Nousty walks

Easy country hike around Nousty, starting from the village centre with its beautiful buildings and wash house. On this very rural route, the Houn de Moussu is a local curiosity, a fountain providing water that is very good for your health, according to the elders. Legend has it that Henri IV drank from it when travelling from Pau to Coarraze. There is a viewpoint shortly after the 419-metre altitude on the Chemin Henri IV. The return through the fields, crossing fords, adds extra charm to the outing.

A circular route around the lower part of the village of Soumoulou via Gomer, where you can discover part of Henri IV's trail, the GR® 782, in the hills. The village's central square offers easy parking.

An accessible and varied circular route on the balcony of the Pyrenees. Starting and ending in the centre of Soumoulou, this hike is appealing for its practicality: spacious car park, easy start and a circular route that avoids any complex logistics. The route alternates between quiet roads, country lanes and PR® footpaths, offering a gentle immersion in the contrasting landscapes of the Pyrenees and the Béarn plains.

A hilly route through the woods along the Chemin Henri IV. The second part is mainly on a gravel track. There is little tarmac.

A beautiful route on the hillsides of Rontignon, a few kilometres from Pau. Several beautiful views of the ridges and the Pyrenees.

A lovely walk along roads and tracks, including a visit to the Piétat Sanctuary and a return route via the ridges of the Baliros and Narcastet hills, back to the starting point in Mazères.

A circular loop of almost 25 kilometres taking you along the banks of the Gave, past the whitewater stadium, Franqueville Castle and part of the Henri IV path linking Pau to Lourdes. You will then return via Assat and the left bank of the Gave back to your starting point.

First, discover the site itself, the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Piétat, built in 1661 by the inhabitants of the farming community of Pardies. The region is rich in history! Next, enjoy the splendid view of the Nay valley to the south-east of Pau, and another beautiful panorama of the Pyrenees from the sanctuary's orientation table. Finally, you can have fun discovering the fountains and other springs hidden in the woods and hills of the site....

A walk exploring the gardens, parks and squares of Pau and Bizanos, passing through the Ravin du Hédas, Pau Castle, the Eaux Vives Stadium and the hillside of Franqueville Castle; along the Gave de Pau, the Ousse, Bouries and Ariou Merdé streams; with magnificent views of the Jurançon hillsides and the Pyrenees, stretching from the Château de Pau to the heights of the Château de Franqueville.

About fifteen kilometres north-east of Pau, the walk takes you through cornfields and oak and chestnut woods.

A walk above the Nay plain, with panoramic views of the Pyrenees and the Piedmont!! Bring a picnic and enjoy the fresh air!!!

An easy, flat walk, alternating between forest (the Bois de Pau or Forêt de Bastard) and cultivated plains.Suitable for walking or mountain biking.

A shaded walk on the hillsides of Jurançon to discover beautiful forests and estates.

The route starts at the top of the Ger hill in Ibos and takes you to the Menhir on the Ger plateau. After entering the woods, the route becomes shaded and you will walk up the Géline. You will see a mini waterfall. You may even spot some deer... Moderator's note : the slate bridge has been destroyed: see the notice dated 21/03/2022.

Explore the Béarn countryside and its hamlets, as well as its regional produce, around the Grand Lées valley.

Hike in the Bois du Commandeur in Ibos and Bordères-sur-l'Échez along the Souy river.The route is located between the D817 road from Pau and the D2 road from Bordères to Pintac, mainly using forest paths and trails. However, there are some short sections on roads. ⚠️ Read the comments on this hike.

This walk will take you to the four churches of Montaner, through forests and, from the plateaus, to vast panoramas with the castle tower as your anchor point.

This beautiful, accessible walk is steeped in history; it follows the old Pontacq road used by charcoal burners in days gone by. Once you arrive at the Mousqué plateau, you can enjoy a shaded picnic area at the foot of century-old oak trees. From there, admire the superb view of the Saint-Péen massif and its countryside, then the Nay plain stretching all the way to Pau.

A must-visit spot for the locals of Saint-Pé and their friends, the peaks of Le Mousqué and La Tourette offer a change of scenery and magnificent panoramic views of the surroundings of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre.Ideal at sunset in summer.

In the Hautes-Pyrénées, near Lourdes, Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre reveals some of its charms during this hike: architecture, limestone massif and caves (with views of the Gave de Pau and the surrounding mountains), and even its Devil's Bridge!

A few kilometres from the centre of Saint-Pé, a small pebble beach is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in summer and a peaceful picnic break. The knitting rabbit is hiding in the tall grass on the neighbouring property!

