Emmanuel B

An unmissable hike, visiting five villages that look like something out of a mountain ecology textbook. The men and women have tamed the slopes, working tenaciously to make a year-round living from livestock farming, which now boasts an appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) designation. It is thanks to this activity that we have these charming landscapes of high-altitude gardens, flower-filled meadows meticulously bordered by ash hedges, balcony paths and terraces on retaining walls.

On this route, there are five 11th- and 12th-century churches to see:- The 12th-century Church of Saint-Julien in Sazos.- The churches of Saint John the Baptist and Saint Nicholas in Esquièze-Sère: listed historic monuments from the 11th century. One is in the basilica style, whilst the other houses ancient chapels. Visits in July/August, 4pm–6pm.- The 12th-century Saint-Michel Church in Vizos.- The Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Saligos, dating from the 12th century.

Beyond the Tourmalet summer pastures, on the far side of a high pass, discover a vast, deep-blue lake.Lac Bleu lies at the same altitude as the starting point, in a neighbouring valley. To reach it, you must cross the easy Col d’Aoube, moving from the gentle bustle of the Col du Tourmalet to a wild valley home to the small Lac Vert and the immense Lac Bleu. A pleasant hike in the company of herds, with large Pyrenean birds of prey soaring overhead.

Follow old paths hidden under beech and hazel trees to discover three villages with a rich traditional architectural heritage.

This very pleasant and accessible walk takes you through the beautiful Aygues Cluses Valley. You will walk along the torrent between groves and lawns to the lake of Coueyla Gran. Located at the gateway to the Néouvielle Nature Reserve, come and meet its emblematic host: the mountain pine. See During the hike or nearby. Observe the "coueylas", which are old shelters for shepherds and their flocks.

From the Ayré Forest, the hike begins by climbing up the Glère Valley. A trough-shaped profile, winter avalanche slides, a torrent at the bottom of the valley and groves of pines and rhododendrons; a classic approach to the high mountains. Nothing suggests that at the top of the main ridge, the Refuge de la Glère opens the door to the crystalline empire of Néouvielle, a universe where a constellation of lakes, large and small, sparkle, each more charming than the last.

Following a series of local footpaths, this circular route takes in the little gems and panoramic views of the spa town of Cauterets. A scenic route through the local forests, exploring the thermal baths – both current and historic – the waterfalls on the milky-white streams, the views over the town and the mountain inns.

A stroll through the mountain village of Laruns, situated in the heart of the Ossau Valley in Haut-Béarn, offers a chance to experience the atmosphere of days gone by. It is also an opportunity to discover, through chance encounters, the atmosphere of a modern-day mountain village.

With its small lake fringed by large boulders, the Pombie Refuge is the starting point for all ascents and climbs to the Pic du Midi d’Ossau. There are two possible routes to reach it: via the Cirque d’Anéou or via the Caillou de Soques. This route describes the approach via the Caillou de Soques.

This lovely walk allows you to discover the typical villages of the Ossau Valley from a higher vantage point. The old paths that connected them are still paved in places, and the slate-roofed houses, grouped around the church, feature beautiful engraved marble portals.

The Lac d'Anglas hike is one of the must-do routes starting from Gourette. It offers a varied mountain landscape where waterfalls, cliffs and lakes enhance the magnificent scenery of the high-altitude summer pastures you will be crossing.

This circular route, without any particular difficulty, offers you a connection between Eaux-Bonnes and Laruns, passing through the villages of Assouste and Aas, typical of the Ossau Valley. The walk offers both beautiful panoramic views and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the 19th-century spa era.

A relatively short walk accessible to all, allowing you to discover the Séris waterfall and the typical narrow streets of Laruns.

This lovely route allows you to discover the typical villages of the Ossau Valley whilst gaining altitude. The old paths that once linked them are still paved in places, and the slate-roofed houses, clustered around the church, feature beautiful carved marble doorways. The route also connects Eaux-Bonnes via the villages of Assouste and Aas, which are typical of the Ossau Valley. The walk offers both stunning panoramic views and the chance to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the 19th-century spa era.

In the heart of the Vanoise National Park, discover the Refuge de la Valette, perched at an altitude of 2,585 m. An essential stop on multi-day hikes or simply a little corner of paradise for a well-deserved break at the foot of the Vanoise glaciers. Make the most of your hike to explore the old refuge and the nearby lake. The slope’s exposure encourages updrafts, ideal for birds of prey (golden eagles, bearded vultures, etc.) to soar – a truly spectacular sight!

A beautiful hike in the heights of Cézallier. The route follows a stream, crosses footbridges, beech woods and pastures to discover the Cascade de la Barthe waterfall and Lac Chauvet lake. Note that there is a picnic area at (8).

A walk on the Pointe des Châteaux, a peninsula to the east of the island of Grande-Terre. At the very tip of the headland, you’ll discover large rock formations where powerful waves crash. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Grande-Terre, and even the island of La Désirade on clear days.

A hike that will amaze you with its cultural, heritage and historical richness, as well as its exceptional flora and fauna. Sketching enthusiasts will be delighted with the panels that help them draw like professionals.

A hike in Les Saintes, Terre-de-Haut, to visit Fort Napoléon. Head to Morne Morel, then to Pompierre Bay, then back to the town centre. Views of various bays and the surrounding islands.