What to visit in the Basque Country ? The Pastoralism and Cheese Museum : a gourmet immersion
Discover an authentic place in the heart of the Basque CountryAgour : the Pastoralism and Cheese Museum in Hélette. From traditional pastoral life and artisanal Ossau-Iraty cheese-making, to delicious tastings, enjoy a unique cultural experience with family or friends. A must-see visit to dive into the Basque soul through its craftsmanship and flavors !
A unique place to understand the soul of the Basque Country
Wondering what to visit in the Basque Country ? Located in Hélette, at the foot of the majestic Mount Baïgura, the Agour Pastoralism and Cheese Museum offers a true sensory and cultural journey. Designed as a full immersion into the Basque pastoral world, this museum aims to share the traditions, ancestral know-how, and time-honored gestures that make our region so rich and unique.
Whether you're a curious traveler, a food enthusiast, or simply looking for an authentic family-friendly activity, our museum is a must-visit in the heart of inland Basque Country.
What to visit in the Basque Country with family ? An educational, fun, and accessible visit for all
From the moment you arrive, you are welcomed into a warm and modern space, fully dedicated to showcasing the pastoral and cheese-making heritage of the Basque Country. The visit is structured into several key experiences :
🐑 1. Pastoralism : between tradition and modernity
You're just starting out with an exhibition on Basque pastoralism :
- Discover local sheep breeds, including the Manex black head and red head
- Learn about traditional mountain herding techniques
- Explore the ancient practice of transhumance and life in the high-altitude pastures
Videos and historical objects, help visitors understand the crucial role of shepherds in maintaining the landscapes and preserving local traditions.
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🧀 2. Artisanal production of sheep cheese
Continue your visit with an immersive film that takes you through every step of making our renowned Ossau-Iraty PDO cheese — patiently aged by our expert cheesemakers.
🍷 3. Tasting and shop : a delicious moment of sharing
After the tour, enjoy a free tasting session ! Sample a range of our artisanal products and discover the authentic flavours of the Basque terroir.
Extend your visit with a stop at our shop, where you’ll find a wide selection of local specialties :
- Ossau-Iraty sheep’s cheese
- Pâtés, jams, honey, Irouléguy wines,
- And many 100% Basque gift ideas.
What to visit in the Basque Country in group ?
The museum is designed to delight both children and adults. We welcome school groups, families, associations, and corporate groups year-round with advance booking.
If you're wondering “what to visit in the Basque Country ?”, this visit offers far more than a traditional museum tour — it’s a true encounter with a region, its artisans, its landscapes, and its living traditions. It’s also an open window onto a rural lifestyle that’s respectful of nature and deeply rooted in local culture.
Why visit the Agour Museum in Hélette ?
- To learn about Basque pastoral traditions
- To discover the secrets of sheep cheese making
- To enjoy an authentic and gourmet experience
- To meet passionate local producers
- And above all… to treat your taste buds !
Experience the Agour world !
Through this museum, Cheese Factory Agour is committed to preserving and sharing a living heritage. Here, cheese is more than a product : it's a way of life, deeply connected to the land and the strong bond between people and mountains.
Looking to what to visit in the Basque Country, off the beaten path ? This museum is the perfect choice for local, sustainable, and people-centered tourism.
So... what to visit in the Basque Country ?
Start with a journey to Hélette, where you’ll discover the cheese, pastoralism, and basque way of life. An authentic, delicious, and unforgettable experience awaits you at Maison Agour — a place to learn, taste, and share an unforgettable memory.
📍 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.
