Discover Ossun, Hautes-Pyrénées, Midi-Pyrénées

Come and stroll through this pretty Béarn town on the banks of the river Ousse. A 13th-century tower, part of the town?s ramparts and the 14th-century Gothic church still stand. In Place Du Barry stands a bronze goose, the advanced sentinel of Béarn, once responsible for warning Béarn towns threatened by invaders from Bigorre. The town?s coat of arms features a Latin motto: Melior vigilentia somno (Better watch than sleep). A 2 km circuit entitled "Pontacq, a heritage along the water" takes you on a tour of Pontacq's beautiful heritage. Open to all, all year round.

Evoking Lourdes in the Middle Ages is a historical itinerary reminding the medieval city of Lorda, former name of Lourdes, protected by its two rows of fortifications with twelve towers and nestled at the bottom of the fortified castle – place of residence of the counts of Bigorre since the 11th century. This itinerary, partly virtual, transports the visitors some centuries back. The illustrated boards present a retrospective overview of the medieval city of Lourdes. This itinerary which can be done in one hour includes eleven points of interest. The Bernadette’s life path presents the small city of Lourdes, in its social and historical context, before, during and after the Apparitions of 1858. From the nineteenth century up to now, the visitor follows the evolution of the city and its necessary transformations to foster the crowds This itinerary reveals, under the form of illustrated boards, the Marian city such as Bernadette knew and frequented it. This itinerary which can be done in one hour includes seventeen points of interest.

The Bernadette’s life path presents the small city of Lourdes, in its social and historical context, before, during and after the Apparitions of 1858. From the nineteenth century up to now, the visitor follows the evolution of the city and its necessary transformations to foster the crowds This itinerary reveals, under the form of illustrated boards, the Marian city such as Bernadette knew and frequented it. This itinerary which can be done in 1h30mn includes seventeen points of interest.

Summary : Visit of the town of Lourdes on the eve of the Apparitions Duration : approx. 2hrs The visit begins in front of the Tourist Office.

Discover one of the most beautiful valleys in the Pyrenees at your own pace, on foot or by bike. All along this 17 km route, you will find information about the villages around you and services on offer. Their rich heritage is well worth the visit! Nature fans will constantly be tempted to adventure off the trail on either side to explore the:  Lavedan paths  Gave river-bank paths  mountain-bike and bicycle paths

Three basilicas and three types of art in the Sanctuaries of Our Lady of Lourdes (Afternoon visits are preferable, after the morning services and before the procession at 17.00h)

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.

Situated between Pau and Tarbes, this immense water reserve extends over four communes on the borders of the Hautes-Pyrénées and Pyrénées-Atlantiques departments, in a very gently undulating countryside environment. Completed in 2007, Lac du Gabas already offers innovative facilities that make it a place to visit, stroll around and find out more, designed and developed for all publics. Let's discover the small lake, located upstream from the large Gabas lake.

This pleasant walk in the wood is perfect for hot days when you are looking for shade and the cooling power of streams. A passage on the Henri IV path will give you a unique view of the Pyrenees before going back under the canopy. You will discover centenarian trees in these woods. We can say “old trees” only after several centuries. A hundred years old oak tree is only in the prime of life. The managers of the forest following the footsteps of their ancestors and know that they will only see a partial result of their own work. The trees planted today will benefit the next generations. The Cassou de la Crouts dets Hers and the big beech tree seen during the walk are in some way the wise old ones of the forest. Many others before us stopped beneath their branches. If they could talk, how many amazing stories could they tell?

An excellent downhill route through the Morlaàs region. The route takes in valleys, plains and undergrowth, with the Pyrenees as a backdrop. Linking these two superb lakes by mountain bike is an experience not to be missed.

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.

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.

Would you like to spend an unusual, romantic night in a bubble under the stars? Come and discover the Reves2bulles estate, located near Pau, the Pyrenees and the Atlantic coast, and cut yourself off from everyday life for a night, a weekend or more, as a couple or with friends. In the evening, you'll be able to watch the sunset and the stars come out from your cosy bed. You'll never want to close your eyes again! A unique experience for two, in a fully heated, semi-transparent bubble.

Discover Béarn, Pau and its valleys while enjoying a fondue like you've never tasted before. Laurent, a native of Béarn, has selected the most beautiful itineraries for you. You can download the itinerary of your hike onto your cell phone, or take the topographical map with you. On the menu, local products from short circuits, selected to offer the best to your taste buds. All tours are no more than 1 hour from the capital of Béarn. Fondue kit and itineraries included.

