Pau is known for its stunning views of the Pyrenees. (Image: Getty)
An underrated little in known for its rich history, and sophisticated charm has the best views of the Pyrenees mountains.
Pau, located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in the southwest of is a gateway to the Pyrenean mountains and the Basque Country.
The top attraction of the city is the Boulevard des Pyrénées. This iconic promenade stretches about 1.8km (1.1miles), offering breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain range.
Lined with palm trees, elegant buildings and cafés, it reflects Pau’s blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.
Fountain at Boulevard Pyrenees, Pau (Image: Getty)
Pau is surrounded by lush greenery and parks, with the Parc Beaumont being a serene retreat. Its proximity to the Pyrenees makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
Another place to visit is Château de Pau, an historic castle which was the birthplace of King Henry IV of France. The castle now houses a museum with tapestries, artifacts and exhibits showcasing the region’s history.
The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere, partly due to its historical popularity among British aristocrats in the 19th century.
Apart from the rich culture, the city has wonderful cuisine and wines to offer. Visitors can have a taste of Béarnaise cuisine, with specialties like garbure (a hearty soup) and local cheeses.
It is also near the Jurançon wine region, known for its sweet and dry white wines.
Travellers can also wander through narrow streets and admire the mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture.
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View of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau in the French Pyrenees (Image: Getty)
One person who visited shared their thoughts in the trip to travel review website Tripadvisor.
They said: “It was my first visit to Pau and – how did I ever miss it? What a wonderful place to visit and how rare to go to a town which has produced two Kings for two different countries
“It is perched on a ridge which means the promenade has the most stunning views and – if you arrive by train – do not worry about the climb – there is a free cable car which wafts you into the town.”
They added that “there is a calm about the town” and that “it is a delight”
Another said: “My family and I recently stayed in Pau with some family friends. It was a really lovely and charming little town. Moreover, it is driving distance to the Pyranees and the ocean. We passed a fabulous day in St. Jean de Luz and took a lovely little train ride into the Pyranees. It has a really beautiful countryside.”
A third said: “I went to Pau, because it is a city that is close to Spain, but far enough away so that it has nothing to do with our architecture or customs, and I was not wrong, it is a ‘small’ city but with many charming corners to discover, I recommend going with comfortable clothes and shoes, taking a map and visiting all its churches, the castle, the Palais Beaumont, the Parc Beaumont, the Boulevard des Pyrenees…all this with incredible views of the Pyrenees, on the Boulevard des Pyrenees there are some tea shops where there are hammocks, where I totally recommend stopping because having a tea, with incredible weather, in a hammock and the Pyrenees in the background is a totally relaxing experience.”