Orthez
,Orthez is a charming town located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department of southwestern France. It is known for its rich history, with a well-preserved medieval quarter and the stunning 14th-century Moncade Castle. The town has a relaxed atmosphere and picturesque streets lined with traditional half-timbered houses.
Orthez is also famous for its annual Fetes de Navarrenx festival celebrating local culture and heritage.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Orthez
morning
:Start your day by visiting the iconic Tour Moncade, a historic tower offering panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the charming streets, soaking in the local architecture.
afternoon
:Head to the Musée d'Histoire which showcases the rich history of the region. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local café, trying traditional French cuisine.
evening
:Wind down your day with a peaceful walk along the Gave d'Oloron river. End your evening at a local bistro enjoying some regional wine.
History and Heritage
morning
:Visit the Church of Saint-Pierre to admire its unique Gothic architecture. Spend some time learning about the church's history and art.
afternoon
:Enjoy lunch in the town center, then visit the nearby Château de Beaumont for a taste of local history. Explore the gardens and admire the building's impressive exterior.
evening
:Dine at a traditional French restaurant, savoring regional specialties. Take an evening stroll through the historical part of Orthez to appreciate its evening charm.
Highlights
Good
- Rich history and historical architecture, including the Church of Saint-Pierre.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the nearby Pyrenees mountains.
- Strong local culture with traditional events and markets.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger French cities.
- A peaceful and small-town atmosphere with a friendly community.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Public transportation options may be scarce or less reliable.
- Fewer entertainment and cultural options compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-French speakers.
- Less access to advanced healthcare facilities compared to urban areas.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Pyrénées Atlantiques
Explore the stunning trails of the Pyrénées Atlantiques surrounding Orthez. Various routes are available for different skill levels, offering beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.
Cycling along the Gave de Pau
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Gave de Pau river. The paths are suitable for all levels and provide a picturesque backdrop with opportunities for bird watching.
Kayaking on the Gave de Pau
Experience the adventure of kayaking on the Gave de Pau. Rentals are available for those looking to paddle along the calm waters while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Visiting the Parc de la Mairie
Relax in the Parc de la Mairie, a beautiful green space in the heart of Orthez, perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying local flora.
Exploring the historical sites
Take a walking tour of Orthez to discover its rich history, including the medieval bridge, the Church of Sainte-Bernadette, and the remains of the Château d'Orthez.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Pont Vieux
An ancient stone bridge that offers stunning views of the Oloron River and the surrounding architecture of Orthez.
Château Moncade
A historic castle that provides a panoramic view of the town and the Béarn countryside, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Parc de la Mairie
A picturesque park in the center of Orthez with beautiful gardens and walking paths, ideal for capturing nature and local life.
La Rue des Lauriers
A charming street lined with traditional houses that offer excellent opportunities for capturing the essence of Orthez's architecture.
Église Saint-Pierre
A historic church with impressive architecture and interior details, providing a great backdrop for photos.
Place de la République
The main square of Orthez, surrounded by cafes and shops, offering vibrant street photography opportunities.
Les Remparts
The remnants of the medieval ramparts that provide a unique vantage point overlooking the town and the countryside.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Piperade
A flavorful dish made with onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and seasoned with Espelette pepper, often served with Bayonne ham and eggs. Not to be missed at Le Bistrot de la Fontaine.
Must-Try!
Magret de Canard
Tender duck breast, typically served with a sweet fruit sauce. You can savor this dish at Restaurant Au Feu de Bois for an authentic experience.
Gateau Basque
A buttery cake filled with either pastry cream or black cherry jam, offering a delightful sweet treat. You can find the best Gateau Basque at Patisserie Lou Cocal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Marché du lundi (Monday Market)
Explore the vibrant Monday market at Place Arnaud de Maytie, where you can sample fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, and indulge in street food like Basque pintxos and traditional crêpes.
Rue du Pont d'Arros
This charming street is lined with food stalls offering a variety of treats such as Bayonne ham sandwiches, Basque cheese platters, and pastries.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting Etiquette
In Orthez, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' during the day. When meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting, a handshake is appropriate. Among friends, a kiss on both cheeks is common.