L'Amandier is located at about 10 kms North-East from the city of Pau. On the Hourquie square, surrounded by trees, this renovated hotel/restaurant will warmly welcome you all year long. Stéphane and his family will be delighted to receive you for your next visit to the area. Preferential pricing is applied for travelling salesmen and pilgrims.

Only 5 minutes from the centre of Pau, Hotel Eden Park welcomes you in a human-sized setting where calm, rest and conviviality are the keywords. With 26 rooms, Hotel Eden Park is proud of its Californian architecture: its refined lines, verdant setting with exotic trees and outdoor swimming pool will make your stay a moment of pleasure and relaxation. All rooms have a private furnished terrace with a view on the swimming pool and/or the Pyrenees. Non-smoking rooms. A catering service is proposed to you on your arrival. Free fibre optic Wi-Fi network and free, closed parking under video surveillance.

L'Esberit is a 5-minute drive from downtown Pau, in a bucolic setting, a listed building nestled at the foot of a century-old oak tree. Private parking for 18 cars is available opposite the restaurant. This is a "gourmet" restaurant, offering gastronomic cuisine. Every day, it offers a variety of menus based on the freshest quality produce from a rare locality. You'll be seduced by this inventive cuisine, which you can enjoy in a charming setting with contemporary decor. It's a pleasant and convenient stop-off point for you when shopping or visiting Pau. Today, Nicolas Lormeau has been elected Young Talent 2021 by Gault et Millau, and received the Terroir d'Exception award from the same guide in 2022. Label "Collège Culinaire de France". Online booking. Possibility of privatizing a lounge

This restaurant is located north of Pau on the outskirts of the city. At Les Petites Canailles, the emphasis is on conviviality without neglecting our exceptional cuisine. We're proud to offer a menu composed entirely of homemade dishes, delighting your taste buds with every bite. If you wish, our talented DJs are on hand to create a festive atmosphere for evenings out with friends. Come and explore our magnificent restaurant in Pau.

A recent and economic hotel located not far from the city centre (4 km). The rooms are equipped with shower, toilet, TV with Canal+, free Wi-Fi access and air conditioning. The hotel offers family rooms for 4 people and connecting rooms. Excellent value for money, the hotel is open round the clock with a night receptionist. Free, closed parking. The hotel is opposite Auchan, located on the same car park as Hotel Campanile with food available and many other restaurants in the immediate vicinity.

In Pontacq, behind the village hall, a large, tranquil area on the banks of the river Ousse offers a range of facilities for resting, playing or picnicking. A play area for toddlers, a basketball city stadium, ping-pong table, pump-track, table soccer and tables, barbecues and deckchairs.

In Pontacq, at the edge of the Ousse river and its old wash house, you will find 4 picnic tables near all the shops.

Located in Pontacq, just 15 min from Lourdes and 30 min from Tarbes and Pau, the conservation room for local industry at Maison Rey reminds us of the town?s industrial past and ancient crafts. Leatherworking developed here from the 19th century onwards, and Pontacq became a shoe capital in the mid-20th century, with some forty workshops and factories. The Patrimoine en Ribère Ousse association invites you to discover these local treasures, brought back to life by heritage enthusiasts, through educational panels, tools and machines.

This family farm is located on the Ger plateau, at the gateway to Béarn and Bigorre. It is committed to sustainable, local agriculture, with a focus on the consumer through short distribution channels. Growing cereals, Florence and Aurélien decided in 2020 to set up a broiler poultry and laying hen farm. These chickens are bred from a hardy stock, raised in the open air and fed on the farm's own cereals. Come and discover their daily life with the chickens, the feed factory and the agroforestry project. Farm store: whole chickens ready to cook, poultry cuts, free-range eggs, preserves. Roast chicken on 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. Possibility of group meals at the farm or cooking outside for meals or events. Events and meetings throughout the year.

The development of Lourdes is connected to pilgrims’ trains. On March 9, 1866 the station was inaugurated and the first steam engine reached Lourdes on March 27. In 1887, the definitive station was finished with its metallic structure and its 92 meters long platforms. For the fiftieth anniversary of the Apparitions, up to 300 000 pilgrims came to Lourdes by train, the beginnings of the arrival of countless crowds on the 20th century.

