Etsaut walks

The work carried out by the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department and the Haut-Béarn community of municipalities to facilitate access to the Fort du Portalet, as well as the route through the upper Aspe valley for hikers and pilgrims (GR®65), has been completed and now allows visitors to discover this exceptional site in the best conditions of visibility and safety. Let's make the most of it!

One of the best-known paths in the Pyrenees, carved into the steep rock above the Gorges d'Enfer. The Chemin de la Mâture still echoes with the blows of the pickaxes of the convicts who dug it. An unforgettable page of history!

Climb up, crossing the valley, and arrive at the pasture plateaus to fully enjoy the mountains and the landscape. Hike done in early July, wild irises are present and form magnificent blue fields. You may encounter chamois or marmots and, of course, herds of horses, sheep and cows.

A pleasant hike through the undergrowth to discover a small valley and then the Montagne de Bannasse. Arrival at the mountain pastures with a few waterfalls on the high plains and a few huts where you can buy cheese. Discover the Lac d'Arlet then climb to the pass to finish at the Pic d'Aillary with a 360° view.

A magnificent hike from Lescun, yet relatively unknown. There are magnificent views all along the way. Herds of chamois are frequently seen between the Col de Pau and the Col de Burg.Although this hike is challenging due to the elevation gain, it is not overly difficult. You can stop at the Cabane de Bonaris or the Col de Pau if you start to feel tired. If you are very fit, you can extend the hike by climbing the surrounding peaks or even reaching the Refuge d'Arlet.

A short, well-shaded loop to explore the village of Lees and its surroundings. No difficulty except for carefully following the route at the numerous junctions and crossroads. Don't forget to look up, as the view over the Bedous valley is vast and picturesque! The starting point is easily accessible: the bus stop (on the N134) is very close by.

A fairly short loop above Lescun, ideal for warming up, for children or people who are a little tired. A short climb and a gentle descent: what more could you ask for?

This hike allows you to discover Lake Lhurs and its huts, nestled in a mineral cirque with the jagged Ansabère area in the background.

From Lescun, discover the Aiguilles d'Ansabère and the superb landscape of the Aspe Valley!

This is a short hike that takes you off the beaten track to a lake that is less frequented but just as beautiful as the more famous Ayous Lakes, perhaps because this walk can only really be done as a round trip. We went there in autumn for the peace and quiet, the beauty of the site and, quite simply, for the colours, the colours!

The not-to-be-missed Lacs d'Ayous, deep in the Ossau valley, with a magnificent view of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau.

Why Grand Tour? Because you have to pass by the Ayous Refuge in a setting that is, how can I put it? Sublime...

A classic sporting challenge in the Ossau Valley. The Pic du Midi, known locally as Jean-Pierre, can be circumnavigated in an anti-clockwise direction. Although well marked and signposted, the route suffers from a total lack of signposting in the National Park. For experienced walkers only.

Ascent to Lac de Montagnon via the Cure det Cam hut. ⚠️ 02/07/2025: Parking in the car park is compulsory and subject to a fine:reservations are compulsory and free from 2 April to 30 November. See practical information. ⚠️ 22/05/2025: Departure car park changed following a municipal by-law.

This is the first day of a cross-border hike that takes you to the Pic du Midi d'Ossau, starting from an unusual point, the Col du Somport, rather than the Col du Pourtalet.Overnight stay at the Refuge de Pombie is essential, so remember to book in advance.