louon

Louon is a small commune located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in southwestern France. Covering an area of approximately 21.3 square kilometres, the village lies in the foothills of the Pyrenees and is part of the intercommunal structure known as the Communauté d'agglomération Pau-Camous. Its terrain is characterised by gently rolling hills and a mix of agricultural land and forested areas, with an average elevation of 156 metres, rising to a maximum of 325 metres. The postal code for Louon is 64240 and the INSEE code is 64272.

The population of Louon has fluctuated modestly over the past few decades. In 2017, the commune recorded 187 inhabitants, a slight increase from earlier counts that hovered around 170 residents in the early 2000s. The demographic profile shows a predominance of older adults, with a growing interest in retirees relocating to the area due to its tranquil setting and proximity to larger towns such as Pau and Camou-Cihigue.

Economically, Louon remains largely agricultural, with local farms primarily cultivating cereals, vines and orchards. Small-scale artisanal production, including cheese and wool products, complements the agrarian activities. The commune is also part of regional tourism initiatives that promote rural cycling routes, hiking trails and cultural heritage sites, notably the Château de Louon, a 17th-century manor house that now serves as a communal cultural centre.

Louon's municipal government is headed by a mayor elected for a six‑year term; as of the latest election, the mayor is Jean-Pierre Lemoine, serving since 2020. The commune falls under the jurisdiction of the Arrondissement of Pau and the Canton of Pays de Morlaàs et du Mont bound. Public services include a primary school, a town hall, and periodic markets that keep the local community connected.