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Orthez
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Orthez
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Climb the Tour Moncade on a clear day for dramatic views of the Pyrenees mountains.
- Park just outside the historic center; the medieval streets are narrow and easier to explore on foot.
- Cross the 13th-century Pont Vieux in the evening when it is beautifully illuminated.
- Visit on a Tuesday morning to experience the traditional weekly market, an institution since the Middle Ages.
🍽 Food
🍽
Garbure
A hearty traditional Béarnais duck and cabbage stew, ask for it in old town restaurants.
🍽
Ossau-Iraty
Local sheep's milk cheese, best bought at the Tuesday market.
🍽
Magret de Canard
Duck breast, a regional specialty found in traditional bistros.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
La Moutète Market Hall
The heart of the Tuesday market, great for regional charcuterie and cheeses.
🛍
Rue de l'Horloge
A pleasant street with small local artisan shops and boutiques.
🧘
Base de Loisirs d'Orthez-Biron
A large lake area just outside the city, well-suited for walking and summer swimming.
🧘
Banks of the Gave de Pau
Take a quiet walk along the riverbanks near the historic Pont Vieux.
Water temperature…
Orthez is a historically significant city in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department of southwestern France, within the Béarn region. Tucked away along the banks of the Gave de Pau river, it was the proud capital of the Béarn province from the 13th to the 15th centuries. Its most enduring symbol is the Pont Vieux, a magnificent fortified bridge built in 1254 that has become an icon of medieval engineering. The Moncade Tower, the sole remains of the fortress built by Gaston Phoebus, stands as a reminder of the town's former strategic importance and political power. During the 16th century, Orthez became a stronghold of Protestantism and a center of high learning under the patronage of Jeanne d'Albret. The town's military history is also marked by the Battle of Orthez in 1814, where Wellington fought against Marshal Soult. Today, the town features narrow medieval streets lined with elegant stone houses and renaissance mansions. Orthez is a crucial stop on the Way of Saint James, welcoming pilgrims for centuries. In modern times, it remains a vital commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural areas, famous for its basket-making tradition, high-quality local livestock markets, and the prestigious Bayonne ham produced in the region.
- Location: Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
- Top sights: Pont Vieux (Old Bridge) · Moncade Tower · Jeanne d'Albret House
- Nearby: Mourenx (17 km)
- Population: ~11.292
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 19 | 21 | 21 | 19 | 16 | 11 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 121 | 90 | 89 | 89 | 89 | 73 | 51 | 53 | 65 | 93 | 144 | 112 |
Geography
Facts
- Total land area of approximately 45.86 square kilometers.
- Postal code 64300 in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department.
- Elevation ranges from 38 to 185 meters above sea level.
- Population density is around 245 inhabitants per km².
- The fortified Pont Vieux was erected in 1254.
- Home to the Moncade Tower, built by Gaston VII of Béarn.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→19:083.1 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 36–48 €Entries 42€ · Transport 0€
Start your morning exploring the history of Protestantism at the Jeanne d'Albret House and the medieval Hôtel de la Lune. Midday, admire the gothic features of Saint-Pierre Church and conquer the steep stairs of the imposing Moncade Tower. In the afternoon, cross the medieval Pont Vieux bridging the Gave de Pau. Conclude your evening discovering local poetry at the Francis Jammes Museum.
← swipe for more places →
🎨
09:10 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
Explore the deep Protestant history of the Béarn region in this 16th-century museum, and pick up the English audio guide for the best experience.
🚶 5'0.09 km
🏛️
10:55 · 80'
Hôtel de la Lune
Admire the medieval architecture of this historic guest house where Froissart once stayed, taking note of its remarkably preserved stone facade.
🚶 5'0.09 km
⛪
12:20 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
Marvel at the impressive gothic vaulted ceilings of this beautiful historic church, but remember to dress modestly when stepping inside.
🚶 16'0.65 km
📍
13:26 · 80'
Moncade Tower
Climb the stairs to the top of this imposing fortress tower for a striking panoramic view of Orthez, but wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
🚶 23'1 km
🏛️
15:09 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
Walk across this iconic 13th-century fortified bridge spanning the Gave de Pau river, and step down to the riverbank for the best photo angle.
