Under the generous summer sun, the sea air mingles with the scent of pine trees and the nearby Basque mountains. This stage invites you to savour the perfect duality of the region: the vivacity of the Atlantic rollers on one side, and the shaded serenity of fresh waters on the other. A true hymn to holidays, relaxation with your feet in the water and the sweetness of life.

To discover:

• The Lac de Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle: This freshwater haven of peace, nestled in the heart of unspoilt nature, is ideal for a supervised family swim or a stand-up paddle session on its fine sand beaches.

• The Plage de la Milady in Biarritz: A change of scenery on this large beach open to the open sea, the perfect place to watch the surfers' ballet or try swimming in the waves to the regular rhythm of the ocean.

• The Rocher de la Vierge in Biarritz: The absolute emblem of the city, this footbridge built by Gustave Eiffel takes you out over the waves during a must-do walk (30 minutes) to feel the power of the ocean.

Cooling Off: The most beautiful spots for a swim

• The Lac de Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle: Calm and temperate water, perfect for swimming serenely far from ocean currents.

• The Plage du Port Vieux (Biarritz): A small cove sheltered from the winds and strong waves, a true natural pool ideal for a refreshing swim in complete safety.

The TToro: This traditional fish stew from the Basque coast slowly simmers hake, monkfish and shellfish, enhanced with a touch of Espelette pepper.

The journey gently leaves the coastline to head into the intimacy of the inland countryside, where green hills begin to roll under the summer sun. Montfort welcomes you with a peaceful atmosphere, punctuated by the singing of cicadas and the coolness of small hidden streams. It is the ideal stage to slow down the pace, savour the surrounding nature and enjoy a bucolic break far from the hustle and bustle of the coast. To discover:

• The Voie Verte de Chalosse: Created along a former railway line, this fully shaded trail invites you to a rejuvenating bike ride (allow 2 hours for the stroll) in the cool under the trees and along secret little brooks.

• The Musée de la Chalosse: Located on a typical agricultural estate, this living site offers a cultural and shaded immersion (1h30 self-guided tour).

Cooling Off: The secret spot

• The Berges du Luy: Just a few minutes from the centre, the tree-lined banks of this pretty river offer an idyllic setting for a picnic with your feet in the cool water, enjoying an oasis of natural freshness.

The Confit de Canard de Chalosse: This noble and meltingly tender meat, slowly cooked in its own fat, expresses all the generosity and expertise of this gourmet region.

Arriving in Morlaàs, the former historical capital of the Viscounts of Béarn, the horizon widens, revealing the majestic silhouette of the Pyrenees. The summer air there is sweet and light, perfect for strolling through the history-steeped streets of this hilltop town. Here, water becomes more discreet but remains essential, winding along the valley floors or gushing from the heart of the town's fountains. To discover:

• The Église Sainte-Foy et son portail roman: A true jewel of medieval architecture, the coolness of this church's old stones offers an ideal refuge to admire its incredibly finely sculpted portal.

• The Vignoble du Madiran et du Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh: Located on the hillsides just north of the town, these historical wine estates welcome you for a shaded stroll through the heart of the vineyards or a refreshing tasting (allow 1h30 for the visit). The white Pacherenc, particularly fruity and served well chilled, is the perfect companion for sweet late summer afternoons.

Cooling Off: By the lake

• The Base Nautique du Lac de Gabas: Located in the immediate vicinity, this vast stretch of water invites you to a contemplative stroll facing the Pyrenees mountain range (allow 2 hours to walk around it). A perfect space to rent a canoe or a kayak and enjoy the shaded lawns by the water to feel the freshness of the mountain breezes.

Ossau-Iraty cheese: This PDO sheep's milk cheese with a mild and fragrant character is traditionally savoured enhanced with a touch of local black cherry jam.

The end of the journey plunges you into the heart of the spectacular Ossau Valley. Here, the mountain stands majestic and powerful, and water is queen: it roars in the mountain rivers, cascades down rocky walls and sleeps in high-altitude lakes. The pure, crisp air of the peaks sweeps away the summer heat, offering an exceptional playground where coolness is everywhere, invigorating and wild. To discover:

• The Village de Laruns: This authentic mountain village vibrates all summer long to the rhythm of its farmers' markets, where its stone fountains distribute pure, icy glacial water.

• The Plateau du Bénou et les Cromlechs de Buzy: Head up high onto this unique pastoral plateau (1 hour stroll). Surrounded by free-roaming horses, you will discover mysterious prehistoric stone circles facing the peaks.

• The Petit Train d'Artouste: Climb aboard the highest tourist train in Europe (allow a half-day excursion). This open-air railway adventure winds at an altitude of 2,000 metres through the heart of the wild nature of the Pyrenees.

Cooling Off: The living waters of the mountain

• The Espace Naturel du Lac de Castet: A wooded site ideal for renting a boat or a kayak in the shade of the marsh willows, and dipping your feet into the calm and cool waters of the mountain river.

• The Berges du Gave d'Ossau: Near Izest, small pebble coves by the torrent allow you to find spots of absolute freshness to recharge your batteries in complete freedom.

The Gâteau Basque aux Myrtilles sauvages (Basque Cake with Wild Blueberries): This mountain version combines a crunchy shortcrust pastry with a fruity heart of wild blueberries hand-picked on the Pyrenean slopes.