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Museum · Cambo-les-Bains, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Villa Arnaga
House built from 1903 by writer Edmond Rostand, author of Cyrano de Bergerac, in the style of Basque houses, with French and English gardens. It is a museum, a listed historic monument and a Remarkable Garden.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Villa Arnaga
Edmond Rostand arrived in Cambo‑les‑Bains in 1900, after the success of Cyrano de Bergerac, to treat a pulmonary illness. Enchanted by the Nive valley, he bought land on the hill and had Villa Arnaga built from 1903, inspired by traditional Basque houses but on a mansion scale.
The interior was decorated with painted panels, bespoke furniture and reception rooms. Rostand lived there with his family for several years and wrote part of his work at Arnaga. The house now houses the writer’s mementos, manuscripts, costumes and objects linked to his plays.
The gardens are an essential part of the visit. On the main façade side, a French garden with reflecting pools, parterres and pergolas extends in perspective; on the other side, an English garden descends toward the valley. The gardens hold the Remarkable Garden label.
The town bought the villa in 1960. Arnaga is a listed historic monument, a French Museum and a House of the Illustrious.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour to an hour and a half for the house and gardens.
Best time
Open from April to early November. Spring, April to June, is the season for flowers in the gardens. Opening hours vary through the season; check before you go.
How to get there
It sits on the hill above the town, about a 15‑minute walk from the centre of Upper Cambo. By car, there is parking near the entrance.
Tip
Begin with the gardens before the sun grows strong, then enter the house. From the end of the French garden you can see the whole façade with the valley beyond.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Villa Arnaga
Who lived in Villa Arnaga?
The writer Edmond Rostand, author of Cyrano de Bergerac, with his family. He commissioned the house from 1903.
Is Villa Arnaga open all year?
No. It is open from April until early November, with hours that change through the season. Check before you go.
What is there to see in the gardens of Villa Arnaga?
A French-style garden with reflecting pools, flowerbeds and pergolas in front of the main facade, and an English-style garden that slopes down toward the Nive valley.