🚶 29'1.32 km
🎨
16:58 · 100'
Francis Jammes Museum
Discover the life and works of the famous local poet in this dedicated house museum, which is best visited after checking the afternoon opening hours.
09:00→19:083.1 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 36–48 €Entries 42€ · Transport 0€
Start your wet morning indoors at the Jeanne d'Albret house. By noon, seek reliable shelter inside the majestic Saint-Pierre church. The afternoon brings slippery cobblestones at the tower and bridge, so tread carefully. End the rainy evening completely dry in the warm Francis Jammes Museum.
← swipe for more places →
🎨
09:10 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
An excellent indoor start to safely escape the morning showers while exploring the region's rich local history.
🚶 5'0.09 km
🏛️
10:55 · 80'
Hôtel de la Lune
The historic facade looks beautifully dramatic in the rain, but watch your step closely on the slippery wet pavement.
🚶 5'0.09 km
⛪
12:20 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
Step inside this massive medieval stone shelter to dry off completely and admire the beautiful, dimly lit interior.
🚶 16'0.65 km
📍
13:26 · 80'
Moncade Tower
Carry a sturdy umbrella; the climb can be wet and slippery, but the misty, atmospheric views of the city are unforgettable.
🚶 23'1 km
🏛️
15:09 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
Watch the swollen river rush below, but hold onto your raincoat tightly as it gets surprisingly windy standing on the bridge.
🚶 29'1.32 km
🎨
16:58 · 100'
Francis Jammes Museum
End your thoroughly wet walking day completely dry inside this fascinating and deeply cultural literary museum.
09:00→19:083.1 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 36–48 €Entries 42€ · Transport 0€
Start your crisp winter morning exploring historic houses in warm layers. Warm up by noon inside the thick walls of the church. Afternoon views from the tower are clear, but remember sunset comes early around 17:00. Spend the chilly evening learning inside the well-lit museum.
← swipe for more places →
🎨
09:10 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
Thaw out completely in this warm historic house to learn about Navarrese royalty comfortably on a frosty morning.
🚶 5'0.09 km
🏛️
10:55 · 80'
Hôtel de la Lune
The crisp winter air gives this medieval inn a magical vibe; bundle up tightly before heading to the next outdoor stop.
🚶 5'0.09 km
⛪
12:20 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
The incredibly thick medieval walls block the biting winter wind perfectly during your peaceful midday exploration.
🚶 16'0.65 km
📍
13:26 · 80'
Moncade Tower
Climb to the very top for crystal-clear winter panoramas, but firmly wear a hat as it gets extremely breezy up there.
🚶 23'1 km
🏛️
15:09 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
The low winter sun casts beautifully dramatic long shadows over the stone bridge before the early 17:00 dusk falls.
🚶 29'1.32 km
🎨
16:58 · 100'
Francis Jammes Museum
A cozy, wonderfully well-lit cultural retreat to explore at your own pace once the dark and cold evening sets in outside.
09:00→18:043.2 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 46–62 €Entries 42€ · Transport 12€
Pedal first to the iconic Pont Vieux for a morning photo op, then explore the rich exhibits of the Jeanne d'Albret House. By midday, take a quiet moment in the Saint-Pierre Church before pushing your bike up to the towering Moncade fortress. Spend your afternoon enjoying nature at the serene Lac de l'Y, and end your active day with a cultural visit to the Francis Jammes Museum.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
Walk across this iconic 13th-century fortified bridge spanning the Gave de Pau river, and step down to the riverbank for the best photo angle.
🚲 5'0.35 km
🎨
10:35 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
Explore the deep Protestant history of the Béarn region in this 16th-century museum, and pick up the English audio guide for the best experience.
🚲 4'0.14 km
⛪
12:19 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
Marvel at the impressive gothic vaulted ceilings of this beautiful historic church, but remember to dress modestly when stepping inside.
