The Aspe Valley
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Vallée d'Aspe - Séjour en Aspe
Discover the Aspe Valley: nature, villages and activities
The Aspe Valley is a true treasure for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts seeking wide open spaces. Located in the Béarn Pyrenees, this valley offers breathtaking landscapes: majestic mountains, verdant forests, crystal-clear rivers, and picturesque villages that seem straight out of a postcard.
The valley offers activities for all tastes, whether it be hiking in the summer, skiing or snowshoeing in the winter, or paragliding for those who wish to explore the Pyrenees sky.
Picturesque villages not to be missed
The valley is dotted with charming villages where it's pleasant to stroll:
Bedous : Bedous, mentioned as early as the 12th century, is located in a wide glacial valley surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the valley. The 17th-century Laclède castle and the Saint-Michel church are two major elements of the local heritage. The 12th-century Orcun Chapel and the restored old mills add historical charm to the village.
Accous : Accous combines heritage and nature. The village is home to the Church of Saint-Martin, parts of which date back to the 14th century, as well as several small Romanesque chapels scattered throughout the area. The Pic de Bergon and the surrounding mountains offer exceptional panoramic views and serve as a starting point for numerous hikes, mountain bike rides, and paragliding flights.
Borce : Borce is known for its connection to the Way of St. James and is the last stop on the Via Tolosana before crossing the Somport Pass. The Church of Saint-Michel houses an old holy water font in the shape of a pilgrim's shell, and the Borce Wildlife Park offers the opportunity to observe mountain wildlife in its natural habitat.
Lescun : Located at an altitude of approximately 900 meters, Lescun is famous for its Cirque de Lescun, a natural amphitheater of limestone peaks, including the Aiguilles d'Ansabère. It is an iconic spot for hiking and climbing, with routes leading to Lac de Lhurs or the Plateau de Sanchèse, perfect for picnics with a view.
Cette : Cette-Eygun, comprised of two traditional hamlets, boasts a remarkable rural heritage and mountain scenery. The Romanesque church of Saint-Pierre in Cette (12th century) preserves ancient frescoes and an 18th-century altarpiece, listed as a historical monument. The surrounding area offers hiking trails with magnificent panoramic views of the high mountains and alpine pastures.
Aydius : Aydius is a typical pastoral village, nestled in a mountain cirque. Its streets and bordes (old farmhouses) offer views of the Gave d'Aydius river and the natural waterfalls of the valley. Rural history is still visible in the village's architecture and layout, reflecting traditional pastoralism.
Each village has its own unique charm, perfect for discovering local culture and meeting friendly locals.
Sports and nature activities
The Aspe Valley is a true playground for nature and mountain enthusiasts. It offers a wide range of activities to stay active while enjoying exceptional scenery:
Hiking and trekking : trails suitable for all levels, from easy family walks to more challenging climbs to the summits. The routes allow you to discover waterfalls, mountain lakes and breathtaking panoramas, such as the Cirque de Lescun or the ridges around Accous.
Mountain biking and cycling : a network of varied trails crosses forests and valleys. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, you can explore steep paths or enjoy gentler rides, all while admiring the views of the mountains and typical villages.
Rafting and kayaking:The valley's rivers offer routes suitable for beginners as well as more experienced paddlers. A fun and sporty way to discover the area while cooling off in the summer.
Horse riding: to see the valley from another angle, horseback riding excursions are offered on picturesque trails, through forests, meadows and small villages, allowing you to get closer to the local wildlife.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing: in winter, the valley transforms into a white paradise. The cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing paths allow you to explore the snow-covered mountains gently or intensely, while enjoying the peace and quiet and the fresh mountain air.
Paragliding: For those seeking a unique experience, paragliding offers spectacular views of mountain peaks, rivers, and villages from the sky. Tandem flights led by professionals allow you to enjoy this experience in complete safety.
Wildlife and plant observation:The valley is rich in biodiversity. Marmots, golden eagles, vultures, and rare flowers punctuate your walks, offering an immersive experience in the Pyrenean countryside. Certain protected areas also allow for guided exploration of alpine flora and mountain landscapes.
Rock climbing and via ferrata: for the more adventurous, accessible rock faces in Lescun or around the Ansabère needles offer safe routes adapted to all levels.
Photography and nature hiking: the valley is an ideal place to capture breathtaking landscapes, observe birds or be amazed by the play of light on the mountains.
This diversity of activities allows you to create a tailor-made stay, active or more contemplative, as a couple or as a family, and to fully enjoy the natural and sporting riches of the valley throughout the year.
Tourist attractions in the valley
To enrich your stay, the Aspe Valley offers several remarkable sites blending history, nature, and culture. Here are the must-see places to visit:
Fort du Portalet
Fort du Portalet is a 19th-century fortification built against a cliff overlooking the Gave d'Aspe river to protect the road to the Somport Pass. It faces the famous Chemin de la Mâture (Masting Path), a historic trail carved into the rock to transport timber for shipbuilding. During the Second World War, the fort served as a political prison for figures such as Léon Blum, Édouard Daladier, and Paul Reynaud, making it a place steeped in history. Now a listed historical monument, it can be visited with guided tours that allow visitors to explore its galleries, bastions, and panoramic terrace overlooking the valley.
Parc'Ours – Animal Refuge in Borce
Just a short walk from the medieval village of Borce, Parc'Ours is an animal park and educational sanctuary where visitors can discover Pyrenean wildlife in a natural setting. The park offers a multi-hectare trail where you can observe local species such as Pyrenean chamois, marmots, birds of prey, and even the iconic brown bear, all in a respectful environment. Educational activities, information panels, and opportunities to interact with the animal keepers make the visit enriching for all ages, ideal for a family outing.
Somport Pyrenees Area
Located at the Somport Pass at an altitude of approximately 1,650 m, the Somport area is a place for mountain activities in all seasons. In winter, it is particularly appreciated for its cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing routes, suitable for all levels. In summer, easy hiking trails, plateaus, and woodlands offer opportunities for walks in nature and to admire the sweeping panoramas of the Pyrenean peaks. On-site, there is also a wellness area with a sauna and jacuzzi, as well as a mountain restaurant where you can enjoy a relaxing moment after your hike.
Notre-Dame de Sarrance Monastery
The Monastery of Sarrance is a spiritual and historical site located along the Arles Way, one of the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. Nestled in a peaceful mountain setting, this monastery is an ancient Marian shrine, offering a space for rest, renewal, and contemplation. Its cloister, Baroque church, and the warm welcome of the community make it an interesting stop, especially for those who appreciate history and the tranquility of this type of site.
Tips for a successful stay
To fully enjoy your stay, here are some practical recommendations:
- Come all year round: adapt your clothing and equipment according to the season to enjoy the different activities on offer.
- Book restaurants in advance: in summer, establishments fill up quickly, and in winter, some close. Booking guarantees a pleasant experience.
- Check opening hours: particularly useful for Spanish visitors, some shops and tourist sites may have different opening hours.
- Bring appropriate footwear: for hiking, snowshoeing or horseback riding.
- Bring water and snacks to stay energized during outdoor activities. If your accommodation offers this service, as is the case at Le Mandragot, consider ordering a picnic basket.
- Check the local weather: In the mountains, the weather can change rapidly and it is important to stay informed.
Why choose the Aspe Valley for your next getaway?
With its unspoiled nature, authentic villages, and diverse activities, the Aspe Valley appeals to anyone looking to combine sport, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery. Whether for a romantic weekend or a family adventure, this Pyrenean valley is a must-see destination for an unforgettable stay.