Discover and enjoy the Ossau Valley No car!

To the south of Pau, the Ossau Valley invites you to head for the hills and slow down. Set amongst green hills, charming villages and the iconic peaks of the Pyrenees, it offers a spectacular natural setting, dominated by the recognisable silhouette of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau.
Thanks to the bus services, you can set off on a hike and explore a variety of routes to suit all tastes. It’s a different, more sustainable way to experience the mountains, where the pleasure of walking goes hand in hand with the joy of making the most of the great outdoors.

Hikes in the Ossau Valley Summer

In summer, the Ossau Valley invites you to go walking beneath the watchful gaze of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau, amongst high-altitude lakes, mountain pastures and stone villages.
As you follow the trails, breathe in the crisp Pyrenean air and savour the untamed beauty of Béarn.

1. The Ayous Lakes The emblematic

Accessible from Lake Bious-Artigues, this iconic route takes in a succession of high-altitude lakes, with the majestic Pic du Midi d’Ossau as a backdrop.
This hike is aimed at walkers who are already in good physical condition. Classified as intermediate, it requires a fair amount of stamina, particularly if you wish to complete the full loop. For a more manageable outing, you can easily opt for a return walk to the first lakes, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.

Transport tip:
From Place de Verdun in Pau, take bus 524 to the ‘Maison aux 5 sens’ stop, then bus 525 to the ‘Bious Oumettes’ stop
With CITRAM coaches. Check timetables and fares here.

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2. Séris Waterfall The family car

Nestled in lush greenery at the heart of the Ossau Valley, the hike to the Séris waterfall is an invitation to enjoy the cool air and relax. The path winds its way through woods and clearings before revealing a pretty waterfall set in peaceful surroundings.
This easy-level walk is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy an accessible hike with no major technical difficulties (best undertaken in dry weather).

Transport tip:
From Place de Verdun in Pau, take bus route 524 to the ‘Maison aux 5 sens’ stop.
With CITRAM coaches. Check timetables and fares here.

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3. The Arriu Mage Pastoral care

Starting from the village of Bielle, this circular walk links Bielle to Bilhères-en-Ossau along old paths, winding through woodland, meadows and open vantage points overlooking the surrounding countryside.
An easy walk, it is suitable for a wide range of walkers, whilst featuring a few climbs that add variety to the route. A pleasant walk, particularly enjoyable on hot days thanks to the shaded sections in the forest (Best done in dry weather).

Transport tip:
From Place de Verdun in Pau, take bus route 524 to the ‘Poste’ stop in Bielle.
With CITRAM coaches. Check timetables and fares here.

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Our advice

Discover the walk...Something different!

Set off for the peaks with the guides and tour leaders from Pau – passionate experts who’ll show you the way to the mountains with complete confidence.
Hiking, canyoning, skiing or mountaineering: choose your adventure and let them guide you.

Contact the Pau Guides’ Office

The Artouste trainThe highest in Europe!

Take a seat and let yourself be transported to the heart of the Pyrenees, amongst majestic peaks, wildlife and breathtaking views. A unique escape to be savoured with your eyes wide open, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the picture-postcard beauty of the Béarn region.

Everything you need to know about the Artouste Train

Hire a mountain bikeAnd discover the Ossau Greenway

Hop on a mountain bike and set off at your own pace along the Ossau Greenway, winding your way through the villages of the Béarn, past the cool waters of the Gave and the peaks of the Pyrenees. A gentle and invigorating getaway, perfect for taking a breather, cycling and soaking up the beauty of the scenery.

Hire a mountain bike

Your ticketBy coach

To travel on the bus for your walks, there’s no need to book your seat in advance: you pay the driver directly, in cash only.

Visit the CITRAM Pyrénées website

Hikes in the Ossau Valley Winter

In winter, the Ossau Valley is blanketed in snow, taking you on a journey through snow-covered forests, mountain villages and majestic peaks.
Whether on snowshoes or skis, breathe in the fresh air of the Pyrenees and enjoy the beauty of this season.

1. The Tour du Valentin Spa resorts and panoramic views

Starting from Laruns, this circular walk – suitable for all – takes you to Eaux-Bonnes, passing through the picturesque villages of Assouste and Aas, in the heart of the Ossau Valley.
With sweeping views of the mountains and paths steeped in history, the walk invites you to discover the elegant atmosphere of the old 19th-century spa resorts. An ideal hike for enjoying a break surrounded by nature and heritage.

Transport tip:
From Place de Verdun in Pau, take bus route 524 to the ‘Maison aux 5 sens’ stop.
Operated by CITRAM coaches. Check timetables and fares here.

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2. The Esteret Fountain Idyllic and magnificent

This pleasant walk up to the fountain offers a superb view of the village of Gère, the Ossau Valley, the Vultures’ Cliff and the majestic Pic du Ger. In spring, the path transforms into a veritable mountain garden, where wild geraniums, bellflowers and blue columbines grow side by side. A short, accessible walk to gain a little height and fully enjoy the Pyrenean scenery.

Transport tip:
From Place de Verdun in Pau, take bus route 524 to the Gère-Belestin stop ‘Bourg Bélesten’.
With CITRAM coaches. Check timetables and fares here.

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3. The Arudy Basin A country walk

This lovely circular walk invites you to explore the villages of the Ossau Valley along rural paths that are often shaded. All along the route, six villages reveal their character and authenticity, blending the heritage of the Béarn region with a mountain atmosphere. Along the way, numerous panoramic views open up onto the foothills of the Pyrenees, offering a pleasant and accessible walk to fully enjoy the valley’s landscapes.

Transport tip:
From Place de Verdun in Pau, take bus route 524 to the ‘Poste’ stop in Arudy.
With CITRAM coaches. Check timetables and fares here.