PRETTY FRENCH FARMHOUSE

	FISHING The abundance of local gaves (rivers) provide numerous places to fish for brown, rainbow and sea trout as well as salmon, barbell and black bass. Permits are needed and cost about 20 euros for 15 days, they can be bought in Navarrenx at Le Poisson Roy. There are also local guides who will take you out for half or full day fly fishing tuition.
	WALKING AND CYCLING The most famous walking route which goes through Hopital St Blaise is the pilgrim route of 'St Jacques de Compostelle' however there are numerous beautiful walks nearby and also many off-road forest cycle routes marked VTT to explore. Cycle hire is possible from Pret a Rouler in Navarrenx (see www.pret-a-rouler.com 0559661976) who will deliver cycle and also offer accompanied cyle rides. The Tour de France passes nearby annually in June (www.letour.fr).
	WHITE WATER RAFTING As there are so many gaves (rivers) nearby there are many places from which to partake in this activity. Navarrenx is the closest site for this (just 10 minutes drive away) but there are a host of other sites including Oloron, Mauleon and Sauveterre.
	MARKET SHOPPING French markets are always a pleasure to visit! A comprehensive list of all local markets is available in the farmhouse.
	HORSERIDING There are two horse riding stables nearby and also treks through the Pyrenean foothills which can include overnight stops.
	SKIING The farmhouse is approximately 50 minute drive from the nearest ski resort - La Pierre St Martin (www.lapierrestmartin.com). Gourette is slightly further away and a larger ski resort (www.gourette.com). Artouste provides a small scenic resort. More information can be found at www.n-py.com. However it is fair to say that these resorts are much cheaper and usually less crowded than many other European resorts. La Pierre St Martin is particularly suitable for beginners. Its also great for snow boarding and sledging and is open until the end of April most years according to snow conditions.
GOLFING Pau has two golf courses, Pau Billere is the oldest and has a wonderful old clubhouse. Pau Artiguelouve has 18 holes over good parkland. Lourdes is a difficult course but very beautiful. Biarritz has an 18 hole golf course. The costs are considerably cheaper than England. WINE TASTING The foothills south of Pau are home excellent Jurancon vineyards and there are many vineyards from which you can sample these wines.