Shepherd's umbrellaShepherd's umbrellaChristophe Pando
©Shepherd's umbrella|Pau Pyrénées Tourisme | Laurent MOYNAT

When it rains! Top 5 ideas

Pau is great in the rain too!

Yes, we’d like it to be sunny all the time, but today it’s raining in Pau… But that’s no reason to get bored! Here are a few ideas to keep you busy on rainy and grey days… Alone or with family, friends or lovers, there’s no shortage of ideas for outings and activities. We’ve chosen our 5 favorite activities, but we’ve also got a few more in store for you. We bet you’ll be looking forward to the next rainy day!

1. Buy an umbrella 

Not just any umbrella, but a Pyrenean shepherd’s umbrella! In Pau, we’re fortunate to have the last remaining manufacturer who has been carrying on the family tradition of craftsmanship since 1968. Wooden handles, ribs, fabrics and quality craftsmanship… provide umbrellas for a lifetime! If you’re curious, Christophe, our friendly craftsman, will tell you the story of the shepherds who used to come to Pau to repair or buy the umbrellas that accompanied their long stays in the summer pastures, as they parked their herds before setting off on their transhumance!

2. Visit the castle Well protected

It’s the perfect time to visit the château. With a guided tour in the morning or a free afternoon, you’ll be safe and sound as you (re)discover the history of France and the Kingdom of Navarre. Superb collections of antique books and Gobelins tapestries, unusual pieces of furniture… you’ll be amazed by the wealth of treasures revealed by this noble residence. A must-see!

Indoor activities Forget bad weather!

3. Museum of Fine Arts Get away from it all

Every time, we say to ourselves that it would be nice to take the time to go there! So, as it’s raining, today’s the day! Hear the sound of drops on the skylight while admiring a Degas or a Rembrandt. Children will love Museum investigations!

4. Go to the media library Opening up new horizons

The agglomeration’s network of media libraries is offering a program of activities to keep rainy afternoons busy. Video game areas, access to the online press, books and unusual places to relax with a good book… You can even work or do your homework, alone or in a group!

5. Wet for wet Whitewater

Is it raining? No problem. As long as you’re wet, take a trip to the Aquasport park. Wetsuits, helmets, paddles… You’re all set, and we’re sure of two things: you won’t get cold because it’s sporty, and you’ll forget all about the rain. Go crazy, paddle in the rain!