Oloron-Sainte-Marie

At the confluence of the Aspe and Ossau, and dotted with beautiful bridges hanging over the water, the ancient capital of Upper Béarn is a surprise. The city has three historic districts: 1. surrounding the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie - construction started in 1102 and it was declared a World Heritage Site, which dates back to an Ibero-Celtic settlement called Iluro, 2. the quiet medieval district of Sainte-Croix, in the highest part of Oloron, 3. the neighborhood of Notre-Dame, by the river. The silhouette of the old village, with its pointed towers, slate roofs, and elegant chateaux, is enjoyed from the Bellevue Walk, a path that follows the ancient walls and the murmuring river.