The Ossau valley, located to the northwest of the Pyrenees, is one of the most beautiful regions of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. To discover its unspoilt landscapes, nothing beats walking. That's why we've selected the 10 most beautiful hikes in the Ossau valley
1. The grand tour of Pic du Midi d'Ossau
- Distance: 21.6 km
- Difference in altitude: 1,494 m
- Duration: 2 to 4 days
- Itinerary
We're off to a great start with one of the most beautiful hikes to be done in the Ossau valley, but one that's also particularly challenging due to its considerable distance and altitude difference. The Grand Tour du Pic du Midi d'Ossau hikes all the way around the iconic summit on a trail that requires at least two days' walking, but can be completed in two, three or even four days, provided you bivouac. Sleeping in a tent is permitted in the Pyrenees National Park, provided you only stay between 7 pm and 9 am.
2. Touring the Ayous lakes
- Distance: 15, 6 km
- Difference in altitude: 809 m
- Duration : 5 h 30
- Itinerary
This is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Ossau valley, not least because it passes by the Ayous lakes. Five of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region are on your doorstep: Lac Roumassot, Lac Gentau, Lac Bersau, Lac du Miey and Lac Castérau. Beyond these bodies of water, the walk is very scenic, with views of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau. Be warned, however, that all these advantages have to be earned, as this is more of a challenging hike.
3. Pic Sanctus via Lac d'Anglas
- Distance: 10.5 km
- Difference in altitude: 951 m
- Time: 6 h 30
- Itinerary
This trail goes deep into the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, to reach the summit of Pic Sanctus, at 2,482 m altitude. It's a very difficult hike, not just because of its altitude difference, but above all because it includes some very technical sections, sometimes requiring climbing, the use of ropes or the negotiation of rockfalls. It is therefore reserved exclusively for the most experienced and well-equipped hikers. It is, however, one of the most beautiful hikes in the Pyrenees, as it passes through beautiful scenery, such as Lac d'Anglas.
4. The stone circles of Bilhères
- Distance: 7.2 km
- Difference in altitude: 328 m
- Duration : 2 h 30
- Itinerary
The Bilhères stone circle trail is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Ossau valley for those looking for a medium-level hike. It's not particularly technically demanding, and the gradient is accessible to all, albeit with some effort. You'll discover the typical Pyrenean village of Bilhères, small mountain streams and beautiful panoramic views, as well as the Lou Couraus cromlechs, megaliths forming a circle above the village.
5. Tour of Lac de Bious-Artigues
- Distance: 3.2 km
- Difference in altitude: 115 m
- Duration: 1 h
- Itinerary
This is an easy hike that can even be done with children. The parking lot at the start of the walk is located on the edge of this beautiful, must-see mountain lake in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, which you can then walk around. Despite the low level of effort required, this is a very rewarding walk, with views of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau. Note, however, that due to its ease of access, this hike can be quite busy in summer.
6. The Bénou plateau
- Distance: 6.4 km
- Difference in altitude: 142 m
- Duration : 1 h 30
- Itinerary
This beautiful Ossau valley hike crosses the lush green pastures of the Bénou plateau, high above the Ossau valley. The plateau is criss-crossed by numerous footpaths, the most pleasant of which you can follow, past villages, springs, forests and cows. The route stretches around the village of Bilhères, which is certainly one of the most beautiful villages in the South of France, and the starting point for many other beautiful hikes. This is an easy hike, as it's short and doesn't involve much of an ascent.
7. The GRP ® tour of the Ossau valley
- Distance: 110 km
- Difference in altitude: 7,544 m
- Duration : 6 to 8 days
- Itinerary
The GRP ® Tour de la Vallée d'Ossau is a French long-distance hiking trail, requiring several days' walking. It is therefore reserved for experienced hikers, not only because of the stamina it requires, but also because of its steep gradients. You can sleep on the trail in a bivouac, authorized between 7 and 9 p.m., or in a refuge, where you can also eat.
8. Lake Castet
- Distance: 2.3 km
- Difference in altitude: 124 m
- Duration: 50 min
- Itinerary
This is a pleasant, easy walk, accessible even to beginners. It follows the bed of a beautiful mountain river. Along the way, it offers beautiful pastures ideal for a picnic. It's one of the most beautiful walks in the Ossau valley in summer, as the river refreshes the air and the path is mostly shaded.
9. Lac d'Aule
- Distance: 6.9 km
- Elevation gain: 737 m
- Time: 4 h
- Itinerary
The ascent to Lac d'Aule is a strenuous one, with a steep gradient of over 700 m in a distance of just 3.5 km. The second half is downhill on the same route. You'll set off from Lac de Bious-Artigues and follow a path to Lac d'Aule, which is unmarked but almost straight ahead. Part of the route is in woodland, making it pleasant in warm weather. The trail is ideal for a picnic, but there are no litter garbage cans or other facilities along the way, so it's advisable to bring a bag to collect your garbage and limit your ecological footprint.
10. Lake Er
- Distance: 5.8 km
- Difference in altitude: 833 m
- Walking time: 4 h 30
- Itinerary
One of the most beautiful hikes in the Ossau valley, this walk combines everything that makes the Pyrenees one of the best hiking destinations: a beautiful mountain lake, panoramic views, lush green trails and good signposting. Be warned, however, that it's a steep climb and a difficult hike.
