A historic city on the edge of the foothills of the Pyrénées, Pau sits just over an hour from the Atlantic coast. Teeming with lively cafés, galleries, museums and bars, it's a fabulous base for a fun-filled city break as a couple or with friends and family. Accommodation options range from simple B&Bs to lovely country house hotels, fit for an array of tastes and budgets. The best places to stay in Pau tend to be intimate and characterful — ideal for a holiday to remember.

For a real sense of historic Pau, take a guided walking tour of the city centre. Admire the medieval Money Tower, which once housed a mint; visit the Musée des Beaux Arts; and amble along the Boulevard des Pyrénées, created at Napoleon’s suggestion. With the Palais Beaumont at one end and the Château de Pau, birthplace of Henri IV, at the other, this is a seriously impressive spot for a stroll.

Keen golfers can play a round at Pau Golf Club, which boasts the oldest course in Europe, whilst hikers and mountain bikers will find myriad trails criss-crossing the foothills of the Pyrénées. Kayak or sail along the Ousse River for panoramic views of the city and the mountains, before retreating to one of the best places to stay in Pau.

The Best Places to Stay in Pau

For a Rural B&B

• Clos Mirabel offers just five individually styled rooms in a white-painted country house with antique-filled interiors. Enjoy big breakfasts, chat to the welcoming hosts and explore miles of countryside on foot, two wheels or horseback. A real gem for tranquil couples or families.

For a Romantic Hotel

• Villa Navarre is a beautiful eighteenth century mansion on the outskirts of Pau. Elegant rooms with high ceilings and free standing tubs overlook manicured gardens, parkland and the swimming pool. Feast on gourmet fare in the restaurant. A romantic country escape for couples.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, an hour and twenty minutes' drive away. Alternatively, take the TGV south-west from Paris to Toulouse or fly to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, two hours from Pau.
• France is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between May and September for warm weather (with temperatures peaking around 23°C). Spring or autumn visitors can expect cooler temperatures. Showers are most frequent during the winter months, when temperatures hover around 10-12°C.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Biarritz.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Pau