Get away to Spain
Ancient conquering empire entrenched in a very old past, Spain, today more than ever, shows its cultural dynamism and its sense of celebration still unrivalled in Europe. Its proximity to Bearn easily allows you a day tour or more. After a trekk in the stony Pyrenean trails, enjoy a typical lunch in one of the numerous "sidrerias" and stay the night in a sumptuous traditional "parador". Landscapes, culture... Spain is definitely worth the try.
Once across the border, the greenery and lush of Bearn and Basque Country are quickly forgotten and you find yourself in huge arid spaces, western movie decors, like in the Bardenas desert or around Jaca. Indeed, in North of Spain, water is a treasure precious and vital to human communities. The Universal Exhibition in Saragossa will be held around this theme from June 14th to September 14th.
Located on the trails to Santiago de Compostela, millenary, with numerous abbeys, churches and monuments, the other Spanish towns are also worth it... such as Huesca, San Sebastien but as well Pampelona in Spanish Basque Country where every year in July the crazy and worldwide famous San Firmin feria takes place. And you should definitely experience the Sallent de Gallego Festival, next to Lanuza lake, which gathers each summer in a somptuous decor a great range of musics and international artists.
For those lovers of outdoor sports, Aragon region and Spanish Basque Country can satisfy all appetites with their numerous activities... wild water rafting in the Sierra de Guarra, rock climbing in the fabulous Mallos de Riglos, mountain biking in the Bardenas desert, but also skiing in top quality resorts (Candanchu, Astun, Formigal, Gabardito...). Welcome to Spain!