During my recent visit to Pau, a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees in southwestern France, I found myself captivated by the region’s beauty and history. Between the gentle strolls through its cobblestone streets and the sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, I also discovered a unique set of souvenirs that embody the essence of this picturesque place. From artisan crafts to local delicacies, Pau offers a wide range of keepsakes that tell the story of the region’s rich culture and heritage.
Here are the ten items I believe are truly worth bringing home from Pau:
1. Jurançon Wine
Pau is the heart of the Jurançon wine region, and no trip here is complete without sampling this iconic local beverage. The region’s vineyards stretch across the Pyrenees foothills, producing wines with a distinct taste and character. What makes Jurançon particularly special is its sweet white wine, made from the Petit Manseng and Gros Manseng grapes. I had the opportunity to tour several local vineyards and learn about the intricate process of making these wines. The warmth of the sun, the unique soil, and the traditional techniques all contribute to the depth of flavor.
I couldn’t resist bringing a few bottles back home with me. The golden hues of Jurançon, with its hints of honey, citrus, and tropical fruits, are perfect for sipping on a quiet evening. A bottle of this wine makes for an excellent gift, offering a taste of Pau that’s hard to forget.
2. Local Honey
The region’s biodiversity is mirrored in its local honey. Pau and its surroundings produce a variety of honey, each with its own unique flavor profile depending on the flowers the bees visit. I stumbled upon a small artisan shop in the heart of Pau, where they sold a selection of local honeys. The most memorable one was the chestnut honey. It had a robust, earthy flavor that complemented the floral sweetness.
Honey, a symbol of local craftsmanship, is a perfect souvenir for those who appreciate gourmet food. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone simply looking for a sweet gift to take home, a jar of Pau honey captures the essence of the region’s natural bounty. The jars come in beautifully designed packaging, making them an ideal memento of your visit.
3. Pau’s Traditional Souvenir Plates
One of the most charming souvenirs you can bring home from Pau is a traditional ceramic plate. Hand-painted with scenes of the town’s landmarks, such as the Château de Pau or the Pyrénées mountains, these plates are both functional and decorative. I found several artisan shops selling these beautifully crafted items, each with its own interpretation of Pau’s culture.
What I love about these plates is that they are not mass-produced. Each one is a little different, with slight variations in color and design. These make for perfect home décor pieces, adding a touch of French elegance to any room. Whether you choose one featuring the iconic Château de Pau or a more abstract design representing the local landscape, these plates are a timeless reminder of Pau’s artistic traditions.
4. Béarnaise Knives
Pau is located in the Béarn region, which is known for its rich history and culture. One of the most iconic products from this area is the Béarnaise knife, a traditional folding knife known for its craftsmanship. These knives are not only functional but also highly collectible. Made from high-quality steel, with handles carved from wood or bone, Béarnaise knives are both beautiful and practical.
I bought a beautifully crafted knife from a local workshop. It had an intricate wooden handle, and the blade was perfectly balanced. A Béarnaise knife is not just a souvenir; it’s a piece of the local history, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Béarnese people. If you’re someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, this knife is an exceptional souvenir to bring back home.
5. Béarnaise Pottery
Pottery in the Béarn region has been a tradition for centuries, and Pau’s local artisans still create beautiful hand-thrown pieces. The pottery here is typically made with earthy colors and simple, elegant designs, often inspired by the natural surroundings. I visited a local pottery studio and was amazed at the care and attention to detail that went into each piece.
The handmade bowls, mugs, and vases all felt like pieces of art, with a warmth that came from being shaped by hand. Many of these pieces feature traditional motifs or the deep blue and green colors found in the region’s landscapes. A hand-crafted pottery piece from Pau would be a great reminder of the town’s artistic heritage. Whether you opt for a small decorative vase or a functional dinnerware set, these pottery items are both practical and beautiful.
6. Pau’s Sweet Treats: Macarons
Macarons are famous throughout France, but Pau has its own twist on this delightful treat. While you’ll find macarons in many French patisseries, Pau’s versions often come with local ingredients like local honey or Jurançon wine. These macarons have a delicate, airy texture that melts in your mouth, with flavors that range from sweet to savory.
I discovered a small patisserie tucked away in a corner of Pau where I sampled macarons filled with honey and a rich, creamy filling made from local Jurançon wine. They were unlike any macarons I had tasted before. Beautifully packaged, these sweet treats make for a perfect edible souvenir that you can share with friends and family back home or savor by yourself.
7. Handmade Leather Goods
Pau’s artisans also specialize in high-quality leather goods, and there are plenty of shops where you can find beautifully made handbags, wallets, belts, and more. The leather used is soft and durable, and the designs are elegant and timeless. I found a small boutique where they sold handcrafted leather bags, each one unique, made with attention to detail and care.
I bought a small leather wallet, the soft tan leather aged beautifully over time. The leather goods from Pau are perfect for those looking for a long-lasting, practical souvenir. They also make for great gifts, adding a touch of French sophistication to anyone’s collection.
8. Vintage Postcards and Prints
The historic charm of Pau is captured in many of the vintage postcards and prints sold in the local shops. These prints often feature scenes of the town’s famous landmarks, such as the Château de Pau, or the majestic views of the Pyrenees mountains. Some of these vintage prints date back to the early 20th century, offering a glimpse into the past.
I picked up a few of these old-fashioned postcards, each one a little piece of Pau’s history. Some were beautifully framed, while others were simple reproductions of antique designs. If you’re into photography or history, a vintage postcard or print can be a great souvenir to hang on your wall or add to your collection.
9. Herbal Tea Blends
The Pyrenees region is known for its herbs, many of which are used in teas and medicinal concoctions. I found a few charming herbal shops in Pau selling locally sourced herbal tea blends. These teas are made from a variety of plants, including thyme, lavender, and rosemary, which grow abundantly in the region.
I purchased a tea blend that included lavender and chamomile, perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. These herbal blends, packed with the fragrances of the Pyrenees, make for an aromatic and calming souvenir. Whether you’re a tea lover or just someone who enjoys unique flavors, a bag of local tea can transport you back to the tranquil atmosphere of Pau.
10. Pyrenean Cheese
The Pyrenees region, including Pau, is home to some incredible cheeses, each with distinct flavors and textures. While in Pau, I visited a local fromagerie where I sampled various cheeses, including the famous Ossau-Iraty, a sheep’s milk cheese with a rich, nutty flavor. The cheese is aged for several months, developing a firm texture and complex taste.
I bought a small wheel of Ossau-Iraty to take home, and it has become a favorite in my cheese collection. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or just someone who enjoys trying new flavors, bringing back some local Pyrenean cheese is a great way to extend your trip through your taste buds.
Pau may be a small town, but it is packed with culture, history, and unique finds that make it a wonderful place to explore and take souvenirs from. Each of these items reflects the essence of Pau, from its breathtaking natural surroundings to its deeply rooted artisan traditions. Whether you’re taking home a bottle of local wine or a beautifully crafted knife, these souvenirs will help you remember your time in this charming French town for years to come.
