The top 5 activities to do in the Pyrenees National Park in Béarn

It is one of eleven national parks in France. Straddling the Pyrénées Atlantiques (Béarn) and the Hautes-Pyrénées, it is an essential destination for lovers of nature and the outdoors. With its spectacular landscapes, its high peaks, its exceptional fauna and flora, this park offers a multitude of activities to discover. We will introduce you to the 5 best things to do in the Pyrenees National Park, in Béarn.

Photos of the report: Guide du Béarn Pyrénées

Opening photo: Plateau de l'Hers on the Accous side

1 - Hikes in the valleys of the Pyrenees National Park

The Pyrenees National Park is full of exceptional natural sites, such as the Ossau Valley and the Aspe Valley. They offer a multitude of hiking trails suitable for all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker , you can enjoy magnificent landscapes, waterfalls, high altitude lakes and why not spend the night in a refuge.

In the Aspe Valley, for example:

• The Fort du Portalet hike is 7km long and allows you to take the unmissable path of the mature.
• The Ansabère cabins is a 10km family hike.
• The Lac d'Estaens loop is 10km long and allows you to meet beautiful high-altitude lakes.

In the excursions in valley of Ossau (fr), are numerous. A network of 12 signposted paths organized by the Pyrenees National Park is ideal for discovering its wonders.

2 - Climbing iconic peaks

For mountain and mountaineering enthusiasts, the Pyrenees National Park offers ascents of prestigious peaks. The Pic du Midi d'Ossau is one of the most emblematic, with its recognizable silhouette. The ascent requires good physical condition and some experience, but the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. The Pic d'Anie is another popular summit, accessible to hikers of all levels, offering a splendid panorama of the surrounding valleys.

3 - Observation of fauna and flora

The Pyrenees National Park is a veritable sanctuary for fauna and flora. You can explore the region's biodiversity by observing ibexes, chamois, marmots, bearded vultures and a multitude of bird species. Botany enthusiasts will be enchanted by the diversity of wild flowers and endemic plant species present in the park. Naturalist guides can accompany you to deepen your knowledge of this unique ecosystem!

4 - Visit pretty villages in the Pyrenees National Park

• Lescun reveals its grandiose circus, very beautiful view from the village
• Borce is at the heart of the park, nestled in the Aspe valley
• Accous is a small town that does not lack charm and offers beautiful hikes
• Laruns is on the banks of the Gave d'Ossau, it is a lively and dynamic place in summer.
• The Eaux-Bonnes spa resort awaits you for a rejuvenating moment.

5 - Participate in workshops, conferences and activities organized by the park

Consult the agenda of the Pyrenees National Park (fr), it is full (especially in season) of activities that take place in the villages, but also in the "Maisons du Parc National". This is an opportunity to learn, discover the trades of yesteryear and the customs of these mountain villages. You will learn about the fauna and flora, biodiversity...

The Pyrenees National Park is a real paradise for nature lovers. Get ready to live moments of sport, adventure, playful pedagogy, in the heart of the French Pyrenees.

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