🚲 7'0.65 km
📍
13:16 · 80'
Moncade Tower
Climb the stairs to the top of this imposing fortress tower for a striking panoramic view of Orthez, but wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
🚲 7'0.63 km
📍
14:43 · 60'
Lac de l'Y
Enjoy a peaceful walk around the tree-lined shores of this calm natural lake, making it a well-suited spot to sit on a bench and relax for a while.
🚲 11'1.4 km
🎨
15:54 · 100'
Francis Jammes Museum
Discover the life and works of the famous local poet in this dedicated house museum, which is best visited after checking the afternoon opening hours.
09:00→18:043.2 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 46–62 €Entries 42€ · Transport 12€
A wet morning ride starts at the bridge; wear a sturdy poncho. Seek noon shelter inside the dry church. Afternoon paths to the tower and lake will be surprisingly slippery, so ride slowly. Finish the rainy evening safely indoors at the local museum.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
The bridge's cobblestones are extremely slippery when wet; dismount your bike if necessary to safely enjoy the view.
🚲 5'0.35 km
🎨
10:35 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
Park your bike securely and dry off completely inside this fascinating museum while the rain continues outside.
🚲 4'0.14 km
⛪
12:19 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
A perfectly reliable covered stop. Park your bike and completely escape the heavy midday showers inside the nave.
🚲 7'0.65 km
📍
13:16 · 80'
Moncade Tower
Rainy views from the high keep are atmospheric, but be extra cautious walking on the wet, slippery stone steps.
🚲 7'0.63 km
📍
14:43 · 60'
Lac de l'Y
The dirt paths around the lake can easily become muddy in the rain, so strictly stick to the paved riding sections.
🚲 11'1.4 km
🎨
15:54 · 100'
Francis Jammes Museum
A thoroughly excellent, warm indoor conclusion to a wet riding day; completely dry off here before heading home.
09:00→18:043.2 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 46–62 €Entries 42€ · Transport 12€
Start your incredibly frosty morning ride securely wrapped in warm layers. Stop at the church at noon to properly warm your freezing hands. The afternoon lake is beautiful, but remember the sun fully sets by 17:00. End your chilly ride at the museum before it gets completely dark.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
A beautiful, deeply frosty start to your ride; actively watch for treacherous black ice on the bridge stones early on.
🚲 5'0.35 km
🎨
10:35 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
Step inside to effectively thaw out and slowly explore the historical exhibits while safely escaping the freezing winds.
🚲 4'0.14 km
⛪
12:19 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
A wonderfully quiet, fully enclosed space to warm your core mid-ride before bravely facing the winter chill again.
🚲 7'0.65 km
📍
13:16 · 80'
Moncade Tower
Climb up for a remarkably crisp winter panorama before the sun dips entirely; firmly keep your riding gloves on at the top.
🚲 7'0.63 km
📍
14:43 · 60'
Lac de l'Y
The beautifully bare trees reflect sharply in the freezing water; purposely keep moving quickly to maintain body heat.
🚲 11'1.4 km
🎨
15:54 · 100'
Francis Jammes Museum
End your freezing ride here in the warmth, as the extremely early winter dusk makes outdoor cycling far too dark.
09:00→16:576.8 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 30–40 €Entries 34€ · Transport 1€
Drive up to the Moncade Tower first for a sweeping morning view, then head into the center to visit the Saint-Pierre Church and Jeanne d'Albret House. Enjoy a pleasant midday walk around the ancient fortifications of Pont Vieux. In the afternoon, park near the Base de Loisirs d'Orthez to relax by the sandy beach. Finish with an evening dip in the local Piscine.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 80'
Moncade Tower
Climb the stairs to the top of this imposing fortress tower for an impressive panoramic view of Orthez, but wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
🚗 5'0.65 km
⛪
10:35 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
Marvel at the impressive gothic vaulted ceilings of this beautiful historic church, but remember to dress modestly when stepping inside.
🚗 3'0.14 km
🎨
11:28 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
Explore the deep Protestant history of the Béarn region in this 16th-century museum, and pick up the English audio guide for the best experience.
🚗 4'0.35 km
🏛️
13:12 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
Walk across this iconic 13th-century fortified bridge spanning the Gave de Pau river, and step down to the riverbank for the best photo angle.
