Calihourc walks

On the forgotten paths of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre No. 4 A beautiful view from the Pic de Miquéu (1,452 m) over the Saint-Pé Massif and the summer pastures, stretching as far as the peaks of the border range. The route takes in several ancient paths not marked on maps, which adds to its appeal. On the way back, you’ll discover the remarkable site of Calihourc, with its sharp limestone pavement shaped like confessionals, celebrated and photographed by Abbé Abadie in his book *Le Sanglier du Picharrot*.

Visiting the gaping maw of the impressive Gouffre de Paybou, lost deep within the steep forest, is just one of the reasons to undertake this splendid hike in the heart of the Très-Croutz Forest, in the Saint-Pé Massif.Here, we follow in the footsteps of Abbé Bernard Abadie, who brought fame not only to this chasm – which he ‘invented’ – but also to the remarkable and eerie site of Calihourc, where he posed for posterity, pipe in hand, beret firmly perched on his head and a mischievous look in his eyes… Warning!This walk takes place in the heart of the wilderness in a rather challenging environment: steep slopes, rocky outcrops, cliffs, thorny undergrowth, and at times a complete lack of signposting, or even a lack of a proper path… This is why it is reserved for experienced, fit walkers with a good sense of direction. A GPS device may also prove very useful.