Your day
Morning
Béarn was an independent State up until the 17th century. To learn a bit more about its surprising history visit the historic centre of Orthez and the Jeanne Albret (Henri IV's mother) Museum. This museum is situated in a fine 15th century manor surrounded by a typical French garden. It retraces the major stages in our history from the 16th century to the 20th century covering the Huguenots, Catherine de Bourbon and so much more.
Lunchtime
In the Cœur de Béarn we eat well!! Traditional restaurants or those with "Maître Restaurateur" or "Assiettes de Pays" labels. It's up to you... lunch in Orthez after your visit or take to the hills by the Route des Crêtes (via Lagor, about 45 minutes). Eat on route or wait until you get to Monein.
Afternoon
At the very heart of the Jurançon vineyards the 16th century church of St Girons in Monein which has been classified as a Historic Monument dominates the old town with its 40 meter clock tower. Its wooden structure in the form of an upturned, double skinned boat is unique in France. Highlighted by a son et lumière show its can only be visited with a guide. To really round off the day try some Jurançon wine in the surrounding vineyards, just a few minutes away on foot.
