Active buyers in France should consider buying a property in Pyrénées-Atlantiques, where you can ski in the morning and surf in the afternoon, and property still offers value.
For many overseas buyers, the dream of owning a home in France often leads to the same destinations: Provence, the Dordogne or the glamorous resorts of the Côte d’Azur.
However, buyers searching for property in Pyrénées-Atlantiques are increasingly discovering one of France’s most attractive yet overlooked regions. Tucked away in the country’s southwest corner, the department combines some of France’s most desirable qualities in a single destination. Here, you can surf Atlantic waves in the morning, hike mountain trails in the afternoon and enjoy dinner in a historic market town by evening.
Contents
Stretching from the Basque coast to the foothills of the Pyrenees, the department offers an enviable outdoor lifestyle, a mild climate and easy access to both Spain and the rest of France. Best of all, buyers willing to look beyond the famous coastal resorts can still find excellent value for money.
While Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz attract international attention, inland towns such as Salies-de-Béarn, Sauveterre-de-Béarn and Navarrenx continue to offer characterful property in Pyrénées-Atlantiques at prices that would be difficult to find in many of France’s better-known hotspots.
A region built for outdoor living
The Pyrénées-Atlantiques is uniquely positioned between two of Europe’s most dramatic natural environments: the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees mountains.
For active buyers, that means an extraordinary range of outdoor pursuits within easy reach. Surfers head to the world-famous beaches of Biarritz, Anglet and Hossegor, while walkers and cyclists can explore hundreds of kilometres of countryside trails through Béarn and the Basque Country. In winter, the ski slopes of La Pierre Saint-Martin are little more than an hour from many parts of the department.
According to local estate agent Sophie Folley, the outdoor lifestyle is one of the strongest attractions for international buyers.
“It’s hugely important,” she says. “The activities buyers mention most often are surfing, skiing, hiking, cycling and fishing.”
As usual, the Tour de France will be heading here this summer too, with stage 6 heading off from Pau into the mountains. And if you prefer your outdoor activities a little less sweaty, there are some excellent golf courses around Pau and Salies-de-Béarn and especially links courses near Biarritz and Hossegor.
Why property in Pyrénées-Atlantiques offers better value
Few places embody the glamour of southwest France quite like Biarritz, with its elegant architecture right on the beach that’s attracted royalty for centuries. But also swarms of surfers, waiting for the great Atlantic rollers ad brining that fun surf-vibe to its bars. It remains one of the country’s most desirable coastal destinations.
However, that popularity comes at a price, and according to Sophie, the average property price in Biarritz is around €10,000 per square metre. In Salies-de-Béarn, by comparison, buyers can expect to pay closer to €2,500 per square metre.
That difference has encouraged many international buyers to widen their search area when looking for property in Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
“I would say you get better value for money in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques,” Sophie explains. “It’s a relatively undiscovered corner of France and consequently prices are much more reasonable than in the south-east.”
For buyers seeking space, gardens and countryside views, inland Béarn often delivers far more property for the same budget than France’s most famous coastal destinations.
Salies-de-Béarn: a village with it all
One of the towns attracting growing international interest is Salies-de-Béarn.
Known for its historic thermal spa, attractive riverside setting and lively community, the town occupies a strategic position between the Atlantic coast and the Pyrenees. Biarritz and the beaches of the Basque coast are around 45 minutes away by car, while the nearest ski resort at La Pierre Saint Martin can be reached in just over an hour.
This unique location allows residents to enjoy a remarkably varied lifestyle throughout the year.
“Salies-de-Béarn is a very popular choice with our international buyers,” says Sophie. “It’s quite rare to find somewhere that offers such easy access to both the coast and the mountains.”
The town itself has all the ingredients many overseas buyers seek: traditional architecture, weekly markets, cafés, restaurants and a welcoming community. Unlike some seasonal destinations, it remains active throughout the year.
International interest is strong, particularly from British, German, Dutch and American buyers who are drawn by the combination of lifestyle and affordability.
How much property costs across the region
One of the biggest advantages of buying property in Pyrénées-Atlantiques is the wide range of options available across different budgets. While coastal towns command premium prices, buyers who look inland can often find significantly more space and character for their money.
Salies-de-Béarn
Known for its thermal spa heritage, picturesque town centre and relaxed pace of life, Salies-de-Béarn is a favourite among international buyers seeking authentic southwest France.
According to Sophie, buyers should expect to budget around €150,000 for a well-presented two-bedroom apartment. A comfortable house in the town centre can often be found from around €200,000, while a country home with some land typically starts from €300,000. Buyers willing to take on renovation work can often find opportunities at lower price points.