Starting from the Place des Arcades in Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre, enjoy a pleasant, peaceful walk to reach one of the hills sheltering the village, the “Montagnou de la Lit”, to the east. From up there, you can easily reach the entrance to the Grotte de la Résistance and, for the more adventurous, that of the Tute Faiouias.Magnificent views over the Gave de Pau valley and the ridges of the neighbouring peaks of the Saint-Pé massif.Return via the “Montagnou”, another hill above the village.

On the hillsides of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre, this 10 km route with an elevation gain of 180 m takes you through everything that makes the immediate surroundings of this village so beautiful: its small paths, meadows, woods, rivers and houses, in short, its rural heritage.Whether you're a regular walker or runner, a local or a visitor, you're sure to enjoy yourself here!

A short walk in the hills above Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre offering breathtaking views of the village and its exceptional heritage: its 11th-century church, the former seminary and Catholic school, and the remarkable streets and houses dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries.There are also beautiful views of the mountain range to the south, including the Très-Croutz forest and the ridge of the Cirque de Bat dé Haü, stretching from the Toupiettes in the west to the Aülhet in the east.

A pleasant walk through the woodland along the banks of the Gave de Pau, passing through Rieulhès, a typical Pyrenean hamlet. You’ll enjoy several remarkable views of the village of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre.

On the forgotten trails of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre No. 6 The Araü is the mountainous ridge jutting out from the Massif de Saint-Pé down to the Gave de Pau at the foot of the village. Its imposing, entirely wooded silhouette conceals pretty clearings, once meadows, some well-known paths and others forgotten, used only by hunters and hiking enthusiasts beneath the tall trees of the forest. Its summit, towering arrogantly over the village, is the Soum de las Toupiettas (1,357m).

A beautiful, physically demanding day’s hike with several exposed sections along the ridges, taking you to the heights of the Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre massif, first to the east and then north-east, above the Génie Longue torrent. Final stop at the Refuge du Col du Prat d’Aürelh (du Rey) and its summer pastures. Magnificent scenery! Solitude guaranteed!

Just a stone’s throw from the village of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre, this walk takes us along the trail of the massif’s caves, particularly those on a large hilltop, the Mountagnou de la Pale. The caves are dotted along this route as if laid out especially for the walker. We approach the gaping hole of the Gouffre du Hayau, whose unusual size and the draught of air coming in would surely draw you into its dark abyss, were you not careful... This route was significantly altered in May 2024 by the creation of a new ‘karst trail’.

On the forgotten trails of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre No. 3 A challenging and demanding circular route above Serre Pourcou, across the mountainous plateaus and summer pastures of the Pyrenean foothills, and through the vast and impenetrable forest of Très Croutz, or the state-owned forest of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre. The diversity of the landscapes encountered never fails to impress the hiker...

On the forgotten paths of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre No. 4 A beautiful view from the Pic de Miquéu (1,452 m) over the Saint-Pé Massif and the summer pastures, stretching as far as the peaks of the border range. The route takes in several ancient paths not marked on maps, which adds to its appeal. On the way back, you’ll discover the remarkable site of Calihourc, with its sharp limestone pavement shaped like confessionals, celebrated and photographed by Abbé Abadie in his book *Le Sanglier du Picharrot*.

The Très Crouts Forest holds many curiosities. Here is an unusual one, as it is very rare in this area: a very active resurgent cave. At Aygo Blanco, the torrent gushes from the mountain at 650m and plunges 120m down through a series of small waterfalls, where the river spreads out its white angel’s hair… An enchanting walk to discover this hidden gem! Most of the route follows a path in reasonable condition, although it is old and unmarked. The final 100 metres are quite rugged.

The Picharrots waterfall is a classic spot for lovers of the Saint-Pé Massif who aren’t afraid to tackle the challenges of navigating the Integral Biological Reserve, which is deliberately left completely untouched by human intervention. This route offers an alternative, allowing you to take the Sentier des Gardes on the way there – a trail somewhat forgotten within the massif, but a truly epic one. The final section of the route, between the Bédeille ravine and the waterfall, is more challenging and at times more exposed. Return via the Génie Longue.

Discover a section of the Pyrenean foothills that has remained largely unspoilt: no forest tracks penetrate these vast wooded expanses. Explore unspoilt wilderness along an old path leading up to the mountain pastures and a former charcoal burners’ trail. Discover the vast beech forests of Tres Crouts and the Aoulhet mountain pastures, undoubtedly the most picturesque and wildest spots in the Pibeste-Aoulhet Regional Nature Reserve.

The Cabane de l'Aoulhet is a popular destination for the inhabitants of Saint-Pé, located above the village in the heart of the Très-Croutz forest. Although it is a stop on many routes in the massif, it can also be a popular destination in itself, on the border between the sunny summer pastures and the mossy forest, with a remarkable view of the Montné cliffs, the steep-sided Génie Longue valley, the Picharrots cliffs and the other summer pastures of Prat du Rey.

