From Sarrance to Bedous via the Way of St James

The route is suggested in a north-south direction, from Sarrance to Bedous, which is more scenic than the reverse.

(S) Leaving Sarrance station, head down the small road leading towards the river to the bridge over it, but do not cross it.

(1) Just before the bridge, a small road branches off to the left, running alongside the Gave d’Aspe which flows far below. Follow it; after a few houses, it becomes a very well-marked path, which you simply need to follow carefully.

This path climbs slightly from time to time and then descends again, so as to pass over areas of steep slopes. Thanks to low stone walls and, in one place, a handrail, walkers feel safe here.

(2) After about an hour’s walk, you reach the N134 road. You will then need to walk along it (on the right-hand side) very carefully. Given the condition of the verges, it is recommended to walk on the right-hand side of the main road. This tricky stretch is 200 m long.

(3) At the next junction, you can cross the N134 with great care (heavy and fast-moving traffic) to take the road towards Lourdios-Ichère, which passes under the railway line and climbs. This time, stay on the left-hand side.

(4) At the hairpin bend in the road, a tarmac path branches off to the left (or rather straight ahead); take this path (signposted). The route heads due south. From here, the path is fairly wide and runs through woodland.

After about an hour’s walk, the track becomes a narrow tarmac road, winding through the meadows as the landscape opens up: little by little, you’ll discover the Vallon de Bedous and the peaks overlooking it.

(5) At every fork in the path or small road, turn left. You are approaching the village of Osse-en-Aspe (but you will not enter it).

(6) Just past a farm, you’ll reach the road linking Bedous to Osse; follow it to the left.

(7) At the next crossroads, head towards Bedous (to the right). You’ll cross over the river, then cross the level crossing (unless, of course, the signal is flashing or the barriers are down).

(8) A metre after the level crossing, a path opens up to the right (you’ll need to go through a metal barrier), which leads directly to your destination.

(E) This brings you to Bedous station.

• To return to the starting point (or head back to Oloron), remember to check the TER timetables. It is even recommended to take the TER from Bedous to Sarrance before starting the hike, so you won’t have to worry about missing the train!
• If you’re coming from Oloron by TER, buy a one-way ticket to Sarrance and a return from Bedous (with suitable timings). TER timetables can be found here.
• There are no reliable water sources along the route.
• Sarrance has a restaurant-brasserie and a good butcher’s shop.
• In Bedous, there are all the usual shops, restaurants, etc.
• The river may look swimmable in several places, particularly from Sarrance: be careful, however, of the current, which can be strong (and changeable), and the water temperature!

Sarrance Church

Sarrance Ecomuseum