Do I need to book in advance to take part in the walks?

Yes, registration is essential and compulsory for all outings. Bookings must be made directly with the Pau Guides’ Office.

Are the hikes suitable for families with children?

Yes. Several outings are specially designed for families, such as ‘Between Sky and Ridges: Encountering Birds of Prey’, ‘Shepherd’s Crook Mission’ and ‘Land of Sheep, Marmots and Chamois’. The minimum age varies depending on the activity, but is generally 6 years and over.

What level is required to take part?

The difficulty level depends on the hike you choose. Some walks are suitable for everyone, including families, whilst the ‘Mondays on the Summits’ series is aimed at fit walkers, with ascents that can exceed 1,000 metres in elevation gain.

Where are the meeting points?

Most hikes set off at 8am from the Verdun Nord car park in Pau. Some activities, such as canyoning, have specific meeting points in the Ossau Valley. Detailed information is provided for each outing.

What are the prices for the hikes?

Half-day: €24 per adult, €20 per child, €75 for a family (2 adults and 2 children). Full day: €33 per adult, €25 per child, €100 for a family. Some activities have a specific flat rate, such as Les lundis des sommets (€40) or canyoning (€55).

Is equipment provided?

The excursions are led by professional guides. The specific equipment required may vary depending on the activity. We recommend that you enquire when booking to find out what equipment you will need to bring.

Can you take part in canyoning without any previous experience?

Yes. The introductory canyoning trip in the Ossau Valley is designed to be suitable for beginners. The routes are fun, safe and require no technical experience.

What will I discover on these hikes?

As well as the walk itself, these excursions offer a deeper understanding of the Pyrenees thanks to the guides’ explanations: wildlife spotting, an insight into pastoralism, geology, mountain traditions, iconic landscapes and local expertise.

How can I contact the Pau Guides Office?

You can contact the Guides’ Office on 07 82 46 33 54, by email at contact@guides-pau.com, or visit the website guides-pau.com.

Will the outings go ahead in bad weather?

Weather conditions in the mountains may affect the running of activities. If in doubt, we recommend that you contact the Guides’ Office before setting off to find out about any changes or cancellations.

Pau Tourist Information Office: summer 2026 outings

Six nature walks In partnership with the Maison de la Montagne and the Pau Association of Mountain Guides and Leaders

On the programme:
Challenging climbs to the peaks, exploring the flora and fauna of the Pyrenees, immersing yourself in the mountain forest environment, canyoning trips and other encounters with the people who bring the mountains to life…

Presented by

1. Between sky and ridges: Meet the birds of prey

Take the family on a trip along stunning panoramic ridges to encounter the great birds of prey of the Pyrenees, the true lords of the sky. Learn to identify them, understand their behaviour and uncover the secrets of their life high in the mountains.

Practical information:
Sunday afternoons
Ages 6 and up
Meet at 8am at Place de Verdun Nord – Destination Col de l’Aubisque

Prices:
Adults > €24
Child > €20
Family (2 adults + 2 children) > €75

Booking / Information:
07 82 46 33 54

Registration at the Maison de la Montagne

2. Mondays at the summits A well-deserved promotion!

A challenging hike with a demanding route featuring at least 1,000 metres of elevation gain to an iconic summit. A wonderful mountain adventure for keen walkers, rewarded with spectacular views and the satisfaction of reaching the summit.

Practical information:
Mondays
For fit walkers aged 12 and over
Meet at 8am at the Verdun Nord car park – Destination Vallée d’Ossau

Prices:
Single trip > €40

Booking / Information:
07 82 46 33 54

Send a request to the Pau Guide Bureau

3. Shepherd’s crook mission Immersed in a forest environment

A half-day immersive family experience, exploring the forest environment and its secrets in the mountains. Make your own shepherd’s crook
, drawing on traditional skills. A fun and authentic experience to reconnect with nature, create something with your own hands and share a special moment together.

Practical information:
Tuesday mornings
Ages 6 and up
Meet at 8am at Place de Verdun Nord – Destination Lac d’Ayous

Prices:
Adults > €24
Child > €20
Family (2 adults + 2 children) > €75

Booking / Information:
07 82 46 33 54

Send a request to the Pau Guide Bureau

4. Land of sheep, marmots and chamois Encountering a living mountain

Set off to explore a living mountain where pastoral life and wild nature blend harmoniously. As you follow the trails, come across flocks of sheep on summer pasture, spot marmots, chamois and birds of prey, and soak up the richness of the unspoilt flora and fauna. An immersive hike combining human traditions and wide open spaces, in the heart of the National Park.

Practical information:
Wednesdays
Ages 6 and over
Meet at 8am at Place de Verdun Nord – Destination Cirque d’Aneou

Prices:
Adults > €33
Child > €25
Family (2 adults + 2 children) > €100

Booking / Information:
07 82 46 33 54

Send a request to the Pau Guide Bureau

Advice... of hiking friends!

Choosing the right exitTo make the most of it

Choose an outing suited to your level. You’ll enjoy the mountains more when the itinerary matches your abilities.
Our advice:
Always check the advertised difficulty before booking and never play down the advertised difficulties.

Preparing the essentialsWithout overloading

There’s no need to overdo it, but there are a few essentials: suitable footwear and clothing, water, snacks and a comfortable bag. Depending on the outing, remember to bring special equipment, such as binoculars for birds of prey.
And for bivouacs, equipment is available on loan.

Anticipating your departureTo aim calmly for the finish

A successful outing starts with simple, smooth organisation.

Be sure to check the meeting time and place, especially if you are planning to leave from Pau by car.
Arriving a little early means you can set off with peace of mind.

Taking the timeAnd look around you

Hiking isn’t just about walking.

It’s also about observing the fauna, flora, landscapes and all that the mountains reveal along the way.

Your best reflex? Slowing down a little, opening your eyes and ears wide to enjoy it all.

5. Reflections of Ayous and the flavours of summer pastures Off the beaten track: an insight into the life of a shepherd

A hike off the beaten track to the magnificent Ayous Lakes, true gems nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees. Far from the crowds, you’ll get a glimpse into the life of a shepherd and share an authentic moment over a glass of Jurançon* (for the
) and some sheep’s cheese. An intimate and gourmet experience, combining wild nature and living traditions.

Practical information:
Thursdays
Ages 10 and over
Meet at 8am at Place de Verdun Nord – Destination Lac d’Ayous

Prices:
Adults > €33
Child > €25
Family (2 adults + 2 children) > €100

Booking / Information:
07 82 46 33 54

Send a request to the Pau Guide Bureau

6. Introductory canyoning in the Ossau Valley A journey into the wild landscapes of the Pyrenees

From natural slides to abseiling, immerse yourself in the wild landscapes of the Pyrenees! Canyoning trips suitable for everyone in the heart of the Ossau Valley, focusing on fun and safe routes with no technical requirements.

Practical information:
Fridays
Ages 10 and over
Meeting point:
Morning trip > 8am at the Laruns secondary school car park
Afternoon trip > at 1pm in the car park at the Bious Canyon in Gabas

Prices:
Single trip > €55

Booking / Information:
07 82 46 33 54

Send a request to the Pau Guide Bureau

Contact us - Booking With the Pau Guide Bureau

Pau Guides Office

Would you like to book a tour or find out more?
Please don’t hesitate to contact our team of tour guides, who are here to help and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Cité des Pyrénées
At Alpy’Rando
2, rue Alessandro Volta
64000 PAU
07 82 46 33 54

Contact us / Book