connoisseur travel
Destination...
Pau
France’s King Henry IV was born there and Napoleon used it as his holiday retreat. Today, Pau continues to cultivate a rich culinary culture, renowned vineyards and scenic public parks What to see::
Scenic views and a chateau fit for a King
You can’t spend time in Pau without visiting Boulevard des Pyrénées. With buildings only on its northern side, the boulevard is notable for its panoramic view of the peaks of the Pyrénées. So staggering are the views that they inspired French poet Alphonse de Lamartine to declare that “Pau has the world’s most beautiful view of the earth, just as Naples has the most beautiful view of the sea.” A trip to the Château de Pau is also a must. Famous for being the birthplace of France’s Henry IV, the historical monument dominates nearly a quarter of the city and possesses a garden once tended by Marie Antoinette. If you somehow manage to exhaust the city, why not hire a car and take a trip to Toulon? Explore its stunning cathedral, celebrated market and spectacular coastline.
CityJet flies from London City Airport to Pau seven days a week with flights starting from £49 (one way).
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For more information, schedules and to book your flight visit www.cityjet.com or www.londoncityairport.com
Where to stay:
Hotel Parc Beaumont This luxurious five star hotel has all the leisure facilities you could desire for a relaxing stay in the area. As well as a heated pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi, Hotel Parc Beaumont boasts a Bamboo spa and beauty therapy room. Located just outside the Parc Beaumont, the charming garden at the historic centre of Pau, the hotel is a stunning building which is in perfect harmony with its environment. Hotel Parc Beaumont offers 80 rooms and suites, each designed around a fluidity of space, refined decor and soothing colours. www.hotel-parc-beaumont.com 1 Avenue Edouard VII, 64000 Pau +33 05 59 11 84 00
Where to eat:
Au Fin Gourmet
Situated in the shadow of a palm tree orchard at the base of the Boulevard des Pyrénées escarpment, Au Fin Gourmet is a restaurant favoured by locals and visitors alike. The dining rooms are a contemporary mix of glass and stainless steel that blend to create a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Choose to dine outside and you will do so amidst the lush greenery of the winter garden – the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of fine wine. Each month, the selection of dishes on Au Fin Gourmet’s menu is transformed to reflect seasonal changes in local ingredients. Braised fish, sweet potatoes and fresh mango are just some of the delicacies. www.restaurant-aufingourmet.com 24 Avenue Gaston Lacoste, 64000 Pau +33 05 59 27 47 71
Where to play::
As day turns to night
If you’re looking for a night out in Pau, you’ll be spoilt for choice. While Pau may be a relatively small town, it certainly knows how to party. The bars that line the Boulevard des Pyrénées double up as clubs, and when the music gets turned up, night soon turns to early morning. For those who take their beer seriously, La Tireuse provides the best option. For those who like to dance, La Scène caters for a wide range of music tastes.
Don’’t miss:
The Bétharram caves
For thousands of years water has flowed through the Pyrénées, breaking down rock and carving out caves. Thanks to the erosion process, the Bétharram caves, located a short drive from Pau, are now some of the most impressive in Europe. Divided into five superimposed levels, hollowed out at different times, the caves boast huge limestone deposits and a series of waterfalls. A tour lasts about 80 minutes, providing an excellent option for rainy days. www.grottes-de-betharram.com