Bivouac Trek – On the Road to Spain 🥾⛺

Three days of adventure across wild mountain passes, panoramic bivouac spots, and the heart-shaped Montagnon Lake in the heart of the Ossau Valley 🌄

This trip follows an original route along the historic paths leading toward Spain, starting from the villages of Bielle and Bilhères. After an ascent from the Bénou plateau to our first bivouac, you will enjoy exceptional views over the main ridge peaks. The journey then continues between the Aspe and Ossau valleys, crossing several mountain passes along the way.

A highlight of the trek is the passage by Lake Montagnon, famous for its distinctive heart shape—an astonishing and beautiful natural site. Finally, we descend into the valley through the magical Bitet forest, with its ancient trees and moss-covered rocks, creating a mystical atmosphere. Over 3 days and 2 nights, rediscover the Ossau Valley far from the crowds, following the historic trails of the Crestadous.

📅 Departure dates: July 21–23, 2026 and August 4–6, 2026
Not available on these dates? No worries—contact us and we’ll find another departure for your adventure ⛰️✨

🏔️ Day 1: From the Bénou Plateau to Montagnon de Bielle Peak ⛺

From the Bénou plateau, the day is a continuous ascent toward the first 2,000-meter peaks north of the range. Following old, little-used paths, we cross moorlands and summer pastures to reach the Aran Pass. We then continue up to the Lansatté Pass, at the foot of Mailh Massibé, where we set up our first bivouac nearby.
Elevation gain: +1000 m / -100 m – Distance: 8 km – Night in bivouac

🌿 Day 2: From Montagnon to Arrioutort Pass 🌄

After breaking camp, we descend off-trail into a very mineral landscape before joining a pastoral track that sets the rhythm of the day. We cross a series of passes between the Aspe and Ossau valleys, with breathtaking viewpoints, vast wild valleys, and deserted landscapes. The day ends near the Arrioutort Pass, where we may enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Aspe Valley—weather permitting!
Elevation gain: +800 m / -800 m – Distance: 10 km – Night in bivouac

🥾 Day 3: The Bitet Valley 🌲

We quickly reach the famous Montagnon Lake, the only truly busy spot on our itinerary (a small price for social media fame!). After a well-deserved break by the lake, we continue along a balcony trail to the Iseye Pass before descending gently into the Bitet valley, its gorges, and its ancient forest full of wonders.
Elevation gain: +500 m / -1400 m – Distance: 13 km

⛺ Bivouac & Meals

Nights are spent in tents during bivouac. Camps are set up with the participation of the whole group. Personal equipment is carried and installed by each participant. The lightweight trekking tents can accommodate 1 to 3 people.

The trip is fully self-sufficient. Group food is distributed by the guide before departure so that everyone contributes to carrying supplies. Meals are prepared by the guide with the help of participants. Washing up of personal and shared equipment is organized by the group. Fresh products are used at the beginning of the trek, while freeze-dried meals are favored toward the end.

🥾 Level

Good physical condition required (regular physical activity practice recommended). Up to 1000 m of elevation gain per day, 6–7 hours of walking. Terrain includes tracks, paths, and trails, with some off-trail sections. Carrying a loaded backpack is essential for this itinerant trek.

Comfort level: sleeping in tents on ground mats. Washing takes place in streams near bivouac sites. No toilets along the route—wild nature conditions apply.