Set in the heart of the beautiful Béarn region in south-west France, our gites have been converted from the barns of our corps de ferme Bearnaise to a high standard. The vibrant small town of Monein is just two kilometres away and we are situated in the heart of the Jurancon vineyard region. On three hectares of farmland, we are surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, easily accessible via the myriad of chemins that join the villages and hamlets beyond our back gate.
You can access a host of activities from Gites de Bernet.
The stunning Pyrénées mountain range is clearly visible from our property and several ski resorts, both French and Spanish and ideal for both beginner and expert skiers, are within 1-2 hrs drive. Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, dog sleds and sledging can be found at, or near our local resort of La Pierre St Martin. The fantastic landscape is ideal for outdoor activities in the warmer months too.
A huge variety of other outdoor activities can be found nearby. The rolling landscape is a magnet for cyclists (the Tour de France passes close by each year). Hikers will find a host of trails through hills covered in vineyards, with fantastic mountain views, or in the mountains themselves. If you enjoy fishing, the world salmon fishing championships are held each year in nearby Navarrenx. The region has many streams full of trout and salmon and there are several fishing lakes too. The rivers are also ideal for white water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, canyoning and swimming - or, take it easy and enjoy a picnic while you try to spot dragonflies and kingfishers. Horse-riding is available in Monein and elsewhere. The stunning landscape, which forms the backdrop for all of these activities, is a draw for photographers and artists alike. The area is rich in wildlife; look out for some of the bird life such as cattle egrets, green woodpeckers, pied flycatchers, peregrine falcons and eagles.
The gites are in the heart of the Jurancon. The sweet white wines are renowned, being harvested late in the year, making them ideal as an aperitif. The dry Jurancon wine is harvested in the autumn and is a perfect accompaniment to fish, seafood and cheese. With many excellent vineyards just a short distance away, you are spoilt for choice! Tastings and tours can be arranged throughout the year. If you prefer red wines, the local Béarn reds and the Madiran, near Pau, are perfect with the local Brebis cheese, beef from the local Blonde d'Aquitane, duck and foie gras - all very typical of the region.
The historic & picturesque towns of Monein (2kms away), Navarrenx, Oloron, Orthez & Sauveterre de Béarn are close by & the spa town of Salies de Béarn, famous for its salt, is well worth a visit during your stay with us. All have many fetes throughout the year and restaurants where you can experience local cuisine.
A day trip to the historic and picturesque city of Pau, just 25 minutes away is not to be missed. With a host of cultural, sightseeing, shopping, culinary & sporting opportunities, to suit all ages.
If you have children, there are several outdoor climbing activity centres, a water park, municipal pool, bowling, animal parks, mountain train rides and lots more all within easy reach of our gites.
Visit the Coeur de Béarn tourism page for more information and inspiration. We will of course be very happy to advise you of the best places to go and things to do, depending on your interests during your stay with us.