The Hautes-Pyrénées offer almost endless walking possibilities, from scenic footpaths suitable for families, to day hikes on waymarked trails and trekking on the long distance Grand Randonnées (GRs) and Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne (HRP). Outlined below are some of the highlights, with driving times to sites in bold given at the foot of the page. Pyrenean VillagesIn the foothills walkers will find tiny perched hamlets, stone shepherd's huts and animals grazing steep pastures. There are enchanting networks of paths to explore in the nearby Castelloubon valley, above the spa towns of Bagneres-de-Bigorre and Cauterets, and in the forests around the Lac de Lourdes. Lakes and RiversThe Pyrenees are characterised by waterfalls, gaves (rivers) and lakes. Popular day trips include touring the Lac de Payolle, the steep climb to Lac Bleu above the Lesponne valley, the beautiful descent to Lac d'Isaby from Hautacam, and Lac de Gaube via the Pont d'Espagne waterfall. Trekking PeaksPic du Montaigu (2,339 m) dominates the view south from the house, and is the ideal first peak for the Pyrenean hiker. Nearby is the famous Pic du Midi du Bigorre (2,877 m) - with its prominent summit observatory - which can be accessed relatively easily on the Porters' Trail from the Col du Tourmalet. Those in search of more challenging climbs can choose from many peaks over 3,000 m, such as La Grande Fache (3,005 m) and the mighty Balaïtous (3,114 m).
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PYRENEAN WILDLIFELAMMERGEIERKnown as "the bone-breaker", the Lammergeier drops bones from height to get to the bone marrow. There are good chances to see this rare and spectacular bird in the National Park. GRIFFON VULTUREThis large vulture (below) is a common sight at the local cliffs, where it soars on the thermals in loose flocks. RED / BLACK KITE Red Kites are year round visitors to Cami de Bidale, and entertain guests with close approaches. In summer, Black Kites are also in the valley, and from time to time literally hundreds stream overhead towards the peaks. MOUFLON This emblematic mammal resembles a very large ram. It thrives on the Massif de Pibeste where several hundred have been recorded. MARMOTThe marmot can be seen, and more frequently heard, at high altitude (around 2,000 m). Their inquisitive appearance endears them to visitors. BUTTERFLIESThere is an abundance of butterflies in the Pyrenees, including the orange-tipped (a garden visitor), and the graceful Swallowtail. |
We offer a range of support for hiking and naturalist groups, depending on your requirements. For self-guided walks we provide route advice and laminated maps, as well as picnic lunches and drinks. We will drive you to the departure point, and also facilitate A-to-B walks by picking you up from a different valley.
For groups requiring guiding, we can arrange walks with local accompagnateurs and reserve visits with park wardens.
Site |
Departure Point |
Driving Time from |
---|---|---|
Castelloubon valley |
Juncalas |
15 mins |
Pic du Montaigu |
Germs sur l'Oussouet |
15 mins |
Massif du Pibeste |
Agos Vidalos |
15 mins |
Lac de Lourdes |
Lac de Lourdes |
15 mins |
Bagneres-de-Bigorre |
Town centre |
15 mins |
Cauterets |
Town centre |
35 mins |
Lac d'Isaby |
Hautacam |
35 mins |
Lac de Payolle |
Payolle |
35 mins |
Lac Bleu |
Le Chiroulet |
35 mins |
Lac de Gaube, La Grand Fache & Vignemale |
Pont d'Espagne |
50 mins |
Lac de Puydarrieux |
Puydarrieux |
50 mins |
Pic du Midi du Bigorre |
Col du Tourmalet |
50 mins |
Lac d'Orédon |
Superbaréges |
50 mins |
Balaïtous |
Barrage du Tech |
50 mins |
Cirque de Troumouse |
Héas |
1 hour |
Cirque de Gavarnie, Bréche de Rolande & Vignemale |
Gavarnie |
1 hour |
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