The 8 most beautiful villages in the Bearn

If you go to the south-west of France, don't miss visiting the most beautiful villages in Béarn!

Le Béarn is a former sovereign principality that is now part of the department of Pyrenees-Atlantiques . At the foothills of the mountains and not far from the Atlantic Ocean, this region is an ideal step for a holiday between nature and culture.

Its millennial history is part of its territory, through many medieval fortified cities and beautiful hamlets on the path of Santiago de Compostela .

So, to help you prepare your trip, we have selected for you the most beautiful villages in Béarn.

1. Navarrenx

This pretty village of Béarn has the peculiarity of being the oldest bastioned city in France. The walls were built between 1538 and 1547, almost a century before the first works of architect Vauban. Long 1 657 meters and reaching 10 meters high, they release a feeling of power that will not leave you indifferent.

Since its fortification, the village of Navarrenx has never been defeated! During a ballad inside the enclosure, you can admire the beam, the military fountain or the arsenal that could house up to 30,000 barrels.

Navarrenx is also the Gave d’Oloron, a majestic river that runs along the ramparts. It is suitable for water activities such as kayaking or rafting. The village is also known as the salmon capital. These fish go up the river every year and give rise to mythical fishing and cooking competitions.

Finally, Navarrenx is on the way to Santiago de Compostela, on the path of Puy-en-Velay. The city is one of the most beautiful stages for pilgrims. Here we find a warm welcome and the possibility to rest in an exceptional historical environment.

2. Salies-de-Béarn

Salies-de-Béarn is named after the source of salt water that flows into its territory. On the village square, watch the wild boar fountain, symbol of the city.

The legend says that an injured boar would have gone to death in the marshes of the city and would have been found in a good state of conservation several days later. The inhabitants would thus have discovered the salty source that made the reputation of this village of Béarn. Many tourist attractions are related to white gold, such as the salt museum or crypt on the place of Bayaà.

You can also visit the spa area, with its buildings dating from the Belle Époque, its maureque-style baths of 1857 or its casino. And if the heart tells you, book your spa in this pleasant village of Béarn, as many dukes and duchess did before you...

3. Lescun

On the foothills of the Aspe Valley, a few 900 metres above sea level, one of the most beautiful villages in the Béarn region. Visit Lescun, in the heart of a circus surmounted by the mountains of Ansabère, the Pic d’Anie and the Orgues de Camplong.

This quiet hamlet is an ideal base for exploring the Pyrenees Bearnese or simply rest in the heart of nature. You will be surrounded by majestic cliffs and impetuous torrents falling from the tops. Many hiking trails allow you to discover the surroundings, for beginner walkers like seasoned hikers. Equipped with a pair of twins, go to meet the isards, vultures and marmots.

Finally, visit the small church of the XVIth of this village of Béarn, which is located on the tolosane path of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle.

4. Sauveterre de Béarn

Built on a promontory, this village of Béarn dominates the river of the Gave d’Oloron. In the 14th century, this millennium city was one of the largest towns in the region.

First intended to be a refuge, it quickly became a trade hub and a respected strong place in the Bearn. This is reflected in its many medieval constructions, which are contemplated from the bridge of the Legend, classified as a historic monument.

Let yourself be aware of the many stories related to this bridge by admiring the river below, the Monreal Tower and the ramparts. From the terrace of the church of Saint-André, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the region, with the chain of the Pyrenees as a backdrop.

Around the village, many activities await you, such as kayaking, trout or salmon fishing. Another option is the educational path of the island of Glère. And if you pass through this village of Béarn on the third weekend of August, don’t miss the fair of the Blonde d’Aquitaine. This breed of cow that had almost disappeared is honoured by the farmers of the region through numerous animations and contests.

5. Sarrance

This beautiful village of Béarn is blotted in the heart of the Aspe valley. On both sides of Rue du Haut, admire the beautiful houses with slate roofs of the 17th and 18th centuries. Go through the fountain, wash it, the monastery and the church of Notre-Dame de la Pierre. She was named after the legend of a bull that would have been found by her shepherd near a statue of the 12th century Virgin.

All around the village, forests cling to the slopes of the mountains, offering a playground perfect for hikers. From the heights, you kiss the whole valley and you can see the village nestled in a hollow, on the banks of the river.

6. Morlanne

Dating from the Middle Ages, this village of Béarn is best known for its 14th century castle. Directed by Gaston Fébus during the Hundred Years War, it is protected under the Historical Monuments. By visiting it, you will discover an original architecture mixing size stones and bricks, as well as a museum space.

From the castle, explore between 17th century houses and fortified church. In the Belluix house, discover the producer market and taste local specialties!

7. Accous

Once the capital of the Aspe Valley, this small village of Béarn is an ideal destination for nature holidays. At the confluence of Berthe and Gave d’Aspe, Accous welcomes you in a green setting at the foot of the mountains.

The hiking trails are numerous and allow you to quickly take height to enjoy magnificent views of the valley.

In terms of culture, you will enjoy the small Romanesque church of the 12th century. Visit the ecomuseum of cheese to discover the know-how of shepherds and all the techniques of refinement of the famous Ossau-Iraty. Also, the visit ends with a tasting. Another good reason to stop in a village of the most authentic Béarn.

8. Borce

This village of Béarn is bordering with the Spain and represents the last French stage to Santiago de Compostela on the tolosane track.

Many monuments and buildings testify to the medieval history of the village. The houses date from the 14th to the 17th centuries, and walking through the alleys, you will discover ancestral fountains, a bread oven or a washing machine.

On the heights, do not miss the Fort of the Portalet, built on the cliff side and overlooking the Aspe water. Several dolmens, megalithes, tertres and tumulus are also visible during a stroll around the area.

Finally, the wildlife park teaches you more about Pyrenean fauna, with isards, ibuns, marmots and even brown bears.

And you, from all the villages of Bearn, which one is your favorite?