Things To Do
in Oloron-Sainte-Marie

Sheep's-milk cheese from the Pyrénées, slightly nutty and firm; available at markets and from local affineurs.

Must-Try!

A thick vegetable and ham or confit soup/stew typical of the region, warming after a mountain hike and found in traditional bistros.

Duck prepared in the classic Southwestern French way — often served with potatoes and local greens at brasseries.

Chicken cooked with peppers and tomatoes, reflecting Basque influence and common on local menus.

A lively market (main market day on Saturdays, with smaller markets other days) where vendors sell cheeses, cured meats, seasonal produce, pastries and regional specialties — ideal for a picnic or street-snacking.

Occasional food stalls and seasonal vendors near the quays offering crêpes, charcuterie boards and local desserts during market days and festivals.

Always greet shopkeepers and acquaintances with 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening). Politeness matters in everyday interactions.

Conservative, polite behaviour is appreciated — use formal 'vous' with strangers. Friends may exchange cheek kisses ('la bise').

Wait until everyone is served before starting to eat; keep hands visible (not on the table) and say 'Bon appétit' before the meal.

Dress modestly and speak quietly in churches like the cathedral; photography may be restricted inside.

Service is typically included on restaurant bills (service compris). Leaving small change or rounding up for exceptional service is appreciated but not mandatory; tipping bartenders a few euros is common.

Credit and debit cards (chip-and-PIN) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; carry some cash for markets, small vendors and remote areas. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common.

Mild temperatures, blooming countryside and wet days — great for scenic walks and fewer crowds, but pack waterproof layers and prepare for variable weather.

Warm and often sunny with lively markets and outdoor festivals; perfect for hiking and river activities, though afternoons can be busy and some inland heat peaks.

Cooling temperatures and vivid fall colors in the valleys; a quieter time for visiting wineries and trails, with sporadic rain and crisp mountain mornings.

Chillier and wetter at town level, with snow in higher elevations — ideal for nearby ski resorts and cozy meals, but expect shorter daylight and occasional road impacts in the mountains.

Long-established residents with strong local traditions, often involved in agriculture, small business and regional crafts.

People who commute to larger nearby towns for work (e.g., Pau) and families who value the town's schools and community life.

Hikers, anglers and tourists who visit seasonally for outdoor activities and regional festivals.

Cultural and linguistic influences from nearby Basque Country are present in food, festivals and place names.

Rugby is extremely popular across southwestern France; local clubs and match culture are part of regional identity.

Road and mountain cycling are common, with many riders using the valley roads and mountain passes for training and touring.

Walking and mountaineering in the Pyrénées attract locals and visitors seasonally, from family hikes to technical ascents.

Fly-fishing and trout/salmon angling on the Gave and mountain streams are popular pastimes.