chessChess in Pau
Pau has 3 chess clubs, including Club d'Echecs Pau Berlioz, Echiquier Henri IV Pau, Pau Sarrailh Echecs. This page collects everything about chess in Pau and nearby: the clubs with their venues, upcoming tournaments in the area from the national calendar, and the Chessmates app to find an opponent close to you. You don't need to speak French to join; chess needs no translation.
Chess clubs in Pau
The local club is the best way in: a weekly club night, training and team competitions. The clubs in Pau from the FFE register:
- Club d'Echecs Pau Berlioz
- Echiquier Henri IV Pau
- Pau Sarrailh Echecs
Do you run one of these clubs? Claim your entry for free; your club page on Chessmates takes a few minutes to set up.
Chess tournaments in the area
Upcoming tournaments within 30 km of Pau, from the official national calendar:
- 18Oct2026
Where can I play chess in Pau?
Pau has 3 chess clubs, including Club d'Echecs Pau Berlioz, Echiquier Henri IV Pau, Pau Sarrailh Echecs. Most clubs run a weekly club night where guests are welcome for a first game; venue and website are listed above.
Do I need to speak French?
No. Club nights in Pau run in French, but every club welcomes English speakers and chess needs no shared language. The board does most of the talking.
Can I play without joining a club?
Yes. Club nights are open to visitors, and the Chessmates app finds players near Pau for a casual game. Membership becomes worthwhile later, for rated play and the team competitions.
Where do I find chess tournaments near Pau?
All tournaments in France are listed at chessmates.live/en/chess-tournaments-france, month by month, each linking to its official announcement.
Chess in the wider area
Nay · Lourdes · Vic en Bigorre · Juillan · Tarbes · Argeles Gazost · All chess clubs in France · Chess tournaments in France
About Chessmates
Chessmates is the app for over-the-board chess: find an opponent nearby, discover clubs, play tournaments. Free for players and clubs.