Serres-Castet is a town in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, 10 km north of Pau.
Its territory of some 13 km² historically and culturally belongs to the province of Béarn. Crossed in particular by the courses of the Luy de Béarn and the Aïque Longue, it extends over the once marshy plain of Pont-Long dominated by a small plateau.
Although it has experienced a clear demographic increase, with today more than 4,300 inhabitants (against less than a thousand at the turn of the 1970s), the town still has 65% of agricultural land. Mentioned before the year 1000 as the seat of a small seigneury, the village which appeared in the plain gradually spread over the plateau around a small castle and a primitive chapel.
Nowadays, agricultural activity is supplemented by industry (aeronautical units). However, its bucolic landscapes and its offer of "natural" and cultural leisure activities make Serres-Castet a pleasant stopover near Pau and the peaks of the Pyrenees.
Its heritage elements bear witness to the history of the town. The remains of the fortified ensemble which made up the first village are thus visible. The primitive castle, on the other hand, gave way under the Ancien Régime to a more comfortable stately home. Seized during the Revolution, once remodeled, in the 19th century it became the town hall of the locality.
There are also old houses and farms (some dating from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries) which reflect the traditional architecture of Béarn.
Finally, the parish church of Saint-Julien which houses paintings and a glass roof referenced in the general inventory of cultural heritage deserves special attention: its "southern" chapel (or apse) in Romanesque style dates back to the 11th century and was the original castle chapel. The choir dates from the 14th century and has a resolutely Gothic style. The archers of the bell tower, the thickness of the walls of the building also prove that the church was adapted from the start, by its architecture of military aspect, to troubled times, which was not useless at the time. episodes of the Hundred Years War and those of Religion…
On the cultural level, the Alexis-Peyret center (named after a republican journalist native of the town who had to go into exile in Argentina after the coup d ' State of 1851) has a 300-seat theater that hosts quality shows throughout the year (plays, concerts, dance galas). Cinema sessions are also scheduled. Information on +33 5 59 33 11 66.
At the library, events (meetings, readings, conferences) are frequently organized. Information on +33 5 59 33 30 93.
As regards "nature" leisure activities and sports, it should be noted first of all that the town and neighboring villages have designed a Local Hiking Plan (PLR) comprising 19 loops (10 for mountain bikers, 9 for walkers). A total of 78 marked km are thus available which include the Bastard forest (wood of Pau) or the Balahn lake. Appropriate signage along the paths and old restored rural roads allow you to better enjoy the landscapes and heritage elements. It should also be noted that a loop is specifically dedicated to people with reduced mobility (itinerary suitable for wheelchairs or strollers). Maps and information on +33 5 59 33 90 08 or +33 5 59 30 01 30.
Along the way, do not hesitate to linger on the banks of the Arlas and Luy de Béarn: these preserved wetlands are recognized as constitute a heritage of great ecological value. Two observation platforms allow you to discover their biodiversity: swamp, wet moors, remarkable species (birds in particular). Contact the Conservatory of Natural Areas of Aquitaine on +33 5 59 32 65 19.
To combine sport and nature, a fitness area, a "poly-sports" field and a fitness trail are also located in the town in a wooded setting, Liben road.
It is also possible to book a tennis court (contact the club on +33 5 59 33 22 12), and in July and August, to enjoy the outdoor swimming pool with swimming pool and areas for relaxation (information on +33 5 59 33 17 56).
Every Saturday, on the aptly named Place des 4 Saisons, the market showcases local products from Béarn and the gastronomy of the region.
The first weekend of May, Salon des Petits tableaux at the Belvédère room, dedicated in particular to artists from the town.
The first Friday of July, "Salsa Night" evening in the village square with shows and demonstrations of South American dances.
At the end of August, over four days, town festival with balls, gourmet and fun activities, and traditional ceremonies.
Apéritif du Printemps - After Work
- On 30 april 2024
- Les 4 Pépins, Place des Quatre Saisons
- You're invited to experience a magical evening at our Apéritif du Printemps. Join us in an enchanting atmosphere, where exquisite flavors and enchanting music will merge to create an unforgettable experience. Discover Exceptional Wines and let yourself be transported on a gustatory journey through exceptional wine creations. Discover the subtle nuances and enchanting aromas of each grape variety, straight from the source ! Taste and savor the perfect marriage between authentic, flavorful Quintoa ham and refined wines. Enchanting Jazz atmosphere - Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of jazz with a live band that will enchant your senses throughout the evening.
Journées Départementales des Familles
- From 2 to 31 may 2024
- Centre Alexis Peyret
- Activities, conferences and shows to share with the whole family in the Luys en Béarn region. Come and take advantage of the program offered by the region's partner structures. - From birth : - may 2 : baby massage workshop - May 14 : nature walk - May 24 : introduction to multisports - May 31 : family music break - Ages 3 and up : - may 14 : parent/child activities - May 15 : "Garden, ecology and environment" reading break - May 16 : parent/child activities - May 22 : family baking workshop - May 25 : music and baking workshops - Ages 6 and up : - may 4 : intergenerational day - may 22 : family cinema - Adults : - may 7 : parents' time - May 22 : "Discovering a different brain" conference - And much more…
17ème Édition : Salon d'Art du Petit Format
- On 3 may 2024
- Chemin de la Carrère, Salle du Belvédère
- Exhibition of small-format sculptures and photographs.
Bal Gascon
- On 3 may 2024
- Centre Social Alexis Peyret, Rue Aristide Finco
- Introduction to traditional dances. Led by the Papar'oc group. Open to all
17ème Édition : Salon d'Art du Petit Format
- From 4 to 5 may 2024
- Chemin de la Carrère, Salle du Belvédère
- Exhibition of small-format sculptures and photographs.
Nénette la Rainette ou la Biodiversité Contée
- On 5 june 2024
- Site du L'arlas
- Nénette, the imaginary frog, takes children on a discovery of the animals and plants of the Arlas wetlands. We'll talk about what they eat, what floats and what doesn't, and the shapes that water takes. Biodiversity as in a fairy tale. - Registration required ! - Meet at 9:45 am at the chemin de Devezes parking lot in Serres-Castet.
Théâtre "Lançons les dés...Scénies !"
- On 7 june 2024
- Chemin de Liben, Salle Liben
- 6pm : "Lancerons les dés…scénies !" by Adapei de Sauvagnon. - 8:30pm : "A vous de gagner" by the adult 3 group.
Les 3 Heures du Soubestre
- On 9 june 2024
- Solo, duo or trio running in 3 hours. Complete as many 5.1 km loops as possible (elevation gain + 120 m). Registration on pyreneeschrono. Fr Numerous events (under development).
Marché des Producteurs de Pays
- On 29 june 2024
- Place des Quatre Saisons
- This market offers authenticity, conviviality and direct contact with the producer. In a festive, convivial atmosphere, come and dine in the company of local producers. You'll find drinks, starters, cheeses, main courses, side dishes and desserts.
