Hautes Pyrénées Sport Nature: Adventures at Saint-pe-de-bigorre

This circuit in the countryside around the village of Asson in the Pays de Nay takes you up the hillside in a steady climb so you can enjoy a beautiful clear view of the lowland and the first foothills of the Hautes-Pyrénées. It’s worth making some effort. This beautiful and intensive route, after taking you about two-thirds of the way into the forest, will lead you to a beautiful beech wood and the cabin of l’Isarce.

Confronted by Bigorre, which threatened her lands, the viscountess Margaret of Bearn signed a contract of protection that would ensure equality of rights and possessions with Arnaud Guilhem, the abbot of St Pé de Bigorre. From this political act, a new city between Bearn and Bigorre was born in 1308, a fortified town called Montaut, which would boost the economic and demographic development of the region. The chosen site, shielded from floods, was the Mons Altus, the High Mount, which became Montaut. Its extensive forests and subsoils rich with limestone led to the building of lime kilns, which would comfortably supply the needs of construction at the time and in the future.

A short introductory stage between the sanctuaries of Betharram, on the eastern edge of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, and the bastide town of Bruges, representative of the villages of the Pyrenean foothills, founded in the 14th century with a vocation to welcome pilgrims. To reach it, the route alternates between the heights of the hills bathed in light and the coolness of the discreet rivers at the bottom of the valley.

The Pays de Nay cycle path forms part of the long-distance route that links the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean and then swings to the north of Europe via the EuroVelo 1 route. It’s a pleasant ride from village to village, enabling you to discover the local heritage and history, in particular the Baburet footbridge. Built in 1930 to relaunch iron mining in Baburet, the footbridge was a key component of the railroad that linked the mine with the Coarraze-Nay railway station. From the 16th to the 19th century, Baburet’s iron deposits supplied many forges in the Pays de Nay and the valley of Ossau. The closure of the forges in 1866 led to the shutting of the mine. In 1930, to meet the needs of new factories all over France, the mine reopened and the railroad was built. After the final closure of the mine in 1962, the track was dismantled.

A very beautiful and interesting circuit via side roads. Although with no great technical difficulties, this circuit is aimed at sporty people because of its length and its climb. A key element of Nay’s lowland landscape, the canals have existed since the Middle Ages. They were used for irrigation and to power mills and hammers. Their role was essential in the development of industry in Nay during the 19th century. The water intake of Coarraze in the right bank gives rise to the canal of the Lagoin, which supplies the stream of the same name and the lowland canal. Left bank upstream of the Claracq bridge, the Grau canal flows into the Escourre and creates the Gaou canal. From these canals and streams flow a number of small irrigation channels.

This circular walk between the villages of Lestelle-Bétharram and Montaut in the Pays de Nay showcases various landscapes and exceptional examples of the area’s heritage. Since the Middle Ages, Bétharram has been a strategic crossing point between Bearn and Bigorre, protected by the fortified towns of Montaut and Lestelle. A first bridge made of wood was constructed in the 15th century. On the Piedmont Way towards Santiago de Compostela and after the “miracle” of the “beau rameau” (beautiful branch), a chapel, then a sanctuary and a Calvary were built between the 17th and the 19th centuries. The priests of Bétharram also built a monastery, a seminary and a school. The impressive size of the buildings testifies to the success of these establishments. More recently they have become, respectively, a museum, a retirement home and a secondary school.

This tour of the village of Lestelle-Bétharram in the Pays de Nay offers a pleasant walk for all the family and takes you along the paths of history and of great Christian myths. Starting at an old fortified town built to a plain and straight-sided plan, you go on to discover the incredible architectural and statuary mix of the Sanctuary of Bétharram, a major centre of the Marian pilgrimage pre-dating that of Lourdes. You can enjoy the site’s baroque architecture, which is unique in Bearn.

