Visit the three magnificent valleys of Ossau, Aspe, and Barétous
The Ossau, Aspe, and Barétous valleys constitute the three Béarn valleys that cut through the Pyrenees mountain range between Bigorre and the Basque Country. Connected to Aragon by the Pourtalet and Somport passes, and to Upper Navarre by the Pierre-Saint-Martin pass, they offer a diversity of landscapes (mainly mountainous) and activities to satisfy every hiker. Along these highlands, where you'll encounter shepherds and herds on their migration, you can admire proud snow-capped peaks, explore chasms and caves, descend spectacular canyons, fish in unspoiled mountain lakes, or enjoy the region's thermal springs. With its popular ski resorts in winter and hiking trails open in summer, this region offers multi-season tourism.
The Pyrenees National Park occupies a large part of the upper Ossau and Aspe valleys, protecting an exceptionally rich fauna (chamois, griffon vultures, marmots) and flora (mountain pines, rhododendrons). Its landscapes alternate between deep forests, glacial cirques, verdant summer pastures, and jagged peaks, offering breathtaking panoramas. At the crossroads of several cultures, the region is also distinguished by its Béarnese heritage: typical villages, local gastronomy (including summer cheeses), pastoral festivals, and more. These ingredients make these three valleys an authentic place, where nature, outdoor sports, and traditions combine to offer a unique experience at the foot of the Pyrenees.
In this guide, developed by Patrick Espel, you'll find a brief overview of the valleys, the Cirque de Lescun, pastoralism, and 20 hikes with detailed information on elevation changes, times, kilometers, stages, points of interest, maps, and trail markings.
The Chamina guide to must-see hikes is lightweight and convenient to carry with you.
Features:
- Edition: 2025
- Language: French
- Dimensions: 21 x 14 cm
- Number of pages: 48
- Weight: 0.096 kg
- Publisher: Chamina
