24 hours in Orthez

Orthez and its history

In the very centre of the town, the keep of the Moncade Castle stands witness to Gaston Fébus', the 14th century lord and his ambition to turn Béarn into a Pyrenean State. The keep which is 110 m high is the highest point in town.

Walking down rue Moncade on the Chemin de Compostella pilgrim route, at 14 rue de l'Horloge you'll find the courtyard of the Hôtel de la Lune, a magnificent medieval dwelling from the 15th century.

Keep walking through the Old Town and enter the Jeanne d'Albret Museum to have an understanding of the influence that protestantism had over Béarn. Then follow the road to the Pont Vieux, the old bridge proudly astride the Gave de Pau. Gaston Fébus made this bridge emblematic of his town. His motto: “Touch it if you dare” !

From the Pont Vieux, have a look at the Moutète market which was the very temple of French basketball during the 1980s.

Also worth a visit in Orthez is the Maison Chrestia, a beautiful 18th-century Béarnaise house that was home to the poet Francis Jammes from 1897 to 1907.

Guided tours of Orthez and Château Moncade

From May to October, follow our guide to discover Orthez's must-see monuments. From the Pont Vieux to the Maison Jeanne d'Albret, with the Château Moncade as the highlight, these tours will reveal the history of the medieval town.

Country walks around Orthez

From the château, take the Chemin de la Coudanne down into the Moncade woods to reach the Lac du Grècq (10-minute walk), or perhaps opt for a short hike in the Bois de Laqueyre ? 
As a family, the Terra Aventura trail is an original way for children to explore Orthez. A real treasure hunt, it involves solving riddles to discover the mystery word!

Orthez also has a beach!

There's no need to travel miles to enjoy a fine sandy beach! Water sports and outdoor activities are available at the Orthez-Biron leisure centre. It's the beach in the countryside: fresh water and green banks!

For gourmets

On Tuesday mornings, take advantage of the market to savour some local specialities, and at lunchtime head for a traditional restaurant.

For children

Because heritage isn't just for grown-ups, the discovery booklet "Je découvre Orthez, la vieille ville" (I'm discovering Orthez, the old town) is a fun way for children to wander around the town. There are lots of little games for all the family to discover Orthez and its history. This booklet is available free of charge from the Tourist Office.

Download the child discovery booklet "I discover Orthez, the old town"