In the hospice, Bernadette Soubirous attended religious instruction classes before the Apparitions. On June 3, 1858 she did there her first holy communion. After the Apparitions, she was admitted as a boarder to protect her against visitors’ harassment and to get an education. Finally, she left definitely Lourdes on July 4, 1866 to join Saint-Gildard convent in Nevers.

The “cagots” were a marginal social minority. They have lived under four main interdictions: to marry the rest of the population; to have neighbours freely; to be buried in the same cemeteries; and to work the earth, forcing them to wood related activities. Therefore, the community needed them for the construction of houses and buildings and paid them for that.

The origin of “cagots” is not well defined: medical? In the Middle Ages, the lepers have been assimilated to “cagots”, afterwards the leper became an excuse. Ethnical? Meaning descendants of Visigoths. Religious? For example descendants of Moors? Their existence is proven since the 12th century under the name of crestias and their segregation had lasted in the Pyrenees until the middle of the 20th century.

In the old times, the road crossed the Lapacca River on the Arrieux Bridge and climbed up the “rue Basse”. In 1844 was built the “chaussée Maransin” to avoid this steep section. The Lapacca River, underground since 1883, flows under the square and the boulevard towards the Gave River. Its course allowed to operate some watermills. The Lapacca square became Jeanne d’Arc square after her beatification in 1909.

Bernadette Soubirous’s family had to face poverty, moving of home frequently, unable to pay the rents. Bernadette’s parents, each one descendant of millers, had lived in five watermills in this area of the Lapacca: three in the higher course, among which Moulin Boly where was born Bernadette in 1844, and two toward the Gave river: Moulin Baudéan and Moulin Gras.

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 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 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.

The "Bistrot - Restaurant Chez Simon" is located on Route Départementale 817, between Pau and Tarbes, on the "Haut d'Espoey", equidistant from Pau and Tarbes. Chef Simon has created a place inspired by the "pleasure of giving pleasure". Each and every one of us will find an atmosphere, a setting and a cuisine to suit our expectations. The Bistro atmosphere, where you can share a warm, friendly moment over a drink. Restaurant-style, where you can enjoy gourmet dishes indoors or out. Simon's cuisine is inspired by the delicacies of our grandmothers, combined with the savoir-faire of French gastronomy. Between land and sea and sweet and savory.

Located on the Haut d'Espoey between Tarbes and Lourdes, this family-run restaurant serves generous, gourmet cuisine concocted by passionate chef Pierre. The dishes are different every day, so there's no set menu, just the inspiration of the moment and the desire to help customers discover new flavors: poached eggs with pumpkin cream, duck parmentier, truffle purée, fresh verbena panacotta with strawberry coulis? On Saturday lunchtimes, La Halte transforms itself into a "bistronomic" establishment, offering refined dishes as beautiful as they are delicious: truffle purée, guinea fowl ballotins, low-temperature boletus stuffing with carrot mousseline au siphon.

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 in the charming village of Montaut, the "O Jour le Jour" restaurant invites you to enjoy a traditional culinary experience. Ideally located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region, the restaurant enjoys a privileged position close to Pau, Lourdes and Tarbes. Easily accessible, the "Ô Jour le Jour" restaurant is the perfect destination for a lunch break. Whether you're just passing through, on vacation or a local resident, come and discover this haven of peace where gastronomy blends with the beauty of our heritage. Enjoy a meal on the sunny terrace in summer, or let yourself be seduced by the warm, intimate atmosphere of the indoor dining room.

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.

In the heart of the town of Soumoulou, we welcome you in a warm and friendly atmosphere. We offer traditional "home-made" cuisine with specialties from the South-West. Add to this true moment of pleasure the possibility of attending evening games of Basque pelota played in our trinquet.

Located on the main axis of Soumoulou, the bar brasserie l'Univers will make you travel through its simple and traditional cuisine, all home-made. Conditions of boarding: smile and health pass essential. The Univers team will take you on a journey in a family atmosphere and in a good mood to offer you a pleasant moment. The outside temperature on the terrace will be warm and ambient, the counter warm and funny. We invite you to take a seat and wish you "Bon voyage" in the Universe!

Located at the crossroads of the Hautes-Pyrénées and Pyrénées-Atlantiques, just 15 minutes from Lourdes, this recently renovated family hotel is ideal for a business or tourist stopover You will stay in one of our 15 cosy rooms which will ensure you calm and comfort. We have two family rooms for 5 people and one quadruple room for 4 people. At the table of our restaurant, you will enjoy a traditional and tasty cuisine with a special emphasis on local products.

