Cycling in Pau: riding in the slipstream of the giants
Pau has a longstanding love affair with the Tour de France. As the third most visited city by the Tour de France, it is the perfect base camp for tackling the legendary mountain passes.
- The Tour des Géants: Don't miss this open-air museum in the heart of Beaumont Park. It pays tribute to the winners of the Tour with interactive totems.
- Legendary mountain passes: Just a few pedal strokes away, the Soulor, Aubisque, and Marie-Blanque passes will challenge your calf muscles.
- Leisure cycling: For a gentler approach, the banks of the Gave offer well-maintained cycle paths, ideal for a family outing while admiring the Pyrenees mountain range.
The whitewater stadium: adrenaline in the heart of Pau
Did you know that Pau is home to one of the most beautiful whitewater stadiums in Europe? This is where the greatest canoeing and kayaking champions train. But don't worry, the site is open to all athletes.
- Rafting and hydrospeed: For a dose of freshness and thrills, take the plunge into the artificial pool.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: Test your balance on a modular course that can be adapted to all skill levels.
- The setting: The site also has a restaurant overlooking the whirlpools, ideal for relaxing after your workout.
Hiking and trail running: the Pyrenees on the horizon
In Pau, the mountains are not just a backdrop to the horizon: they beckon you. In less than an hour, you can leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and enjoy the silence of the peaks.
- The Pic du Midi d'Ossau: A true symbol of Béarn, it offers unforgettable hiking trails.
- Trail running: The hillsides of Jurançon, just outside the town, offer technical trails with the perfect elevation gain for trail running training, all set among the vineyards.
- Winter: The proximity of resorts such as Gourette and Artouste means you can swap your walking shoes for skis or snowshoes in record time.
A land of clubs and fervor
Pau is also a city of sports fans. For athletes who love to cheer on team performances, the city has a lot to offer.
Rugby is a religion here, with Section Paloise thrilling crowds at the Hameau stadium in the Top 14. Basketball is no slouch either, with Élan Béarnais, a historic club with an impressive track record. Attending a game in Pau means discovering genuine, warm enthusiasm.
Golf: a historic record
For golf enthusiasts, Pau is home to the Pau Golf Club 1856. It is quite simply the oldest golf club in continental Europe. Playing on this course means following in the footsteps of the Scottish pioneers who brought the sport to the continent. A flat, technical course steeped in history.
Practical information for your stay in Pau
- When to go? Spring and fall are ideal for biking and hiking. Summer is perfect for water activities.
- How to get there? Book your direct flight with Chalair to reach Pau quickly and with all your sports equipment.
- Where to stay? Choose the city center to enjoy Boulevard des Pyrénées in the evening, or the Billère area to be closer to the sports facilities.
Pau is one of the few destinations capable of offering such a wide variety of activities within such a small area. It is the ultimate "base camp" city. Don't forget that at Chalair, we make it easy for you to transport your sports equipment.
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