Around Issarbe from the Nordic Centre

Park in the car park at the Issarbe Nordic Centre, which is designated for cross-country skiing starts in winter.

(S/E) Head north-west towards the Col de Hournères after crossing the road leading to the car park. Pass the restaurant and refreshment bar at the top and take the path below, which isn’t very clearly marked. The scenery is magnificent, with unobstructed views of the mountains. The path then continues in hairpin bends before moving onto another side of the mountain.

(1) At this point, a signpost provides a summary of the walk. This sign describes the cross-country ski trails. Carry on straight ahead and ignore the hairpin bend that branches off to the left above the sign. You’ll reach the orientation table.

(2) Do not take the balcony path to the left, but head down along the ridge to a wider path, which you should take to the left, heading south-east. Follow this path through the woodland until you reach the road.

(3) Walk alongside it, turning left: watch out for cars, but the road seems to have little traffic. Return to the starting car park (S/E).

Bring a cap in summer as the first section is in direct sunlight.
In winter, make sure the area is clear for walking.

(2) Halfway along the route, there is an orientation board providing information on the Pyrenean mountain landscape.
The walk is divided into two sections: the first section is in open terrain (take care in summer as it is in direct sunlight) and the second section is through woodland.