5 good reasons to visit Nay, in Pays de Nay

Located in the southwest of France, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques to the east of Béarn, the Pays de Nay delights with its natural setting and its varied landscapes between plains, hillsides and mountains. From Bruges to Lestelle-Bétharram, the visit continues without surprise with the bastide of Nay, founded in 1302 by the Countess of Béarn Marguerite de Moncade. Spend a few days in this town of character and discover the 5 good reasons to visit Nay, in Pays de Nay.

Opening photo: Yvann K / AdobeStock

1- Explore the superb Nay market

Renowned in the region, the Nay market is historic and takes place in the city every Tuesday morning with 120 exhibitors of all kinds. Colors, smells, textures, flavors, every sense is awakened on Place de la République, Place Marcadieu, Rue du Maréchal Joffre and Rue Marcadieu during this weekly event which attracts locals as much as tourists. The Nay market offers a vast choice of food and other products, including fruits, vegetables, fine wines, local specialties, clothing, cutlery and crafts. Don't miss this weekly event around the halls of Nay, an exceptional exhibition that we never tire of.

2- Wear a beret from the town of Nay

Nay is the capital of the beret, this emblematic headgear of the region which has stood the test of time without losing its elegance. Originally it was more like a cape, covering the heads and shoulders of Roman soldiers in Béarn, before being adapted to the needs of shepherds. Napoleon 3, adoring France, discovered this original headdress and named it "Basque beret", thereby imposing a custom that is still current since it is today made in several colors, for men and women. Discover the entire history, origins and manufacture of the beret in the one and only museum dedicated to it in Pays de Nay.

3- Walk around the Maison Carrée de Nay, in Pays de Nay

This is a visit not to be missed if you pass through Nay. Classified as a historic monument, the Maison Carrée de Nay is a former 16th century mansion which today houses the Industry Museum. Between corridors and galleries, discover the history of the region and the arts exhibitions organized by the city. Completely restored between 1994 and 1998, the Maison Carrée is an emblematic place in Nay which presents textile work and woodwork from the end of the 18th century to the present day. Admire its Renaissance architecture, its interior courtyard, its elaborate facades and its tower staircase, and let yourself be carried away by the atmosphere of the place which takes you back a few years.

4- Discover cowbells, a true Béarnais heritage

Cowbells are a must when you discover Béarn. Bells or bells attached around the neck of the animal, they make it easy to spot the cows, goats, dogs and sheep which move freely in the mountains. Currently, there is only one cowbell manufacturer located in Bourdettes in the Pays de Nay. Passionate craftsmen, Daban cowbells are a reference in sheet metal work, creating real musical instruments for the herds of the Pyrenees. Discover unique know-how and an incredible tradition in the Pays de Nay with lovers of their profession who have adapted their creation to all animals since 1660.

5- Relax at Lake Baudreix in Pays de Nay

Between Pau and Lourdes, this is the perfect place to relax between the beach and the mountains in a preserved environment, “la Saligue”. A typically Béarnais term, it designates the flood-prone banks of the Gave de Pau. Come and spend a day outdoors on a landscaped lake where a leisure center is open in the summer. Supervised swimming, water slide, water ski lift, water jump, canoe or stand-up paddle, there is something for everyone at the Ô Kiri space. You can even walk on the many marked trails, and work out on the fitness trail, the tennis or basketball court, before picnicking in an area suitable for Lake Baudreix. Let yourself go, the Pays de Nay is also the place to relax.

If you know Béarn or are discovering the region, you now know that a visit to Nay is essential. Don't hesitate any longer and explore this charming town, you now have 5 good reasons to visit Nay, in Pays de Nay.

Did you like our article? Find others on the Guide du Béarn Blog. Find us on the Béarn Pyrénées Guide Facebook Page and also on Instagram @guidebearnpyrenees