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Navarrenx town

Description

Navarrenx is a small town in Béarn, in the southwest department of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques in France. It is known for its well-preserved fortifications and is part of the association of the most beautiful french villages. References to the town go back to the 11th century and the main bridge above the Gave d'Oloron dates from the 13th century. The Navarre and Bearn regions were united in 1620 under Louis XIII and the town was superseded as prefecture by Pau during the French Revolution. Besides the city gates, the bridge and the fortifications, the city highlights include the church of Saint Germain d'Auxerre (the via Podensis of the Camino de Santiago transits through Navarrenx) and the ruins of a small open-air theatre.

Access & Transport

Driving instructions from Pau: take the D817 to Artix (or the D2 along the southern bank of the Gave de Pau) and then head towards Mourenx on the D281 followed by the D111 until you reach. The ~40km journey takes about 45mins.

Instructions & Recommendations

We suggest combining a visit there with Oloron Sainte Marie or rafting on the local river (Gave d'Oloron). The town of Sauveterre de Béarn further downriver is also worth exploring.

Meta review

Not very well known outside of the region but reviews about the fortifications are very positive. It is by far the most interesting part of town and some visitors are a little underwhelmed by the rest.

Environmental & Social

The main activities in the city have a low carbon footprint. Tourism is a welcome injection of activity and revenues in the local economy.

Conclusion

Navarrenx is known for its medieval look and is certainly worth a visit if you are dedicating several days to the area. However, we would not drive more than 1h to see it - not because it is not worth it, but because you should find other attractions worthy of your time and closer to you in that part of France. Competition is tough ...

Key positive

Well-preserved defensive walls

Key negative

A little out of the way and not much to see besides the ramparts

Suitability

The town is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility but they will not be able to climb up and walk along the walls.

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

May 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:1h

est. visit time:2h 30m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningNo

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightOk

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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