Orthez
Located around 20 minutes from Salies-de-Béarn, Orthez offers a practical mix of amenities, transport links and local services. The town appeals to buyers seeking a year-round base with easy access to the countryside.
Property prices remain attractive compared with many other parts of France, making Orthez a popular choice for buyers looking for value and convenience.
Navarrenx
Frequently ranked among France’s most beautiful villages, Navarrenx is a historic bastide town surrounded by rolling countryside. Its attractive setting, strong expat community and access to outdoor activities have made it increasingly popular with international buyers.
Character homes and traditional properties are particularly sought after, while the village’s charm and quality of life continue to attract newcomers from across Europe and beyond.
Pau
As the largest city in the department, Pau offers a different proposition. Buyers benefit from excellent healthcare facilities, shopping, cultural attractions and transport connections, all set against the backdrop of the Pyrenees. It was one of the first towns to become popular with international buyers, from as soon as the Napoleonic wars ended 200 years ago.
For those seeking a balance between city living and outdoor adventure, Pau provides an attractive alternative to France’s larger urban centres.
Biarritz
Biarritz remains the premium end of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques property market. Renowned for its beaches, surfing culture and elegant architecture, demand remains exceptionally strong.
The average price per square metre is around €10,000, making it one of the most expensive property markets in southwest France. Buyers are paying for location, lifestyle and direct access to the Atlantic coast.
There are suburbs such as Anglet within walking distance and offer a little more space for your money.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Combining Basque character with a more relaxed atmosphere than neighbouring Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz remains one of the most desirable towns on France’s southwest coast.
The town’s beaches, historic centre and year-round appeal continue to attract buyers seeking a coastal lifestyle, although prices remain significantly higher than in inland Béarn.
Who should consider buying property in Pyrénées-Atlantiques?
One of the strengths of the region is its broad appeal.
Retirees are attracted by the climate, healthcare facilities and relaxed pace of life. Families appreciate the space, outdoor activities and strong sense of community. Remote workers benefit from good transport connections and a lifestyle that balances productivity with wellbeing.
According to Sophie, there is no single buyer profile. “It suits people of all ages who enjoy outdoor activities, good food, wine and rugby.”
The split between primary residences and holiday homes is also surprisingly even, with roughly half of buyers planning to live in the area year-round and the other half purchasing second homes.
10 properties in Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Townhouse with garden and terrace
Location: Salies-de-Béarn, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €229,900
Bedrooms: 3
Size: 100m²
Description: Located in the popular spa town of Salies-de-Béarn, this attractive three-bedroom townhouse offers flexible accommodation and valuable outdoor space. The property features a bright open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, alongside two bathrooms, a dressing room and a balcony. A generous terrace provides plenty of room for outdoor dining and entertaining, while the low-maintenance garden includes a useful workshop and garden shed. Within walking distance of shops, restaurants, schools and the town’s many amenities, the house combines everyday convenience with easy access to both the Atlantic coast and the Pyrenees mountains.
Traditional Béarnaise farmhouse with mountain views
Location: Lucq-de-Béarn, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €250,000
Bedrooms: 5
Size: 134m² internal, 23,195m² plot
Description: Set within more than two hectares of land, this authentic Béarnaise farmhouse offers a rare opportunity to create a dream home in the French countryside. Built in 1886 from traditional river stone, the property enjoys breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and the rolling hills of the Béarn region. The farmhouse includes five bedrooms, a living room, dining room and shower room, while three adjoining barns provide significant potential for expansion or conversion, subject to the necessary permissions. Peaceful and secluded, yet within easy reach of transport links, ski resorts and the Atlantic coast, it offers an idyllic rural lifestyle with exceptional renovation potential.
Town-centre apartment in a medieval Béarnaise village
Location: Sauveterre-de-Béarn, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €108,000
Bedrooms: 1
Size: 57m²
Description: Situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Sauveterre-de-Béarn, this well-presented one-bedroom apartment offers an affordable foothold in one of southwest France’s most charming locations. The 57m² property features a bright open-plan living, dining and kitchen area, alongside a separate bedroom and a modern bathroom with a walk-in shower. Benefits include double glazing, electric heating and mains drainage. Within walking distance of shops, cafés and local amenities, it would make an ideal pied-à-terre, first home or rental investment in the beautiful Béarn countryside.
