Betpouey walks

A beautiful, little-known hike offering superb 360° views from Léviste to Pibeste via Luz, Bergons, Gavarnie and Viscos. The climb is steep but not difficult, and your thighs will feel the burn on the descent. There is a loop variant starting lower down (Saligos) and returning via Coueylas.

The Néouvielle Massif is impressive for the diversity of its landscapes, peaks, lakes, "eternal ice" and abundant wildlife. The Turon de Néouvielle is named after this prestigious massif and is located in one of the easternmost areas of the "Core Zone of the Pyrenees National Park". This area of the PNP extends over territories with altitudes never falling below 1,067 m and peaking at 3,298 m at the Pique Longue du Vignemale. It is home to extremely varied landscapes. On the Turon de Néouvielle trail, there are numerous glacial mountain lakes, granite rocks, sharp ridges and a few grassy areas with diverse wildlife. An exceptional sight! This route takes you to two of the 3000-metre peaks in the area. It can be done in one or two days, with a break at the Refuge de la Glère, in a heavenly location.

For mineral enthusiasts. This walk offers many attractions, including beautiful scenery, several lakes along the route and the option of completing a loop via the Refuge de la Glére, returning to the starting point (for experienced walkers).

First stage of the Three Days in the Néouvielle Reserve and its lakes. From the Tournaboup car park to the Bastan refuge. This is a fairly challenging hike due to its elevation gain and short distance. At (6), you can listen to the stage and remove some of the elevation gain. See Practical Information. At (7), you can shorten the route and remove some of the elevation gain by starting on a south-facing balcony trail.

This three-day hike allows you to see at least 20 lakes. It is divided into three parts and includes two nights in a refuge (or in a tent). The first day is quite difficult. The times for each stage are those I have noted. They include photo breaks, meals, discussions, and time spent with your feet in the water. Please note that there are three hikes (normal walking pace).

This is a very accessible walk. After following a valley where irises bloom in late July, it climbs up to the Lac de Barrage dets Coubous. It then winds its way from lake to lake, across the meadows of a high-altitude cirque.

Please note: access to the Pic du Midi is prohibited until 1 November 2024 by municipal decree The Pic du Midi de Bigorre is a classic in the Pyrenees. Apart from its length, this hike is very accessible. The approach via the Ruisseau d'Oncet is magnificent, where you will encounter marmots and llamas. Once you reach the summit, you'll be blown away by the view of all the legendary peaks, including Aneto, Vignemale, Balaïtous and the Néouvielle massif. Below, you can see Lac d'Oncet, which you passed on the way up.

A beautiful hike that leads to Lake Isaby via the ruins of Saint-Orens Abbey and the Isaby Valley. A pleasant trail, sometimes steep, mostly in the forest before coming out onto the lake and the surrounding peaks (Soum and Pic de Léviste, Soum Arrouy, Soum de Lascours).

A beautiful walk in the Vallon des Granges de Bué, which can be done with children provided they are fit.

Lac Dets Plagnous is a tiny lake above Lac d'Isaby. A little more difficult to access than the latter, it is neglected by hikers. However, it is very pleasant and makes you want to stay on its shores for a while.

The Néouvielle massif is the highest massif in the Pyrenees entirely within France. The Pic du Néouvielle (3,091 m) is its emblem, if not its highest peak, in the heart of a regional nature reserve where every lake is a marvel. This hike offers the ascent via the usual route, through the ancient Néouvielle glaciers, and a less easy but more fun descent via boulders. Starting from Lac d'Aubert, the route is fairly easy, especially in spring and early summer when the snow in the north-east couloir is still present, allowing you to avoid the scree, and is fairly well marked. In the last section, you cross the area of the former Néouvielle glaciers, partially replaced by snowfields, scree and large boulders. Finally, a short, easy climb up a chimney takes you to the summit, where you can enjoy exceptional views of the surrounding area and the entire Pyrenees mountain range!

This is an easy, short hike, ideal for young children. The lake, nestled in lush greenery and surrounded by mountains, is truly magnificent. Calm and peaceful, it makes you want to stay there for a long time.

A small mountain lake with a beautiful blue-green colour. Less frequented than the Lac Bleu, it is a real pleasure to soak up the calm and splendour of the site. The route offers views of the magnificent Pitch d'Ouscouaou waterfall.

A very pretty hike with three lakes to see, including the magnificent Lac Bleu. The Pic de Bizoutére offers views of the Lesponne valley on the right and Hautacam on the left, not to mention the famous Pic du Midi. On the way back, you will come across some splendid waterfalls.

A typical Pyrenean lake in the mid-mountains. 47 hectares, 120 metres deep. Beautiful blue colour.

In the footsteps of Georges Buisan, born in 1924 in Montréjeau (Haute-Garonne) and resident in Tarbes, he spent his childhood in Bigorre. His interest in the mountains led him to spend several years researching shepherds' huts. Georges Buisan has since passed away, but he leaves behind him, with this Courtaou de la Lit, which he restored over a period of thirty years, an original legacy and a powerful message.