Why is Salies-de-Béarn known as the ‘city of salt’?

Salies-de-Béarn developed around a saltwater spring. Salt extraction and trade have left a lasting mark on its history, heritage and traditions.

What is there to see in Salies-de-Béarn on a day trip?

You can explore the old town, discover Bayaà Square, visit the Salt Museum and the salt works, and then take a break in the public gardens.

Can you visit the Salies-de-Béarn saltworks?

Yes. The Salines museum complex showcases the salt-making process. Please check opening times, admission prices and visitor conditions before you visit.

What can you discover at the Salt Museum?

The museum traces the origins of salt, its extraction and trade. It also explains the role of the Part-Prenants in the history of Salies-de-Béarn.

Can you visit the thermal baths without taking part in a spa treatment programme?

Yes, certain health and wellbeing services are available without a treatment programme. Packages, opening hours and eligibility criteria vary depending on the time of year.

What is the legend of the Salies-de-Béarn wild boar?

Tradition has it that a wild boar found covered in salt crystals revealed the existence of the salt spring that gave rise to the town.

Is Salies-de-Béarn an easy place to visit with the family?

Yes. The historic centre, the museum and the discovery trails are ideal for a family day out. Do check the recommended age for certain tours, though.

©
Salt Festival 2022
|
Pays de Béarn / Adrien Basse-Cathalinat

Salies-de-Béarn The white gold of Béarn

Since ancient times, salt has made Salies-de-Béarn a prosperous town. Extracted from the saltwater spring that once irrigated the marshes, this ‘white gold’ has made the town famous and has imbued the water flowing from the Mude spring with all its benefits. Today, the village has retained all its charm. Salies-de-Béarn offers a delightful detour – a destination well worth discovering for a moment of relaxation and enjoyment!

Getting there

©
Salies De Bearn Cascade Pays De Bearn Adrien Bassa Cathalinat
|
Pays de Béarn / Adrien Basse-Cathalinat

©
Sel De Salies 001 Otbdg Guilbot
|
Otbdg Guilbot

No salt, no Salies!

This charming town in Béarn owes its fame and prosperity to salt. Since ancient times, and as its name suggests, it has been known for its saltwater spring, the salt from which was essential for preserving food, particularly meat.

The salt from the Pyrenean soil enriches the water of Salies with numerous trace elements and gives it recognised therapeutic properties. In the 19th century, the town experienced a new boom thanks to the construction of the thermal baths. Echoing the climatic appeal of its ‘big sister’, Pau, the resort atmosphere attracted a wealthy clientele who enjoyed staying in prestigious hotels, gambling at the casino and coming to ‘take the waters’.

The Hôtel du Parc, the Hameau Bellevue, as well as the pretty streets lined with old houses and the Pont de la Lune… all combine to create a charming setting, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll before popping over to the thermal baths for a spot of pampering. This should convince you once and for all that this lovely town was well worth spending a little time in!

Discover

White gold

Salies-de-Béarn salt has been present underground for 2 million years. Protected within pockets of salt water, it is a rock salt of exceptional purity. Brought to the surface via a spring discovered in the Middle Ages, its harvesting was then reserved for the ‘Parts-Prenants’, members of local families. Extraction is carried out by evaporating the water in the sun in salt pans: the salt first crystallises into ‘fleur de sel’ of exceptional whiteness, then into large, very pure salt crystals. It is recognised by a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).

Salies-de-Béarn salt is used for curing food: this is how the famous Bayonne ham came into being: Béarn pork, cured with the highly renowned Salies salt, was exported via the Basque port of Bayonne, which gave it its name! A ham that was already a favourite of Jeanne d’Albret!

The thermal baths

The spring’s unique mineral water (containing 26 minerals and trace elements) is still used today for therapeutic purposes in the treatment of rheumatic conditions, gynaecological conditions, female infertility and developmental disorders in children. But whilst the thermal baths are a place for treatment, they also offer a space for rest and relaxation: take the time to enjoy the benefits of the Spa les Bains de la Mude! Treat yourself to the ‘Escale Sensorielle’ for a moment of pleasure from which you’ll emerge feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

The healing properties of Salies’ water have been known since time immemorial, but it was in 1852 that Dr Nogaret demonstrated its therapeutic benefits. In 1857, a spa complex was built. In response to the growing popularity of the spa treatments, it was expanded at the end of the 19th century. Following a fire during its heyday, the building was rebuilt: you’ll no doubt notice an oriental feel to its beautiful façade and interior!

©
Thermes De Salies De Bearn Winter Unduvetpour2
|
Aadt64 / Unduvetpour2

By car

You’ll need to drive from Pau to Salies-de-Béarn. Take the A64 motorway and then the Salies-de-Béarn exit (50 minutes), or the country road (1 hour 10 minutes) to enjoy the scenery and the Béarn countryside.

By motorhome

Salies-de-Béarn is the perfect stop-off on your road trip through the Béarn region. A dedicated, fully equipped motorhome site awaits you just 300 metres from the thermal baths, the casino and the town centre.

Tourist Office

The Béarn des Gaves Tourist Office will help you make the most of your time in Salies-de-Béarn and provide you with all the advice you need for a wonderful stay!

Walks and hikes

You’re right in the heart of Béarn: why not put on a pair of sturdy shoes and set off to explore the region on our walking routes?

The Salt Museum

The Salt Museum in Salies-de-Béarn traces 4,000 years of history. You’ll learn all about the origins of salt, archaeological discoveries dating back to the Bronze Age, and the history of the salt miners… From the salt trade to spa treatments, and from the formation of salt beneath the Pyrenees to its harvesting, an engaging tour takes you on a journey of discovery through the ‘white gold’ of Salies-de-Béarn and its history!