Magnolias and many other exotic species flourish in more than acres of green space, thermal springs abound and the clean mountain air seems to invigorate both body and soul. It was a time of optimism, regional peace and economic prosperity and with it came a massive influx of foreign aristocrats from England, Spain, Russia and America. To the great benefit of Pau, this resulted in the construction of majestic parks, grand villas, thermal baths, casinos and luxurious hotels such as the Hotel Gassion, which welcomed the likes of Princess Tatiana Konstantinovna of Russia, Prince Oscar of Sweden, and Queen Amelie of Portugal.
To cater for the burgeoning elite, grand balls became the order of the day, along with English hunting parties, complete with red velvet jackets, trays of fruit cake and a traditional pack of hounds. Both the Golf and hunting clubs are still in operation today, which, combined with the classically English grand villas, has resulted in an enduring Anglo influence. Sport A town as synonymous with prestige and frivolity as Pau, clearly needed a Grand Prix, and the first one was held in It was such a success, the annual Pau Grand Prix was inaugurated in , and with the exception of the years during the Second World War, has been running ever since.
The International race takes place in May around the centre of the city, where public roads are closed to form an undulating street circuit for races comprising: Formula One, Two and Three as well as a Vintage car race featuring the likes of Bugattis, Alfa Romeos and Minis. Another highly anticipated international sporting event held in Pau is the famous Les 4 Etoiles de Pau; an equestrian series that comprises one of the six 4-star competitions on the elite international eventing circuit.
Held at the end of October, this high adrenalin event draws huge crowds of equestrian enthusiasts, as well as their accomplished International horses and riders.
Of course, the Tour de France would not be complete without the gruelling climbs through the Pyrenees and although it changes its route each year, it never fails to go through Pau.