In the heart of the village of Pontacq, a small village in the Bearn region not far from Lourdes, you will be welcomed in a family suite occupying the entire attic floor of an 18th century Bearn house, which opens onto a park full of flowers and enclosed. You will have your breakfast in the living room by the fireplace and will be able to take advantage of the enclosed garden in a calm and private setting.

In this small village of Livron, not far from Tarbes, Lourdes and Pau, this large Béarnaise house and its pretty garden planted with trees are ideal for resting. Bordered by the river Ousse and sheltering an orchard, you will be able to relax, picnic or taste cherries and apples according to the seasons. The rich breakfasts will be served in the vast kitchen with a view on the orchard. Possibility of catering on site. You can consult books and maps of the region and ask Anne and Luc for advice for your walks and hikes in the Pyrenees.

The charming flower-filled village of Saint-Vincent lies at the heart of a number of hiking trails, including the Chemin Henri IV. It is home to La Colline des Chênes accommodation, set on its hillsides, with a view over the valley and its extensive countryside, from where you can hear the neighing of horses nearby. Sylvie welcomes you to a self-catering cottage in a Béarn-style property. This cosy accommodation sleeps 4. Relax away from the stress of everyday life by taking advantage of the facilities on offer, such as the swimming pool, reading, board games and over 5000m² of grounds with outdoor games. You might even hear the territorial song of the green woodpecker in the early hours of the morning. After a walk along the Chemin Henri IV, you will be warmly welcomed by your host Sylvie with the wellness facilities on site: sauna, massage and body modelling.

The charming flower-filled village of Saint-Vincent lies at the heart of a number of hiking trails, including the Chemin Henri IV. It is home to the La Colline au Balcon accommodation on its hillsides, with views over the valley and its extensive countryside, from where you can hear the neighing of horses nearby. Sylvie welcomes you to a self-catering cottage set in a Béarn-style property. This cosy accommodation sleeps 4. Relax away from the stress of everyday life by taking advantage of the amenities on offer, including a swimming pool, reading room, board games and over 5000m² of grounds with outdoor games. You might even hear the territorial song of the green woodpecker in the early hours of the morning. After a walk along the Chemin Henri IV, you will be warmly welcomed by your host Sylvie with the wellness facilities on site: sauna, massage and body modelling.

The charming flower-filled village of Saint-Vincent lies at the heart of a number of footpaths, including the Chemin Henri IV. Its hillside is home to a number of guest rooms with views over the valley and its extensive landscapes, from where you can hear the neighing of horses nearby. Sylvie welcomes you to her guest rooms: les 3 collines. These cosy rooms are set in a restored Béarnaise property and have a different atmosphere: Mineral, Eucalyptus and Chocolate. There is a tea corner where you can read or play the board games provided. You might even hear the territorial song of the green woodpecker in the early hours of the morning. After a day of sightseeing, your host Sylvie will give you a warm welcome with the wellness facilities on offer: sauna, massage and body modelling.

Situated between the village and the Haut d'Espoey, not far from Tarbes, Lourdes and Pau, this contemporary detached two-storey house is built very close to the woods, with a splendid view of the Pyrenees mountain range You will be able to spend a pleasant stay in the middle of nature, have lunch on the well exposed covered terrace, borrow the bicycles to go and get your bread, walk in the wood and see a doe at the bend of a path, observe life in the sheepfold among the hens, sheep and mares, not far from the water mill canal. This property includes two gîtes with large enough open spaces to enjoy the view of nature.

A few steps away from the majestic Gabas lake and close to Pau, this new gîte on one level, functional and luminous, is located on a farm property and in a quiet area The owner's house is nearby with a separate access road. The address of the gite l'Orée du Bois is well named as from the house you can find paths for walking or lounging by the owner's pool to share.

Situated between the village and the Haut d'Espoey, not far from Tarbes, Lourdes and Pau, this contemporary detached house with modern decoration is built close to the woods, with a splendid view of the Pyrenees mountain range You will be able to spend a pleasant stay in the middle of nature, have lunch on the south-east facing terrace, borrow the bikes to fetch your bread, play ping-pong or walk in the woods, observe life in the sheepfold among the hens, sheep and mares, not far from the water mill canal. This property includes two gîtes with large enough open spaces to enjoy the view of nature.