Guide to Pyrénées-Atlantiques & Houses in Department 64

Pyrénées-Atlantiques is a department located in the southwestern part of France. It is a beautiful region that covers the French Basque Country and Béarn. The name Pyrénées-Atlantiques is derived from the Pyrénées Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, two of the region's most prominent geographical features. The department is part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine, famous for its history, stunning landscapes and unique Pyrenean culture. Pyrénées-Atlantiques is a province bordering Spain with strong cultural and economic ties. The department shares borders with other departments, including Hautes-Pyrénées, Landes and Gers. Its original name was Basses-Pyrénées, and it was created during the French Revolution in 1790, making it one of the first 83 departments of France. Pyrénées-Atlantiques was formed from parts of the former provinces of Guyenne, Gascony and the Béarn-Navarre.

Significant Towns in Pyrénées-Atlantiques

The department has several significant settlements, including Pau, Oloron-Sainte-Marie, Orthez, Biarritz, Bayonne, Anglet, Urrugne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye. Pau is the largest city in the department, with a population of approximately 145,000 and a workforce of around 344,000 in the local area. It is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, known for its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and excellent museums.

The Bayonne-Anglet-Biarritz Urban Area

Meanwhile, Bayonne - Anglet - Biarritz is the second-largest urban concentration in the department, with a population of about 166,400 inhabitants and a workforce of around 235,000 individuals in the local area. This area is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional restaurants. The two urban concentrations are located east and west of the department.

Culture and Industry

Pyrénées-Atlantiques is also renowned for its distinctive Basque culture, stunning beaches, and breathtaking mountain ranges. The department is also home to various industries, including agriculture, tourism and telecommunications. Pyrénées-Atlantiques is an enchanting region that offers a unique blend of French and Basque culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

Key Information about the Pyrénées-Atlantiques (64)

• Main City/Prefecture: Pau
• Nearest International Airport: Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport
• Population: Around 690,000 (as of the latest census)
• Area: 7,645 sq. kilometres and 2,951 sq. miles
• Landmark: Château de Pau, the birthplace of King Henry IV of France.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 4 million, attracted by the Coast, the sea, the Pyrenean mountains and cultural heritage.

Types of Properties for Sale in Pyrénées-Atlantiques

Whether you prefer Basque coastal living or the tranquil Béarnaise countryside, Pyrénées-Atlantiques offers an excellent lifestyle and diverse properties. It combines seaside elegance with mountain charm, featuring traditional Béarnaise and stone farmhouses, historic village homes, longères, modern villas, mansions and private estates. The region boasts high rental demand, superb landscapes, and a very unique mix of French and Basque traditions.

Most Common Property Styles

• Béarnaise Houses: Classic stone homes with steep roofs, typical of the plains.
• Basque Houses: Iconic timber-framed homes, from coastal towns to inland villages.
• Village Homes: Historic properties full of character.
• Country Houses & Mansions: Spacious rural estates and character maisons de maître, often with land and outbuildings.
• Luxury Homes: Villas, châteaux and estates with ocean or mountain views, combining modern comfort with charm.

Property Prices in Pyrénées-Atlantiques in 2025

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,617 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €4,627 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Price trends: +11% over the last 12 months, +70% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro)

2025 House Prices in the Main Towns in Pyrénées-Atlantiques

• Average House Price in Pau: €2,362 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Bayonne: €4,393 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Anglet: €6,401 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Biarritz: €7,670 per sq. metre

(source: Le Figaro - October 2025)

Explore Lifestyle & Property Listings in Pyrénées-Atlantiques

• Basque & Bearn’s Dual Appeal: Where the Pyrenees meet the Atlantic, this region offers Basque maisons rouges, mountain chalets, and seaside villas, often more lively than Landes and more affordable and less hectic than the Riviera.
• Year-Round Rental Potential: Properties in Biarritz, Pau, and Pyrenean resorts like Gourette and La Pierre Saint-Martin yield 7–12% annually, especially holiday lets in Saint-Jean-de-Luz or chalets near Oloron-Sainte-Marie.
• Unmatched Accessibility: Biarritz and Pau Airport (1h to Paris), TGV to Bordeaux (2h), and nearby Spain (30min to San Sebastián) make it ideal for international buyers and weekenders.
• Varied Climate & Activities: Sunny summers (25–28°C) for surfing, hiking the GR10, and pintxos feasts, paired with snowy winters (Dec–Mar).
• A Unique Lifestyle: A region famed for Basque fêtes, pelota matches, and markets selling local delicacies and produce. Life here combines mountain adventures, coastal relaxation, and a vibrant cultural identity.

If you are looking for a property in Pyrénées-Atlantiques, please get in touch to discuss your search criteria.