, known for its sweet white wines made from Petit and Gros Manseng grapes.
