Pau in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department is a city best known for its stunning mountainous surrounds, but also for its cultural heritage and its fine Renaissance architecture. In spite of a plethora of splendid old buildings, the city centre has a cosmopolitan ambience and is bursting with 21st century amenities.
If you enjoy outdoor activity during a holiday, then Pau is a good destination to visit. Winter brings opportunities for skiing at nearby mountain resorts, while summer sees plenty of scope for walking and hiking, and general appreciation of the pleasant natural environment in which the city sits. If you don’t mind getting behind the wheel of a car then the beaches of neighbouring Biarritz offer plenty of activity possibilities.
The city has plenty to offer in the way of sightseeing attractions, among which the famous Château de Pau is a highlight. Few holiday makers visit this part of France without making a trip to this magnificent castle to appreciate its many fascinating sections, each with their own unique features.
The one-time capital of the Béarn province, Pau is a destination noted for its fine cuisine. Béarnese gastronomy is known not only throughout France, but across Europe and in international circles also. The city’s dining scene is accordingly impressive, and eating out is an experience to be savoured as often as finances permit during a Pau holiday.
Pau is famous also for wine production, and there are a number of reputable vineyards around the city that make for interesting touring. Visitors will also find plenty of wine retailers among the city’s excellent selection of shops so there is no shortage of chances to pick up wine or other traditional local goods to take back home.
Pau is easily reached, having its own international airport that maintains connections with major EU cities and domestic airports also. Visitors not able to fly direct can land at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and take a connecting flight. The city can also be reached by bus and train from within France and from neighbouring countries also.
Pau has a good visitor infrastructure, which includes a solid local transportation network that makes getting to attractions and places of interest easy. There are plenty of accommodation options also, with some big names such as Le Bourbon Pau and Novotel on hand. The best way to secure your Pau hotel is online in advance, where great discounts are available.
Pau’s weather is influenced by the Atlantic ocean and so it experiences warm summers, mild winters and an even distribution of rainfall throughout the year. This moderate weather system means it can be visited in all seasons.
Summer is the most ideal period in which to visit Pau; during this season temperatures climb into the mid- to high 20s (°C) and rarely drop below 15°C. Rainfall in the early months of the season is low, but increases to August and September.
Spring and autumn see some pleasantly warm weather, but an increased likelihood of rain late in the season so visitors planning a holiday at this time need to pack a waterproof jacket. December is the wettest month of the year and best avoided, however, January is drier. With some warm clothes, visitors can easily enjoy a winter holiday in Pau.
