Neste de Rioumajou (ruisseau) - Affluent de la Neste d'Aure walks

A superb hike to enjoy in both winter and summer! Far from being monotonous, this hike, with its varied scenery, is easy to follow and offers different views of the beautiful Rioumajou Valley and the surrounding peaks.  The first section, up to the Cabane du Cortail de Batoua, follows a stream before heading into the forest and climbing up to the cirque where the hut is located – perfect for the sweltering summer heat! The second section is very pleasant to walk and, above all, magnificent; the path is quite fun to follow, with a few sections where you need to use your hands, but nothing too complicated. It’s accessible to everyone! You’ll see several waterfalls and wildlife along the way, before returning to the valley by following the stream. 

The first stage starts at the Hospice du Rioumajou. You are at the start of the summer pastures, one of the arrival points of the Ténarèze. This ancient path, first traced in prehistoric times and then developed by the Romans, linked the Adour and Garonne basins, avoiding fords and tolls. A major transhumance route, it allowed herds to move between the plains and the mountains, while serving as a commercial and cultural link between Gascony and Spain, notably via passes such as the Ourdissétou.