Pyrénées-Atlantiques

Département in the Aquitaine region of France on the Spanish frontier; area 7,629 sq km/2,946 sq mi; population (2001 est) 606,900. The River Adour, fed by many mountain torrents, flows through it. In the south are the peaks of the western Pyrénées, giving way to the wooded hills, heathland, and fertile valleys of the Basque Country, and the plateau of the northeast. Wheat, maize, and vines are produced; mules, horses, sheep, and pigs are raised, and there are agro-industries. Fishing is important, and there are hydroelectric installations, oil, natural gas, and a chemical-waste treatment plant near Lacq. Other industries include metallurgy, aeronautical engineering, and textiles. Tourism is also an important source of revenue for the region. The capital is Pau. Other towns include Bayonne and Orolon.

Pyrénées-Atlantiques was formed from the former provinces of Béarn and Gascony. During the 19th century the area became a favourite retreat for the British, who visited its spas. The influence of the British can be seen in the construction of the first golf course in France and the introduction of steeple-chasing and fox-hunting.