The Valley of Ossau : that’is there to discover ?

If you are looking for a place to reconnect with nature, while discovering a rich heritage and history, you might want to check out the Ossau Valley. In the villages that make up the valley, you will discover a unique culture, know-how and personalities that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Whether you are a sportsman or not, whether you like strong sensations or enriching encounters, you will find your happiness during your excursion in the valley. Along the landscapes out of time, villages, lakes and farms built along the reliefs, leave with us to discover the Valley of Ossau.

Where is the Vallée d’Ossau ?

If you are planning to visit the Pyrenees in the near future, you should not miss out on the visit of the Ossau Valley. It is located in the old principality of Béarn, in the region of Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Nestled in the mountainside, between the towns of Arudy, Bielle, Aste-Béon and Laruns.

You can go there directly by car via the departmental road 934 or thanks to the bus service proposed in the region. The entrance of the valley is located 17 km from Pau, the main city of the region. It is from here that you will arrive by train from the four corners of the territory.

The nearest major cities in France are Toulouse and Bordeaux at 215 and 220 km each.

Activities to do in the valley

On site, there is no lack of activities. You will obviously go to the discovery of the villages You will be able to see the typical houses of the area and take full advantage of the incredible landscapes that the region offers.

Canyoning in the Ossau Valley is a very popular activity. Along the natural slides anchored in the rock, you will discover the little corners of the valley’natural water features that adorn the place. A physical and playful activity that will delight the whole family.

Whether you are a confirmed sportsman or a beginner, there are circuits and activities of canyoning made for you.

If you are looking for a more quiet activity, you can discover the magnificent paths which connect the villages between them and offer incredible views of the different reliefs of the area. The Ossau Valley is composed of about thirty marked and secured hikes, classified in six heritage circuits. You will discover a part of the way to Santiago de Compostela, a high place of pilgrimage in the world.

The trails are classified by level, and some are only accessible on foot or by air. You can also discover a part of the GR10 hike, that crosses the Pyrenees from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic.

You can also discover the region on donkey or horseback, during a daily excursion in the paths of the region, accompanied by an instructor. For a few hours, you will cross the small lakes and discover the Pic du Midi d’Ossau on horseback in an extraordinary setting. You will discover the richness of the fauna and flora of the region, with notably the emblematic shepherds and their sheep.

An unforgettable moment to live at least once in your life.

L’the unmissable little train of’Artouste

S’There is one activity that you absolutely must do when you come to the region, it is the little train of Artouste. On a railroad built in the furrow of the mountains, you will discover the wonders of the valley from this colorful and original train. The locomotive runs along the cliffs and climbs to an altitude of over 2,000 m, making it the highest train in Europe.

Sitting comfortably, you will discover the region with a new eye and you will discover the lake of Artouste, very probably the most beautiful place of the region. In the hollow of the mountains stands this fresh water lake that you will discover during your stay excursion by train. This hike is considered one of the most beautiful and attractive in the region by many travel guides and tourist agencies.

Count on average 25 euros for an adult and 15 euros for a child. These prices may change depending on the season and your personal and family situation.