Stone village house with large garden
Location: Sus, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €240,000
Bedrooms: 3
Size: 140m² internal, 1,320m² plot
Description: This charming stone village house offers generous living space and a substantial garden in the peaceful village of Sus, just 3km from the historic bastide town of Navarrenx. Arranged over two floors, the property features a living room with fireplace, separate dining room, kitchen, three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Both the living room and kitchen open onto a delightful covered terrace, creating an ideal setting for outdoor dining and relaxation. With a garage, mains gas central heating and a large 1,320m² plot, the property combines traditional character with practical modern comforts in a sought-after Béarn location.
Townhouse in a historic spa town
Location: Salies-de-Béarn, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €149,000
Bedrooms: 3
Size: 102m²
Description: Located just a short walk from the lively market square of Salies-de-Béarn, this charming three-bedroom townhouse offers an affordable base in one of southwest France’s most attractive thermal spa towns. Arranged over three floors, the property features a kitchen, living room, three bedrooms, a dressing room and a cellar. Residents can enjoy easy access to cafés, restaurants, shops and healthcare facilities, all within walking distance. Ideally positioned between the Atlantic coast and the Pyrenees, the property is less than an hour from Biarritz and around 90 minutes from some of France’s best skiing destinations.
Renovated townhouse in a spa town
Location: Salies-de-Béarn, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €190,995
Bedrooms: 2
Size: 84m²
Description: Just a short stroll from the centre of Salies-de-Béarn, this beautifully renovated townhouse combines period character with modern comfort. Arranged over four floors, the property features a cosy living room with fireplace, a spacious kitchen and dining room, two bedrooms and a modern bathroom. Extensive upgrades include double glazing and comprehensive insulation to the walls, ceilings and roof, helping to improve energy efficiency and year-round comfort. Located in one of southwest France’s most attractive thermal spa towns, the house offers easy access to cafés, markets, restaurants and cultural events, making it an ideal permanent home or lock-up-and-leave retreat.
Béarnaise country house with guest annexe
Location: Salies-de-Béarn, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €299,000
Bedrooms: 2
Size: 132m² internal, 3,000m² plot
Description: Set in a peaceful countryside location just outside the popular spa town of Salies-de-Béarn, this charming former farmhouse offers character, flexibility and income potential. The property includes a cosy living room with wood burner, a kitchen-diner with pellet stove, two bedrooms and two shower rooms, while part of the ground floor is currently used as guest accommodation for holiday rentals. Surrounded by 3,000m² of land and bordered by a small stream, it enjoys a tranquil setting while remaining within easy reach of Biarritz, the Pyrenees and excellent transport links. Ideal as a permanent home, holiday retreat or lifestyle investment.
Country home with pool and mountain views
Location: Ance, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €399,000
Bedrooms: 4
Size: 210m² internal, 1,930m² plot
Description: Enjoying magnificent views of the Pyrenees, this spacious country home offers an idyllic rural lifestyle with the added benefit of a swimming pool and generous gardens. Arranged over three levels, the property includes four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a large living and dining room with wood burner, a mezzanine lounge and a garage. Set within nearly 2,000m² of grounds, it provides ample space for outdoor living while remaining close to local amenities. Just 35 minutes from the ski slopes and 20 minutes from the historic town of Oloron-Sainte-Marie, it combines tranquillity with excellent access to year-round leisure activities.
Stone country house with gîte and Pyrenean views
Location: Oloron-Sainte-Marie, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €400,000
Bedrooms: 4
Size: 170m² internal, 3,519m² plot
Description: Set in an elevated position with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pyrenees, this characterful stone house offers a rare combination of charm, comfort and income potential. The main house features spacious living areas, a kitchen-dining room and two en-suite bedrooms, while a separate 38m² gîte and an additional guest cabin provide flexible accommodation for visitors or holiday rentals. Recent improvements include a new septic tank, heat pump, double glazing and a renovated roof. Surrounded by mature gardens with fruit trees, the property enjoys a peaceful setting just outside Oloron-Sainte-Marie, within easy reach of both ski resorts and the Atlantic coast.
Renovated country house with wooded parkland
Location: Baigts-de-Béarn, Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Price: €475,000
Bedrooms: 5
Size: 259m² internal, 8,890m² plot
Description: Surrounded by almost 9,000m² of mature parkland, this beautifully renovated country house offers generous family accommodation in a peaceful setting close to the historic town of Orthez. Finished to a high standard throughout, the property features multiple reception rooms, a large living room with wood-burning stove, five spacious bedrooms, four bathrooms and a home office. Outside, the extensive grounds provide plenty of space for relaxation and outdoor living, while a garage, carport and storage buildings add practicality. Ideally located between the beaches of the Basque coast and the ski resorts of the Pyrenees, it offers the best of southwest France within easy reach.
