Massif du Balaïtous walks

The Batcrabère lakes are nestled in a cirque at the foot of a rampart formed by the Balaïtous, which rises to 3,144 metres, the Pic Palas (2,974 metres) and the Pic d'Artouste (2,816 metres). You are entering a national park: please respect the regulations https://www.pyrenees-parcnational.fr/fr/... https://www.parcsnationaux.fr/fr/des-dec...

Pretty lakes at the bottom of a little-visited cirque (altitude 2,192 m) in the pretty valley of the Ruisseau de Labas.Marmots, chamois and vultures are often seen in the Bouleste valley.Please note: in spring, when the snow melts, it is sometimes impossible to cross the Ruisseau de Labas at the WPT (3).

This is a fairly challenging hike in terms of elevation gain, but offers varied landscapes. This little-visited lake is a haven of peace and ideal for a picnic with family or friends.

Hanging above the Arrens-Marsous Valley are several lakes, the magnificent dam and the Migouélou refuge, surrounded by peaks ranging from 2,500 to 2,700 metres.But this classic route is not enough to tempt you! GPX track essential.After passing by old mining installations, the railway line, a metal footbridge and Lac de Lassiédouat, the route offers a return via the Vallon de Massey, home to two other adorable little lakes, the Touest.

The climb to the Larribet refuge is a pleasant hike. The first part of the route is marked by pastoralism, as evidenced by the numerous rock shelters (toues). From the refuge, there is a magnificent view of the Balaïtous and Palas mountains. In 45 minutes, it is possible to continue along the path to the Batcrabère lakes.

This round trip hike requires a fairly good level of fitness. Long distance and steep gradient. Returning via Lake Artouste greatly reduces the difficulty. This hike is magnificent. Throughout the climb, you will have the high peaks in your sights. The trails are varied: you will cross forests, summer pastures with herds of cattle, streams and, early in the morning, you may even see some izards (a type of wild goat).

A tourist and walking route to the wonderful blue lakes of Artouste and Arrémoulit, then to a border pass offering a beautiful panoramic view of the upper Arriel Lake, the Palas and the Balaïtous.

This hike takes us on a very airy route along the facilities created in 1954 by the SNCF in the middle of the mountains to collect part of the water from the underground river in the massif and part of the water from the Artouste power station, and to channel it through a penstock to the Miégebat power station on the Gave d'Ossau. After the Grottes des Eaux-Chaudes caves, the route follows the Artouste-Miégebat underground water supply canal with its many windows.

A short hike to the summits of two very close peaks. Superb views and a 360° panorama, particularly towards theCirque d’Anéou, the Pic du Midi d’Ossau and the Lurien Massif. You’re likely to spot marmots and chamois along the way.Please note that whilst these peaks are in France, the majority of the route takes place in Spain and along the border ridge. The GPX track may prove useful.

A remote and little-known valley next to the Migouelou dam. This hike is classified as difficult due to the elevation gain and because you need to be able to navigate from point (3) to point (7). You should only pass through points (2) and (1) in good weather. Do not try to cut across the switchbacks as this accelerates erosion and increases fatigue.

Magnificent views of the French (Pic de Peyrelue, Soques, Balaïtous) and Spanish (Foratata, Sabocos, Pala de IP...) peaks of the Pyrenees on this moderately difficult loop trail, which goes around the El Forato massif, a group of several peaks very close to each other. Difficult if, like me, you choose to climb the peak from the landmark. Walking sticks are highly recommended for the descent. Lots of marmots along the route.

This winter hike through majestic scenery takes you to the lovely Lac d’Arrious, which may be frozen over in winter, and offers views across the valley to the string of lakes at Artouste and Arrémoulit. A hiking app or GPS is strongly recommended.

This loop in the Ossau Valley offers a wide variety of peaks, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, aerial passages and remarkable 360° views. It is a challenging hike due to its significant elevation gain and passages where you will need to use your hands, but it is sure to leave a lasting impression.You will be following in the footsteps of Henry Russel, who made the ascent in July 1874 and gave a faithful account of it in the Bulletin de la Société Ramond, under the title "Explorations pyrénéennes" in October 1874.Writing a description of it yourself requires a certain amount of humility, as his style, always generous, often lyrical and sometimes emphatic, commands respect! All this with the limited technical means of the time!

A circular hike linking the Val d'Azun to Lake Artouste, skirting the Pic de Batbielh. Mountain atmosphere with Lake Migouélou, the scree slopes of the Col de la Lie and the Larribet refuge, but also more touristy near the little train of Artouste. A demanding route, which can be completed in a day and a half or two days, with magnificent landscapes.

This loop in the Ossau Valley offers a wide variety of peaks, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, aerial passages and remarkable 360° views. It is a challenging hike due to its significant elevation gain and passages where you need to use your hands, but it is not one you will forget. It adds difficulty and also enjoyment to the traditional loop by passing through the famous Passage d'Orteig, the Pic d'Arrious and the cliffs of the Barre d'Arrious!You will be following in the footsteps of Henry Russel, who climbed the Arriel via the normal route in July 1874 and gave a faithful account of his ascent in the Bulletin de la Société Ramond, under the title "Explorations pyrénéennes" in October 1874.Writing a description yourself forces a certain amount of humility, as his style, always generous, often lyrical and sometimes emphatic, commands respect! All this with the limited technical means of the time!