It is said that this path was the one that Henri IV used to take from Pau to go hunting in the woods of Lourdes. It is on the hillside, long predates the good king and dates back to the protohistoric period. It enabled travellers to avoid the marshlands of the Plaine de Nay and the Gave de Pau. The Road to Santiago, between Lourdes, Pau and Lescar, from the dolmen of the Peyre Duzets, to Caesar’s Fort (le Fort de Cesar) by way of the ruins of Gleise Pause; the etymology and the vestiges of the past tell the story of a path that, way before having the name of a king, was a route between cities. Later on, villages and roads were built in the plain, which, with the change in climate and the work of men, dried out.

This walk around Arthez d’Asson in the Pays de Nay, at the gateway to the mountains, will lead you through an undulating countryside scattered with farms. The village with houses huddled together, with a neighbourhood near the water, born from the activity of the old forge.

If you like adventurous hikes, on a wild mountain with major changes in height and a varying landscape, this itinerary is perfect for you. After an ascent through forests, ferny areas and clearings you will reach the high altitude pastures that lead to the summit of Merdanson, an exceptional panoramic viewpoint. On the mountain, from the hills to the summits, we cross different types of vegetation depending on the elevation and whether you are on the flat or a slope. On the northern slope of the Pyrenees, up to 900m ( 2952.76ft.), we find hills, meadows and leafy forests. From 900 to 1700m ( 2952.76 to 5577.43 ft.), at the mountain level, are the beech and fir forest. Above the forest is the start of the subalpine and alpine levels, which comprise heathlands and summer pastures. Higher, around 2300m ( 7545.93ft.), at the snow level, there are only rocks and snow.

This unique experience plunges you into the depths of the Grottes de Betharram for a 45-minute tour. By foot, by boat and by train, discover all of the curious features present in the underground galleries and chambers! BY FOOT, BY BOAT, AND EVEN BY TRAIN: SPEND 80 MINUTES DISCOVERING THE CURIOUS UNDERGROUND PASSAGES AND CHAMBERS OF THE GROTTES DE BATHARRAM! Your itinerary begins with the upper section of the caves, which is composed of vast galleries and immense chambers adorned with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. You will then descend an 80-metre abyss where, accompanied by your guide, you'll take to the underground river in a small boat. To finish the tour, you'll then board a little train that follows a 700-metre subterranean trail. Take advantage of this activity to embark on a quirky underground adventure!

Near Nay and Lourdes, the Vieux Logis hotel-restaurant is located a few steps from the region's most important tourist site, the Bétharram grottos. This family home has been lovingly converted into a charming hotel complex by their owners, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye. Today, the hotel-restaurant offers a contemporary décor. With its 28 rooms labelled Logis (3 "cocottes" and 3 "fireplaces"), and its 5 huts ("Insolite By Logis"), this establishment is a safe bet as much for the quality of the reception and its rooms, as for its restaurant. The cuisine served showcases the local gastronomy.

5km from Nay, this detached house located in the small village of Igon, has a beautiful view of the Pyrenees. Located in a quiet street, this home features many amenities to allow you to enjoy a pleasant stay. You can also enjoy the garden, garden furniture and the plancha. Nearby is the Gave de Pau, where you can enjoy great fishing or go rafting, canoeing, hydro speeding, etc. For hikers, come explore our marked trails, passable on foot or bike as well as our horseback rides.

In Sévignacq-Meyracq, at the entrance to the Ossau Valley, this 17th century property welcomes you for a comfortable stay. The gîte, which sleeps 14, is housed in a tastefully renovated former cowshed. The 8,300m² grounds feature a swimming pool and an orchard surrounded by pastures with views of the Pyrenees.

In a valley with preserved natural landscapes, the lodging " Le Balcon du Rey d'Ossau " took place. In the peace, in front of the mountains! Evelyne welcomes you in her comfortable gîte on the ground floor of her house. The gite is also accessible for people with reduced mobility. Outside, covered terrace and barbecue for your summer evenings.

