Pic d’Ourtasse circular walk

From Oloron-Sainte-Marie, head towards Spain via Jaca and the Col du Somport, then towards Lescun; park wherever you can – there are several car parks.

(S/E) Head towards the kiosk, pass a cross and reach a Y-junction.

(1) Turn left and head up to the kiosk, then continue on to reach the Belvédère de l’Ourtasse.

(2) Follow the ridge for the most part, with some steep sections (where you’ll need to use your hands), generally staying on the Anitch side. After the first small hill, descend to the right, then traverse along a well-marked horizontal ledge and descend to the pass. Go round the small rocky outcrop to the right: climb a 2-metre wall and swing over onto the Anitch side. Via a descending traverse, rejoin the ridge and continue to a grassy descent. Cross the now easy slopes on the Lescun side, to the edge of the plateau. Carry on to reach the summit of the Pic d’Ourtasse.

(3) Descend back to the plateau and follow the wide path through the ferns to Maison Coumerilh.

(4) Here you’ll find the GR®10; turn left onto it and continue on to the hamlet of Espiaubot.

(5) Leave the road, keep to the right on the GR® and reach a crossroads with several directions.

(6) Continue along the GR®, following the red and white markings, and you’ll soon reach your chosen car park in Lescun (S/E).

(S/E) Lescun