This historic region is known for its dry and sweet white wines that pair beautifully with the local cuisine. Its long history dates back to the Middle Ages, when King Henri IV of Navarre was born here and, apparently, baptised with wine from the region.
On the outskirts of the town that gives its name to the wine region, Domaine Mont-Riant welcomes food and wine lovers to their heaven of peace. At the centre of a 3-hectare park, the 17th-century château, built in the traditional architecture of the Pyrenean foothills, offers five guest rooms, while the old, converted stables host self-catering apartments.
Stunning Countryside
Just 5 km from historic Pau and 3 km from the centre of Jurançon, the park and pool offer a peaceful oasis, surrounded by trees planted in the 19th century. From this promontory, sit back and enjoy views across to the famous Boulevard des Pyrénées in the nearby city of Pau to the east, and towards the Pic du Midi de Bigorre and the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenean mountains to the south. The vista is simply stunning.
Gastronomy
The name of the restaurant, Flaveurs, perfectly describes what you can expect. Chef Patxi, his wife Marylinn and his team offer a flavourful cuisine built around local produce.
Keen to reduce their carbon footprint, they focus on local vegetables, complemented by traditional livestock and fish from rivers and streams that have their source in the nearby Pyrenean mountains. A true reflection of local culinary tradition with a contemporary twist, which earned them the Best Of Or award for Culinary Experiences.
Wine Discovery
The wine list is a showcase for the local and historic Jurançon wines. Sommelier Alexis loves to share his passion for the too-often-overlooked wines from the region. His selection from local producers highlights the diversity of the region through his original approach. Organised by terroir and geology, he helps visitors discover the distinct character of the wines and the work of local wiinemakers. It’s a fascinating way to understand the resulting flavour and taste profiles.
His tutored tastings will arm you with new knowledge to explore the surrounding vineyards. Close to the sloping vines, you can venture out by bike or simply wander through the vineyards on foot.
They work with local tourism specialists to help visitors discover the region from historic Bastide towns and villages, Pyrenean ski excursions, bicycle tours and even yoga classes.
Keen to share the beautiful countryside and delicious food and wine of the region with as broad an audience as possible, Domaine Mont-Riant also welcomes seminars and conferences, where work, wine, and gastronomy go hand in hand.
Gastronomy and guest rooms at Domaine Mont-Riant, the perfect base to explore Jurançon’s stunning countryside and delicious wines.Gastronomy and guest rooms at Domaine Mont-Riant, the perfect base to explore Jurançon’s stunning countryside and delicious wines.Author: Wendy Narby - Insider Tasting Photo credits: Domaine Mont-Riant