Set up in the natural canyon carved out of the Pyrenees by the River Ardour, this via ferrata course is a fun and sporty way for families or groups of friends to make the most out of the stunning landscapes. SET UP IN THE NATURAL CANYON CARVED OUT OF THE PYRENEES BY THE RIVER ARDOUR, THIS VIA FERRATA COURSE IS A FUN AND SPORTY WAY FOR FAMILIES OR GROUPS OF FRIENDS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE STUNNING LANDSCAPES. Zip lines, rope swings, monkey bridges, and all kinds of challenges await you within this exceptional site. Make your way along the rock face, following the cable that's fixed into the stone with the aid of well-placed hand and footholds: thrills guaranteed! The itinerary is adapted for all levels, from 3 to 83 years! An activity leader will be present to take care of the little kids while the bigger ones take on the via ferrata course accompanied by expert mountain guides. The itinerary is fully secure and all equipment adheres to strict safety regulations. You will be provided with everything you need: harness, helmet, ropes and carabiners. At the end of your activity, tea and coffee will be served in a traditional shepherd's hut. All participants, young and old, will be presented with an Ardour climbing certificate, as well as photos and a personalized film of the day's highlights.

In the heart of the resort of Gourette, this apartment welcomes you for a stay in front of the circus of Gourette, in the ascent to the pass of Aubisque. Ideal location for a successful stay in the mountains... You will be able to access the ski area in winter as well as the multiple hikes on the cirque of Gourette and the Col d'Aubisque in summer

Village of 50 individual and adjoining wooden chalets with a capacity of 4-15 people facing the cirque of Gourette. At 700 meters from the ski resort. In winter, a private shuttle through continuous link cottages/ski resort, aBar restaurant, sauna, gym, game room (billiards, table tennis) entertainment in the evenings. During summer outdoor heated swimming pool.

Village of 50 individual and adjoining wooden chalets with a capacity of 2-15 people facing the cirque of Gourette. At 700 meters from the ski resort. In winter, a private shuttle through continuous link cottages/ski resort, access pub with sauna. The summer outdoor pool and children's club (7-17 years). Bar restaurant, sauna, gym, game room (billiards, table tennis) entertainment in the evenings. Home groups full board or half board as well as seminars or weddings. Rates and conditions by contacting us directly.

In Gourette, at the foot of the slopes in winter and very close to the Col d'Aubisque and the many hikes that the site offers. This charming chalet, entirely renovated in a mountain spirit has all the comfort, a beautiful fireplace and a stove, a large fenced wooden terrace, a balcony, a parking space, baby equipment, multiple storage for ski equipment etc. The chalet is located on a very quiet dead end street.

Located in Montaut in Béarn, you can visit Miellerie de Nicolas who will explain you her beekeeper's job and will show you its property. You can so discover thanks to posters and hive of presentation, the cycle of production and life of bees. You will also have the opportunity to visit the miellerie and taste on the spot honeys of locust tree, thyme, châtaigner or flowers.

During summer, the flocks are in the summer pastures. Do not go too close to them as they often guarded by Patous, large Pyrenean sheepdogs

Situated on the heights of Lestelle-Bétharram, firm Marty-Débat, is a farming exploitation on which is raised the purebred cow " Montbéliarde " which graze natural meadows. The Monguilhet family invites you to come to discover their herd, to attend the milking and if you wish, you can fill up with fresh dairy products: natural, sweet, flavored yoghurts and with fruits, cottage cheese, unpasteurized and pasteurized milk .

Lestelle-Bétharram is a very former place of pilgrimage and is still very busy (September 14th and Sunday which follows). The tradition allude to the fact that the Virgin saved a girl of the drowning there by holding her a big twig under the bridge (bétharram mean "solid wig ' in from Bearn) and more than eighty miracles would have been listed in the XVIIe there century. The sanctuary of the XVIth and XVIIth centuries is a jewel of baroque art in Béarn

Lestelle-Bétharram is the first great site of Pyrenean Marian pilgrimage. Legend has it that at the riverbank of the Gave of Pau, young shepherds found a statue of the Virgin Mary. The priest at Lestelle,(“the star” in béarnais), wanted to keep it but the statue kept returning to where it had been found. The faithful built an oratory dedicated to what the church called “the Morning Star”. The story also goes that a young girl washed away by the stream called on “Holy Mary”, the protector of the place. A branch was extended towards her and she was saved. This “beautiful branch” (“beau rameau” in French), is “beth arram” in béarnais, which gave the name to the place. The Oratory became a Catholic shrine and, long before Lourdes, countless pilgrims flocked to this place of Marian devotion.