🚗 13'2.96 km
📍
14:45 · 45'
Base de Loisirs d'Orthez
Spend quality time at this leisure center with its sandy beach and water activities, packing plenty of sunscreen and a towel for a sunny afternoon.
🚗 12'2.75 km
📍
15:42 · 45'
Piscine
Cool off at the end of the day in this well-maintained municipal pool facility, but remember to bring a swimming cap which is mandatory in France.
09:00→16:576.8 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 30–40 €Entries 34€ · Transport 1€
Drive straight to the tower this rainy morning with a large umbrella ready. Spend noon safely dry inside the historic church and museum. A muddy afternoon at the leisure base isn't ideal, so wisely spend your thoroughly wet evening at the indoor pool.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 80'
Moncade Tower
Keep an umbrella handy for the short walk from the car; the stone steps are notoriously slippery when wet.
🚗 5'0.65 km
⛪
10:35 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
An excellent completely dry shelter to slowly admire the medieval architecture while the heavy rain falls safely outside.
🚗 3'0.14 km
🎨
11:28 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
Fully enjoy the fascinating indoor exhibits completely in the dry while the bad weather relentlessly continues outside.
🚗 4'0.35 km
🏛️
13:12 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
Make a very quick photo stop firmly under an umbrella or simply admire the historic bridge comfortably from your car.
🚗 13'2.96 km
📍
14:45 · 45'
Base de Loisirs d'Orthez
Since the ground is incredibly muddy, stick to paved paths or enjoy the dramatically stormy lake view right from the car.
🚗 12'2.75 km
📍
15:42 · 45'
Piscine
The absolutely excellent weather-independent activity when it is pouring rain outside, warm water completely indoors.
09:00→16:576.8 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 30–40 €Entries 34€ · Transport 1€
The car's heater is absolutely perfect for a crisp winter morning driving to the tower. Explore the church and museum around noon to actively stay warm. The afternoon at the leisure base is brisk, so eagerly head to the indoor pool before the early 17:00 sunset.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 80'
Moncade Tower
The deeply frosty morning view from the tower is spectacular; the short, heated drive keeps you perfectly warm on the way.
🚗 5'0.65 km
⛪
10:35 · 50'
Saint-Pierre Church
A deeply peaceful, completely wind-protected retreat from the crisp winter air before eagerly hopping back into the warm car.
🚗 3'0.14 km
🎨
11:28 · 100'
Jeanne d'Albret House
Warm up fully inside while diving deeply into Navarre history, safely far away from the freezing afternoon winter wind.
🚗 4'0.35 km
🏛️
13:12 · 80'
Pont Vieux (Old Bridge)
The bridge undeniably looks striking in the soft winter light; step out of the car briefly for a quick, chilly photo.
🚗 13'2.96 km
📍
14:45 · 45'
Base de Loisirs d'Orthez
Enjoy a brisk walk in the remarkably quiet winter atmosphere, but keep a very close eye on the rapidly approaching sunset.
🚗 12'2.75 km
📍
15:42 · 45'
Piscine
Warm indoor swimming is the absolutely excellent, cozy end to a thoroughly dark, freezing winter afternoon post-17:00.
Sights in the town Orthez (9)
Frequently asked questions
What is the most famous landmark of Orthez?
The Pont Vieux, a 13th-century medieval bridge over the Gave de Pau river.
Can you visit the Moncade Tower?
Yes, the tower is the remnant of a fortress by Gaston Fébus and has a museum and panoramic views.
When is market day in Orthez?
The large traditional market takes place every Tuesday morning in the city center.
Is there a museum about Protestantism?
Yes, the Maison Jeanne d’Albret is dedicated to the history of Protestantism in Béarn.
How far is Orthez from Pau?
Pau is about 40 km away and can be reached by car in approx. 35 minutes via the A64.
Orthez: where is it located?
Orthez is located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France.
Orthez: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pont Vieux (Old Bridge), Moncade Tower, Jeanne d'Albret House.
Orthez: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Orthez: why is it worth visiting?
Orthez is a historically significant city in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department of southwestern France, within the Béarn region.
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