What to do in the Basque Country when it rains ? Discover the Pastoralism and Cheese Museum
🌧️ What to do in the Basque Country when it rains ? Don’t let a grey sky stop you ! Bad weather is actually the perfect excuse to explore the region’s rich cultural and culinary heritage in a different way. If you’re wondering what to do in the Basque Country when it rains, head to Hélette — a charming village in inland Basque Country — for a cozy, indoor, and flavorful visit to the Agour Pastoralism and Cheese Museum.
A unique museum to immerse yourself in Basque culture… out of the rain !
Located inside the Agour Cheese Factory, the museum is fully indoors and perfectly suited for rainy days. It’s an ideal family-friendly, couple-friendly, or group activity when you’re looking for an alternative to hiking or beach outings.
No umbrella needed here — just follow a fun and educational guided tour where you’ll discover the secrets of Basque pastoralism and the traditional production of the famous Ossau-Iraty sheep’s cheese.
A cultural, culinary, and accessible experience
As soon as you arrive, you’re welcomed into a warm and modern space that combines living history, ancestral know-how, and authentic local flavors.
Here’s what you can expect during your visit :
🐑 Basque Pastoralism
- Exhibits on local sheep breeds (Manex black head and Manex red head)
- Historic tools and shepherding equipment
- Immersive videos on mountain life and transhumance
- A focus on the crucial role of shepherds in shaping the landscape
🧀 Cheese production
- A large-screen film tracing the steps in the production of Ossau-Iraty AOP sheep cheese
- Videos explaining the cheesemaking process, aging in cellars, and the work of master cheesemakers
🍽️ Free Tasting
- At the end of the tour, enjoy a complimentary tasting of Agour cheeses — including one awarded World’s Best Cheese twice !
- A cozy and welcoming moment that will lift your spirits no matter the weather
🛍️ Local Product Shop
- Stock up on regional specialties : sheep’s cheeses, pâtés, jams, honey, Irouléguy wines, and other gift ideas
Why visit this museum when it’s raining in the Basque Country ?
👉 Because it’s fully covered and suitable for all ages
👉 Because it combines culture, gastronomy, and local heritage
👉 Because it offers an authentic Basque experience, no matter the weather
👉 Because it’s free — with a tasting included
👉 Because you’ll leave more knowledgeable… and full!
When it rains, Basque heritage moves to the inside
So, what to do in the Basque Country when it rains ? Step off the beaten path and walk through the doors of the Pastoralism and Cheese Museum in Hélette. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the soul of the Basque Country, enjoy its culinary treasures, and leave with a full heart — and satisfied taste buds — even under grey sky.
📍 Practical Information
- Address : Fromagerie Agour, Z.A. Ur Zabaleta, Route de Louhossoa, 64640 Hélette
- Phone : 05 59 37 63 86
- Store opening hours : Monday to Saturday
- Museum tours : 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., and hourly during summer
- Visit duration : approx. 45 minutes
- Admission : Free – Complimentary tasting in the shop
- Accessibility : parking lot, wheelchair access, on-site boutique
👉 For group bookings, feel free to contact us in advance to plan your visit.