The small village of Bétharram was once primarily known as a place of pilgrimage near Lourdes and prior to it. This explains the presence today of a sanctuary and a calvary. Since almost eight centuries, the Virgin is worshipped in Bétharram under several very popular names. Within the confines of a building of the sanctuary, the Pères de Bétharram heritage museum brings together a motley collection of objects: coins and banknotes, minerals and fossils, prehistoric and lithic industry, embroidery, sculptures and paintings, crafts. Inaugurated in 1936, it aims is to explain that the congregation has a missionary purpose, in connection with the very first mission that took place in China, before spreading in other countries.

Between Béarn and Bigorre, Montaut was created in 1308 by the Viscountess of Béarn. Today there are still remnants of the original walled town. First the facades of traditional Béarnaise houses from the 18th century that attest to a time of prosperity due to the extraction of lime. These furnaces dot the landscape and form it, with the church, fountains, laundries. The church, from 1540, on the central square (an exception in the walled towns), was transformed into a Protestant church during the French Wars of Religion. In the 12th century, it was a pilgrimage site, near Lourdes, which led to a major industry in the 17th century of buttons and rosaries.

Straddling the Béarn (Pyrénées-Atlantiques) and Bigorre (Hautes-Pyrénées) a unique discovery awaits you: the Bétharram Grottos. Head out for the complete crossing of a mountain with punting, exit in a little train. The caves are among the most beautiful and strange to visit as they give away, in the variety of their aspects, the key to the formation of almost all caves, either dead or active. See the 5 superimposed storeys dug out at different times. The 1st level is accessible to people with reduced mobility. Explanations are given over a PA in 10 languages.

The Restaurant Le Vieux Logis is ideally located at the foot of the Pyrenees, in an authentic and peaceful natural environment, between Nay in Béarn and Lourdes in Bigorre. From there, you are every close to the track of the way of Piedmont, one of the paths towards Santiago de Compostela and on the véloroute V 81 Pyrénées-Gave-Adour. Close to the famous Bétharram Grottos, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye's restaurant offers country cuisine highlighting local producers. From here, you are close to the passage of the voie du Piémont, one of the roads to Santiago de Compostela. The restaurant has also been awarded 3 "cocottes" in the Logis guide making it one of the region's essential restaurants.

Located in the heart of the charming village of Igon, Chez Ludo restaurant offers a gastronomic getaway to Italy with authentic cuisine. Headed by Chef Ludo, this warm and friendly venue offers dishes and pizzas featuring local and seasonal produce. In a rustic, intimate setting, every visit to Chez Ludo promises a culinary break with the flavors of Italy to the delight of guests.

Lou Papà, located in Asson in the Pyrenees in the Ouzom valley, is a pizzeria. Marjaurie, welcomes you to her restaurant Lou Papa, where taking the time to relax and savor regional products is a pleasure. It's a convivial place for a gourmet break, offering homemade pizzas and pasta made with local ingredients, with a grocery store selling local beers and Béarn products. Whether you want to relax on the terrace or take your meals away, Lou Papà is ideal for those who enjoy simple, delicious moments.

Right in the heart of town, ideally located between Pau, Tarbes and Lourdes, the Hôtel du Commerce serves authentic gourmet cuisine. "A friendly place where you can eat well" is how regulars describe the place. For meat lovers, there's the popular grilled entrecôte de b?uf, coq au vin, the unmissable omelette aux cèpes, paëlla, cruji coques and a variety of desserts. Something for everyone's taste buds...

