Camping le Saillet

Nestled on the banks of the Gave de Pau river, Camping Le Saillet offers a delightful riverside camping experience in the heart of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, just minutes from the sights and culture of Lestelle-Bétharram. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway, a cycling adventure along the GR78 Way of St. James, or a peaceful nature break, this scenic retreat combines authentic French countryside charm with all the facilities modern campers crave.

Spread over approximately 4 hectares of shaded, flat, grassy terrain, the campsite features about 70 spacious pitches (120–150 m²) tucked between leafy hedges, offering privacy and room for tents, caravans, or motorhomes. Many plots are just steps from the river’s edge, perfect for watching the mountain stream flow by as you relax.

Le Saillet’s facilities are designed for comfort and convenience. Enjoy two modern sanitary blocks with accessible showers and toilets adapted for guests with reduced mobility. There are water supply points throughout the grounds, a motorhome service area with wastewater disposal, and a hose reel for toilet cassette emptying.

Recreation and social spaces abound: the outdoor swimming pool (open mid-May to end of September) offers a refreshing dip under the Pyrenean sun, while sports lovers will find tennis courts, a pétanque field, football pitch, fronton court, ping-pong, badminton, and a skate park—all free and available for use, with equipment to borrow.

Relaxation and entertainment are also part of the experience. The onsite snack bar is a lively hub where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner, along with refreshing drinks. Weekly concerts and world music evenings create a festive atmosphere, while creative activities like pottery, pebble painting, and mandala art bring families together. Free Wi-Fi is available in the reception and snack bar areas.

Additional conveniences include bike rental and bike loans, laundry facilities (washing machine and dryer), a library at reception, and optional rentals like fridge, sheets, towels, and more to make your stay hassle-free.

Camping Le Saillet is perfectly positioned near a host of natural, cultural, and leisure attractions. The historic village of Lestelle-Bétharram is only a 5-minute walk away, where you’ll find restaurants, bars, a bakery, small shops, pharmacy, and a Thursday evening local farmers’ market featuring local produce, artisanal woodwork, teas, and spices — an authentic taste of Béarn life.

Culture and history are just around the corner. Visit the stunning Bétharram Sanctuary and its nearby Stations of the Cross, or wander through the fortified streets of the bastide town for views over the Pyrenees. Just a short drive brings you to iconic Pyrenean landscapes and attractions, including the Gavarnie Cirque, Ossau and Aspe valleys, the Bétharram Caves, and the scenic Voie Verte Pau-Lourdes cycling path — a paradise for cyclists and hikers alike.

Adventure seekers will appreciate the on-site direct access to the Gave de Pau for rafting, canoeing, kayaking, hydrospeed, and fishing, all set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Scenic hikes and cycling routes crisscross the countryside, rewarding outdoor enthusiasts with unforgettable views and fresh mountain air.

For families, the leisurely river strolls, shaded picnic spots, and nearby playgrounds make everyday relaxation an adventure. And if you’re keen to explore further, well-connected roads offer quick access to Pau or Lourdes for additional attractions and day trips.

Before you arrive, keep in mind that quiet hours are strictly enforced from 22:00 to 08:00, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep for all guests. This makes Le Saillet a perfect choice for families and couples looking to unwind under the stars.

Pets are welcome — dogs are permitted provided they are calm, vaccinated, tattooed or microchipped, and kept on a leash at all times. They should never be left alone, even inside accommodation.

Vehicle circulation inside the campsite is limited to guests’ own vehicles only, with a speed limit of 10 km/h, and no vehicle movement between 22:00 and 08:00 for safety and peace.

Reachable services like shops, bakeries, and cafes are just a short stroll away, meaning you can easily stock up on supplies or enjoy local cuisine without driving. The campsite reception team, fluent in French, English, and Spanish, can also help you book local activities, guided tours, hiking maps, and sightseeing recommendations.

Finally, make time to enjoy simple pleasures each day — a swim in the pool, a sunset by the river, or a spontaneous hike into the foothills of the Pyrenees. With its blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and genuine local culture, Camping Le Saillet invites you to make memories that will have you planning your next visit before you even leave.