A lovely mid-mountain hike through the lush forest of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre (or Tres-Croutz or Crouts = Three Crosses in Bigourdan). The first quarter of the hike is a bit challenging, as it is steep. You then pass through the Aülhet and Artigue mountain pastures, before following the ridge westwards to the summit of Soum de la Génie Braque. Well known to locals, this route offers a guaranteed change of scenery!

An exceptional and magnificent circular route on the heights of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre, in the Tres-Croutz forest, then along the ridge of the Soums de Maletaule. This route circles the Génie Braque torrent, which supplies water to the village below. On the mountain pastures, the landscapes are magical in both summer and winter, on the northern side (St-Pé) and the southern side (the main Pyrenees range).

A lovely, challenging and demanding route through the Très-Croutz forest, passing along the bed of the La Génie Braque torrent.The circular route returns via the Aülhet ridge (and its hut, open all year round) after passing through the mountain pastures of the Bat de Haü cirque, clearly visible from the Gave de Pau valley and Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre.

Visiting the gaping maw of the impressive Gouffre de Paybou, lost deep within the steep forest, is just one of the reasons to undertake this splendid hike in the heart of the Très-Croutz Forest, in the Saint-Pé Massif.Here, we follow in the footsteps of Abbé Bernard Abadie, who brought fame not only to this chasm – which he ‘invented’ – but also to the remarkable and eerie site of Calihourc, where he posed for posterity, pipe in hand, beret firmly perched on his head and a mischievous look in his eyes… Warning!This walk takes place in the heart of the wilderness in a rather challenging environment: steep slopes, rocky outcrops, cliffs, thorny undergrowth, and at times a complete lack of signposting, or even a lack of a proper path… This is why it is reserved for experienced, fit walkers with a good sense of direction. A GPS device may also prove very useful.

An excellent way to climb the Merdanson whilst remaining almost entirely under tree cover, which is very pleasant in summer. No technical difficulties during the summer months. There is also the option of climbing the Pic de Pas de Broc. => Map and GPX track are very useful.

A beautiful route linking Lourdes to Pau along an ancient Roman road steeped in history. The Henri IV trail stretches across the Hautes-Pyrénées and Pyrénées-Atlantiques departments, along the foothills of the Pyrenees.

Le Pladi is a mountain pass featuring a small, peaceful clearing. This route, along the Picoulets ridge, offers panoramic views over the Sauguet pastures and the Tres Crouts forest. You can extend the walk by heading to Prat dou Rey in the Batsurguère valley, or head back down the same way.

This short family walk takes you to a charming little cave that’s very easy to reach. Over the millennia, it has been home to all sorts of creatures, as well as humans. All have left traces, few of which are visible to the naked eye, apart from the bear droppings and the markings from palaeontological excavations.What remains is the cave’s impressive size – surprising and rare in the region – and its location in the ever-mysterious Très-Croutz Forest.

An exceptional, challenging and demanding route through the Très-Croutz forest, first on the Gave de Pau side, with a brief detour to the Val d'Azun side at the Col d'Andorre, then on the plateau at 1,400 m, between the Col d'Espadres and the Saint-Pé ridge (Maletaule or Soums).Summer pastures with centuries of pastoral activity, at the crossroads of important local historical sites, including the famous Très Croutz (the Three Crosses of the Bigourdan bishoprics).

This walk is only suitable for walkers who are comfortable with steep and long climbs. This rarely used route offers a peaceful walk in absolute silence in the shade of the Monbula woods. You must first leave a car at the finish point on the D126, on the left-hand side of the road, and then walk to the Aoules car park. The walk can be done in either direction, but the descent towards Ferrières will be easier.

On the way there, exceptional views of the Ossau Valley and the Pyrenees mountain range. On the way back, you will pass through the small village of Bescat. The walk is then more shaded.

A variation on the Croix de Buzy circular path, as a return walk. It is an easy walk with a beautiful view of the Pyrenees. It starts on a gravel road and then follows a dirt track. Little shade. A stream at the end of the route with a poorly defined path.

On the forgotten trails of Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre No. 5A long journey from the Ouzom Valley, through Les Aoules, to the Génies Valley, in the unfathomable Saint-Pé massif.In all seasons, the landscapes and forests are impressive and majestic.Its main attraction lies in the beauty of the two valleys crossed from end to end: the Yerse and the Aguée, sites of ancestral pastoralism where shepherds and their flocks lived from June to October. There are still many traces of this to be found.