Dining Customs
When dining in Orthez, it is polite to wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat. Additionally, keeping your hands on the table (but not elbows) and using utensils for most foods shows respect for the dining customs.
Dress Code
French culture, including that of Orthez, places a high value on appearance. It is advisable to dress neatly and avoid overly casual attire, especially in social settings or restaurants, to show respect for local norms.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Orthez, as in the rest of France, tipping is generally not mandatory as service charges are often included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave a small amount for excellent service, usually rounding up the bill or leaving a few coins. In restaurants, if the service is not included, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated.
Payment
Payment practices in Orthez are similar to those in the rest of France. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, though some smaller cafes or shops may only accept cash. It's common to pay after receiving the service, and splitting the bill among friends is quite normal. Additionally, contactless payment options are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is an ideal time to visit Orthez, as the weather begins to warm up with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The blooming flowers create picturesque landscapes, and outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local markets are enjoyable. Spring festivals may also be held, showcasing local culture.
Summer
Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures, averaging between 20°C and 30°C. This is peak tourist season, so visitors can expect lively ambiance, various cultural events, and outdoor festivals. However, it can get quite hot, making early morning and late evening outings more comfortable for sightseeing.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is a beautiful time in Orthez, with mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The changing colors of the leaves provide stunning views. Visitors can enjoy harvest festivals and the pleasant weather makes it suitable for exploring the town's historic sites and the surrounding countryside.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Orthez is cool, with temperatures averaging between 5°C and 12°C. While it is less crowded, visitors can experience a peaceful atmosphere and festive decorations during the holiday season. Some attractions may have shorter hours, and certain outdoor activities may be limited, but cultural sites remain open.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Sentier des Moulins
A scenic hiking trail that follows the course of the river, passing several old mills and offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Colline de la Bâtie
A popular local hiking area that provides panoramic views of the region and features varied trails suitable for different skill levels.
Forêt de Poyaller
A lush forest with marked trails, ideal for a leisurely hike amid diverse flora and fauna.
Les Gorges de Kakuetta
A stunning natural area located a bit further out, offering challenging hikes with breathtaking views of gorges and waterfalls.
Circuit des Lacs de Mouthe
A hiking circuit around picturesque lakes, perfect for families and those looking to enjoy nature at a relaxed pace.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Orthez by plane.
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD)
Located approximately 200 km west of Orthez, Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport is the main international airport serving the Bordeaux region, offering numerous international flights.
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS)
Situated about 180 km northeast of Orthez, Toulouse-Blagnac Airport is one of the major international airports in southern France and provides a wide range of international connections.
Pau Pyrénées Airport (PUF)
Located around 40 km east of Orthez, Pau Pyrénées Airport serves regional and some international flights, being the closest international airport to Orthez.
Bayonne-Anglet-Biarritz Airport (BIQ)
Approximately 60 km southwest of Orthez, this airport serves the Basque region and offers several international routes, mainly to Spain and the UK.
Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport (LDE)
About 90 km southeast of Orthez, Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport serves both domestic and a few international flights, primarily catering to tourists visiting the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
French
The majority of the population, consisting of people of French descent who identify culturally and linguistically with France.
Immigrants
Includes various groups from North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Eastern Europe who have settled in Orthez.
Elderly population
A significant demographic in Orthez, reflecting the overall aging population trend in many parts of France.
Youth Population
This group includes teenagers and young adults, which makes up a smaller percentage of the total population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby
Rugby is the most popular sport in Orthez, with a rich tradition and a strong local team that competes in regional leagues.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity in Orthez, with several clubs and youth programs promoting the sport.
Soccer
Soccer is widely played at various levels, with local teams engaging in community and regional competitions.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored sport, supported by the scenic routes and participation in local cycling events.
Athletics
Athletics has a following in Orthez, with events and clubs encouraging participation in track and field activities.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Basque cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Orthez offer vegetarian options such as vegetable tarts, salads, and grilled vegetable platters. Le Biscay is known for its flavorful vegan ratatouille.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free dishes like sautéed seafood, grilled meats, and rice-based specialties at La Table des Cordeliers.