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!

In the Aspe Valley, many people come to walk and admire the Chemin de la Mâture. Some of them continue on the GR®10, others make a loop by returning via the Col d'Arras. But who ventures further?That's what we offer you with this simple and very pretty route.

A circular loop offering an original viewpoint over the centre of the Aspe Valley and the Bedous Valley, with a variant circular on a marked path. The Pic de Narbissat is a key geological observation point, located where the Iberian tectonic plate slides under the Eurasian plate. It is also a good vantage point for viewing the surrounding mountains.

There is a fairly steep climb from Cette to the summer pastures above the village. The effort is well worth it, as the location and the view of the flocks of sheep on the grassy slopes are magnificent.To avoid the effect of going back the same way, we suggest two alternative routes to make the return journey more enjoyable.

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?

An easy hike that can be done at any time of day with the family

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!

A circular trail to discover the villages and hamlets of the Bedous valley, a unique place due to its geological origins and culture. Few climbs, lots of trails. The suggested route is marked in yellow as "Tour du vallon" and described in several guidebooks. We suggest it here to encourage you to hike in this charming area. The train (TER) serves Bedous.

Discover the enormous plateau overlooking Bedous and its region on this circular walk. It is not only a mountain but also an important grazing area for livestock and an exceptional viewpoint over the entire mountain range. The diversity of the natural environments found here is remarkable.

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 it's a must-see passage through the Ayous Refuge in a setting that is, how can I put it? Sublime... ⚠️ 23/09/2025: The Magnabaigt trail (section of the Tour du Midi d'Ossau) will be closed from 1 September 2025 until further notice from (13) to (S/E) for forestry work. Hike not possible at this time.

A classic sporting challenge in the Ossau Valley. The Pic du Midi, affectionately known 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. Reserved for experienced hikers. ⚠️ 23/09/2025: The Magnabaigt trail (section of the Tour du Midi d'Ossau) will be closed from 1 September 2025 until further notice from (8) to (S/E) for forestry work. Hike not possible at this time.

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.