Circular route through the countryside and woods with beautiful views of the Pyrenees and a visit to the Sanctuary of Sainte-Quitterie. This saint, renowned in the south-west, has given her name to many springs and fountains reputed to be miraculous. This circular route mainly follows route no. 9 in the old booklet "32 walks and hikes in Miey de Béarn". Signs and markings (yellow lines) are in place for a good half of the route, but after that it becomes more uncertain.

Circular route in the foothills of the Béarn Pyrenees. Beautiful views over the plains of Bruges Nay and, further afield, towards Pau. If Ossau is not visible, Durban, Montdragon and Moulle de Jaut beckon, as if inviting us to climb them soon. This hike can be completed as a round trip in 5½ to 6½ hours, including stops.

Short hike on the outskirts of Lourdes, in the Batsurguère valley. Above the charming village of Omex, there are isolated pastures in a natural basin, the source of the Moules stream. The pass is topped by the Soum of the same name and the Mail des Portes, the start of the beautiful Pernes ridge, towards the Soum du Montné, gateway to the Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre massif and the Très-Crouts forest.

A half-day hike through meadows and fields, from Bénac to Hibarette, then through the wooded hillsides from Bénac to Layrisse.The two circular loops link up easily, taking 3½ hours for hikers and 4 hours for families. This route is well suited to Nordic walking and can be completed in 2½ to 3 hours.The second section is well suited for some short interval training, with three hills of 1 km each.

Tour of the Cité Saint-Pierre via the Béout ridge, passing by the summit cross and the old cable car station with views of Lourdes, the Gave de Pau and the start of the Vallée des Gaves.This hike in a wild area, with little or no signposting and trails that are difficult to see in summer and overgrown with ferns (especially on the descent), makes it accessible only to "adventurers" over the age of 10 who are not afraid of discovering this little summit!

Short hike in the hills above Lourdes. The route is very quiet but well worth a look. It follows the northern ridge, which is the longest and has the greatest elevation gain. From the main summit at 791m, where a cross has been erected, there is a 360° view of the Lourdes region. From the second summit at 719m, there is a viewpoint with the old Béout cable car installation. A little further on is the entrance to the cave known as the "Gouffre de Lourdes", which is 82m deep.

This is a family hike in the Ossau Valley, south of the city of Pau, between the villages of Bescat and Sévignacq-Meyracq. Mainly through the woods, it leads to the Tos de la Courade (tos = watering hole) and then joins theGR®78via a well-maintained path, before returning to the starting point. It overlooks the Ossau Valley to the south and, in the second part of the walk, the plain of Pau.

This hike is not technically difficult but goes beyond the scope of a "Sunday stroll". Its appeal lies in reaching the pastoral summer pastures above the magnificent Batsurguère valley, at the gateway to Lourdes, and taking a break in a perfectly maintained refuge hut. To the west, you can see the Aguée valley, towards the Col d'Espadres. The place is quiet and superb. With a bit of luck, you will be in the company of horses roaming free on the grassy slopes of the pass.

An easy, rural circular from Sainte-Colome in the Ossau Valley, alternating between beautiful woodland paths and farm tracks, offering a wonderful introduction to the Béarn foothills and the pretty village of Sainte Colome. Marked with PR®, then VTT and then GR®78.

A classic family walk. A stunning view from the summit, from where, in good weather, you can see the Vignemale, the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, the Ardiden, etc. There are also lovely views towards Lourdes, Tarbes and Pau all along the ascent. The first section is through a well-shaded forest, whilst the second is more exposed. Bring a cap and water in summer. It is a shame, however, that the summit has been left to fall into disrepair, as the promontory is no longer accessible, nor is its orientation table.

An off-the-beaten-track hike that takes you up two small peaks near Lourdes.A good sense of direction is required for the climb to the Pic du Jer. Do not attempt this hike in wet weather. ⚠️ User comment dated 8 March 2026 => There appears to be a serious access issue at the start due to the poor condition of the track. See alternative route in the practical information section.

A somewhat long walk, but not difficult, with good yellow PR® Route de la Vallée d'Arudy signposting, which occasionally overlaps with a GR®. Beautiful views of the Ger massif and perhaps towards Ossau. Several interesting churches along the way.

Is it hot or grey? Here is a half-day forest trail that is perfect for children. However, avoid periods when it is too wet due to some slippery descents. At the top of the walk, you can enjoy a view of Arudy, and birds of prey are often visible. Above all, don't forget a torch to venture a little way into the cave. Opposite, the other cave, which is closed, contained prehistoric remains (on display at the Arudy museum).

A beautiful, easy circular path near the small village of Gez-ez-Angles, located a few kilometres from Lourdes. You will walk along an open ridge to the small summit of Aubuchous, where you can enjoy a wide panorama of the foothills and the Pyrenees mountain range, before returning to the village via a more wooded path.