Top 6 free activities to do with children in Béarn Pyrénées

Your holidays in the Béarn Pyrénées region are approaching and you are looking for ideas to keep young and old busy without spending a cent ? You're in luck, we've thought of you! Large family or simply keen to save money , there is no shortage of free activities to do together in the area. Let's go together to discover these leisure activities where the wallet stays at home and everyone will have a blast !

A life-size treasure hunt

What could be better than running around looking for a clue to learn more about our vacation spot?

Tèrra Aventura is a giant, free treasure hunt that invites you to explore the natural and cultural riches of New Aquitaine, of which Béarn Pyrénées is a part.

How does it work?

• Download the geocaching application on smartphone;
• Choose your route from among the hundreds on offer;
• Go on an adventure to collect Poï'z, friendly little characters;
• Discover the local heritage through puzzles and fun information.

Some examples of routes in the Béarn Pyrenees

• Salies-de-Béarn : discover the secrets of this spa town thanks to a fun trail.
• Navarrenx : explore this medieval city and its ramparts.
• Morlaàs : collect Poï'z on the trail of the Way of Saint James.
• Morlanne : lift the veil on the most beautiful viewpoints of this authentic Béarnese village.

A treasure hunt for children

We continue with an innovative concept that will please your little ones: Randoland. These fun walks are designed like real treasure hunts.

The principle is simple: you are provided with a route sheet that guides you through a village, a city or a natural site. All along the way, solve puzzles by analyzing your environment, deciphering clues and answering questions.

Why is Randoland appreciated by families?

• It is fun and educational : it allows you to discover the heritage, history and nature of Béarn Pyrénées in an original way. You will see your children having fun while developing their sense of observation and their critical thinking.
• It's suitable for all ages : it's not just the youngest who will get into the game. So, are the parents good or bad players?
• It's outdoors : perfect for enjoying nature and the great outdoors while getting a little exercise without realizing it.
• There is no time constraint : do you want to take a gourmet break ? Discover the best restaurants in Béarn Pyrénées!

A family walk in the forest

It's a classic, but it always pleases your little ones: getting a breath of fresh air in the forest is a free activity that everyone loves. The Béarn Pyrénées has real natural treasures, perfect for walks.

Children will be able to observe birds, insects, century-old trees and perhaps even follow animal tracks... In complete safety! No matter which route they choose, everyone will find something to enjoy.

Read our article on The most beautiful hikes in the Pyrenean valleys of Béarn and consult our tool to find hiking routes in the area.

Water activities on the lakes

In the heart of nature, try new activities with your children. Between calm waters and breathtaking landscapes, you will definitely find the activity that suits your tribe.

The essentials

• Lake Baudreix : near Pau, this little paradise on earth is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. On the program: water skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding and canoeing.
• Gabas Lake : Are you looking for a timeless place ? You've come to the right place! Introduce your children to fishing, sailing or paddle boarding. To get your heart rate up, an 11km hike invites you to completely disconnect.
• Bassillon-Vaudé Lake : between two sport fishing trips, enjoy the water's edge for a picnic in the shade.

As you will have understood, there is no shortage of water sports and leisure activities in this region of south-west France!

Visit the typical villages of the territory

Invite your children to take a Marty McFly-style trip through time by visiting the must-see villages of Béarn Pyrénées. Stroll through the streets to observe the traditions and lifestyles of the inhabitants.

Are you afraid that your children will get bored? You don't know the tourist offices in the region. Many villages offer games, puzzles to solve or even dramatized walks to get the little ones involved in exploring an unusual place.

What to visit with children?

• Salies-de-Béarn to stroll along the quays and discover the salt museum.
• Oloron-Sainte-Marie and its many shops to buy holiday souvenirs.
• Navarrenx to play explorers on the ramparts.

Explore local markets

Much more than just stalls selling seasonal fruit and vegetables, Béarn markets are unmissable events for locals and visitors alike. It's an opportunity to discover local produce, meet local entrepreneurs and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere of the villages. And for children? It's a fun and educational experience that will awaken their senses.

Some ideas for activities for children

• Tasting : let your little ones taste different local products, explaining their origin and flavor.
• Discovering the trades : this is the time to talk with the craftsmen in order to understand their know-how.
• Creating a menu : trust the children to create the next meal with market produce.

Discover local know-how

The Béarn Pyrénées is a land rich in regional traditions. To discover this ancient heritage, there is nothing like exploring behind the scenes and meeting local artisans. Many workshops offer free visits throughout the year to reveal the secrets of making unique products during an exchange with passionate creators.

What types of workshops should you visit as a family?

• Basque linen fabric workshop : Lartigue 1910 takes you on a journey through the history of the company by giving you access to its weaving workshop.

Free visits from Tuesday to Friday - at 10:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. (no reservation required) .

• Beret making : enter the smallest artisanal beret factory in France. The Beret Factory organizes free tours every Thursday between February and September to make you witnesses of this ancestral know-how.

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