Located in the Intermarché shopping zone in the village of Coarraze, Antonio welcomes you to his friendly Pizza Mona restaurant. The chef offers quality Italian cuisine with a varied range of well-stuffed pizzas with crisp, thin dough, as well as salads and pasta dishes to be eaten on the spot in a friendly, pleasant atmosphere inside or on the terrace. You can also have take away.

Dominando el Torrente pirenaico de Pau, el pueblo de Coarraze está situado al pie de los Pirineos entre Pau y Lourdes. Es en el pueblo típico de Béarn, en lo que el restaurante el Bienvenido le acoge y donde a los habitantes locales les gusta encontrarse. Su jefe Olivier, le propone una cocina amistosa a base de productos locales con diferentes fórmulas: platos del día, à la carte y también su menú especial " Gallina al Pote " sobre reserva.

Located not far from the center of Pontacq, the café de France will serve you its "bistro" cuisine with market products. The chef will share with you his traditional cooking modernized according to the seasons with fresh products. For the amateurs of good meat, the false net garni is proposed every day!

Located in Bénéjacq, in the heart of the village and on the main square close to the shops, Les Petits Gourmands restaurant is the fusion of two restaurants: La Pizz' and Tirant d'Eau. Freddy and his team welcome you to a culinary pole with several types of restaurant. In the morning, you'll find a bread and pastry shop for a gourmet break. At lunchtime, your restaurant owners offer traditional brasserie-style dining. In the evening, try the homemade pizzas prepared by Freddy and Jonathan (takeaway from October to June and eat-in and takeaway from June to October). The restaurant comes alive two nights a week on Friday and Saturday evenings with bistro-bar evenings. The roast chicken at Sunday lunchtime will not leave you indifferent.

Located at the entrance of the town of Pontacq, not far from Tarbes and Lourdes, this small restaurant is worth a visit. Lovers of good food and nice atmosphere, this restaurant cellar wine bar is for you. You will be served fresh dishes changing according to the seasons: piquillos stuffed with meat or fish, oyster mushrooms, melted camembert and walnut salad, seafood risotto are some of the dishes on offer, all accompanied by a good little wine proposed by the chef.

Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, in the commune of Nay, is a restaurant that will take you on a journey to Japan. This Japanese restaurant was created by two Japanese enthusiasts who have been immersed in the world of manga since childhood. Fabien and Marie welcome you for a gourmet break with an ever-changing menu. Treat yourself to carefully prepared ramen, donburi, gyoza and yakitori. You can also try vegetarian dishes. Don't forget to try the Japanese drinks and desserts to tantalise your taste buds with flavours from around the world.

Between Nay and Lourdes, in Lestelle-Bétharram, this fully renovated old house adjoining the owners' home, offers a beautiful view of the plains and mountains. This house has two large bedrooms and everything needed for an enjoyable stay. Outside, you can enjoy a large park with its south facing terrace, la plancha, ping-pong table as well as the volleyball net. The region being rich in cultural heritage, you will be able to explore the walled town of Lestelle-Bétharram and the Bétharram Grottos. You could also walk to the Croix des Hauteurs, which is very close to the cottage, and enjoy its breath-taking views. For lovers of aquatic life, the Gave de Pau is bursting with fishing spots.

Near Nay and Lourdes, the Vieux Logis hotel-restaurant is located a few steps from the region's most important tourist site, the Bétharram grottos. This family home has been lovingly converted into a charming hotel complex by their owners, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye. Today, the hotel-restaurant offers a contemporary décor. With its 28 rooms labelled Logis (3 "cocottes" and 3 "fireplaces"), and its 5 huts ("Insolite By Logis"), this establishment is a safe bet as much for the quality of the reception and its rooms, as for its restaurant. The cuisine served showcases the local gastronomy.

