If you travel to Pau, the environment of the Bearn region has not finished surprising you. Between discovery of exceptional places and sensational activities, discover our top 7 of the best activities to do around Pau.

Going on a pilgrimage to Lourdes

Ideally, plan a day to discover this place full of history and culture. You will start by strolling in the beautiful historical center of the city, overlooked by the castle of Lourdes, classified as a historical monument. You can visit this 1000 year old defensive building and discover at the same time the Pyrenean Museum, labeled Museum of France. It is the ideal place to enjoy a view of the city, surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Pyrenees.

For a more spiritual experience, head for the Grotte de Lourdes, the very spot where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Bernadette. For a complete immersion experience, you can join the 10:00 a.m. mass or the 3:30 p.m. rosary. The best way to leave the grotto is to collect some water from the fountain, then follow in Bernadette's footsteps along the circuit that winds its way through the important places in her life.

The depths of the Betharram Caves

On the border between the Pyrénées Atlantiques and the Hautes-Pyrénées, the Bétharram caves are often cited as the most beautiful in Europe. What sets them apart from traditional caves is the originality of their visit.

The tour begins on foot, continues by boat and ends with a short train ride. Inside, the cave comprises 3 levels of galleries stretching for almost 3 km.

It was one of the first caves to be opened to the general public, welcoming visitors as far back as 1880. Today, the cave is even accessible to people with reduced mobility, as a ramp replaces the original steps.

Relax in the thermal waters of Salies-de-Béarn

Recharge your batteries and enjoy a moment of well-being in these 150-year-old thermal baths. Its mineral content is made up of 26 trace elements, giving it therapeutic properties that are unique in the world. This composition can help combat rheumatism, osteoarthritis and certain traumas. Its water is even said to be 10 times saltier than seawater.

Come and discover the salt grotto and lagoon of the Dead Sea of Terms. It's a journey shaped by 3 rooms stimulating all the senses around the world of salt and thermal water. It's like being in a real cave, a soothing and therapeutic place.

You'll also find a wellness area with a spa, a beauty area where you can enjoy top-of-the-range beauty treatments, an aquatic area and a fitness area.

Via Ferrata of Siala

Equip yourself with a helmet and harness and you're off to climb the Pyrenees! Overlooking the Ossau valley, the via ferrata allows you to climb to the top of the mountains and enjoy breathtaking views over the valley.

This is a via ferrata with a difference in altitude of 150m to 180m, depending on the difficulty required. If you're lucky, you may spot griffon vultures on the way up.

The via ferrata is accessible to all. An easy, thrilling course can be enjoyed by the whole family, while a second section is dedicated to adrenalin-seekers.