Close to the Ossau valley, in the bastide town of Lestelle-Bétharram, you'll find the Gite Chez Clouté. This large, detached gite combines old-world charm with modern touches and boasts views of the mountains and surrounding countryside. Anne-Marie welcomes you to a house with 3 bedrooms, a lounge, a large kitchen and a private garden with terrace. Nearby, you can enjoy white-water sports such as rafting or canoeing, or take a walk in the fresh air and visit the sanctuaries of Lestelle. Quench your thirst for curiosity with the heritage trail, which traces the history of the bastide town of Lestelle-Bétharram, a walled city built in the Middle Ages.

At the heart of this walled town of Lestelle Bétharram, the school complex "Le Beau Rameau" is located near Nay towards Lourdes. Equipped with 30 beds throughout the year and 130 during the school holidays, the hotel offers half-board or full board. Ideal for sports groups, it has sports fields, an indoor gym, a wall, tennis, basketball and handball courts. It is equipped with a meeting room with free WiFi. Near the Chemin Henri IV overlooking the Gave de Pau, it is ideally located for groups of hikers, cyclists and white water enthusiasts.

At the heart of the fortified town of Lestelle Bétharram, Accueil Notre-Dame is located near the Nay-Lourdes axis, on the Way of St. James. Pilgrimage capital in the 17th century, Accueil Notre Dame, with its 22 rooms and 42 beds, welcomes pilgrims year-round for one or more nights, with or without breakfast, or even on half-board (on reservation). It is also a home for a retreat or a quiet stay. The home is attached to the sanctuary, a unique masterpiece of Baroque art in Béarn, composed of the 17th century Chapel of Our Lady, the old bridge with a single arch and a calvary with 15 stations.

The village of Lestelle Bétharram between Nay and Lourdes, offers visitors passing through a reception area for campers. The reception area is located near "Le Saillet", the municipal campsite, and many white water activities on the Gave de Pau, and it is also less than 5 minutes walking distance from the heart of the walled town founded in 1335, the Bétharram Sanctuary and shops. Attention: there are no flushing and filling terminals.

The Millepertuis gîte is a pretty barn renovated by Nathalie and Philippe, facing the Pyrenees. Large bay windows open onto a large wooden terrace overlooking the vast meadows and farmland of the village of Montaut. The single-storey layout is functional and accessible to people with disabilities. The house is bathed in a soft, pleasant atmosphere, combining contemporary style with exposed beams and restored furniture.

Located on the banks of the gave (mountain stream), close to the centre of the walled town of Lestelle-Bétharram the Saillet 3* campsite is located just a few steps away from the Bétharram Sanctuary and the Way of St. James. With a complex of 12 equipped chalets and 85 campsites, the campground is ideal for a holiday or a weekend in a green setting. Hiking, rafting, hydro speeding or fishing will seduce those who are more active, while others will prefer to relax by the pool or visit the Nay Region in Béarn. The le Saillet campsite is, above all a holiday in the countryside!

Just a few kilometres from Lourdes, in the bastide town of Montaut, you'll find the Ty Heol Glaz bed and breakfast. This Breton-sounding name is a nod to the region where Nicole, the owner, was born. The house in which you'll be staying is a large 18th-century Béarnaise building overlooking a beautifully wooded garden and the Pyrenean foothills. The three spacious, colourful bedrooms can accommodate up to 10 people. After a day full of sightseeing (Bétharram caves, sanctuary, nearby white-water activities), head to the garden for a relaxing break in the pool.

Between Pau and Lourdes, Mr and Mrs Vives' home, in the walled town of Montaut, welcomes you for an active holiday in the heart of the Pyrenees. The owners offer a storeroom for fishermen, sledges or mountain bikes and will share their knowledge of the area with you to direct you towards marked trails, marked hiking and biking loops and other fishing spots. You are also close to the Col du Soulor, well known to fans of the Tour de France. The large 16146 sq ft enclosed garden with flowers and trees will be the ideal recreational area to play safely. To each his own pleasures, whether they be cultural or gourmet, there is something for everyone.