The Pic du Midi d'Ossau

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The Pic du Midi d'Ossau (2,884 metres), the emblem of the Ossau Valley!
  • ete-picdossau1-garderes-7715
Rare are the mountains that maintain a haughty solitude, their mere presence defining an entire landscape. Such is the case with the Pic du Midi d'Ossau, or Jean-Pierre.

Located in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, it stands out as the emblem of the Ossau Valley and, more broadly, of Béarn.
Rising to 2,884 metres, this ancient volcano is a must-see for hiking and climbing enthusiasts. 
  • Summer pasture with a cow at the Ayous lakes in front of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau - © Adrien Basse-Cathalinat - Pays-de-Bearn

Hiking around Ossau
 

The Ayous Lakes hike

The unmissable Ayous Lakes hike offers every hiker an exceptional view of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau.
This 5-hour loop is a 14 km hike that winds its way through the peaks, taking in varied landscapes from forests to crystal-clear lakes.
 
The Ayous Lakes
 
  • Sunrise on the Ayous Lakes hike - © aurelien-brusini-aurelienbrusini-com

The Tour de l'Ossau hike

For experienced hikers and sports enthusiasts, the Tour de l'Ossau is one of the most famous hikes in the Ossau Valley: if you only do one hike in the Pyrenees National Park, this should be it!
Over 15 km and 1,200 m of elevation gain, you will see the Ossau from all angles and cross beautiful wild valleys where the most emblematic wildlife of the Pyrenees takes refuge.
 
The Tour de l'Ossau
 
  • Hiking in the Ossau massif with a child - © CDT64-P.Gaillard

Climbing this giant


Every summer, numerous climbing and mountaineering enthusiasts set out from the Pombie refuge to tackle this legendary peak.
The normal route is the easiest way to reach the summit.
This hike-climb requires good preparation and a good level of fitness, given its length and elevation gain (one day and an elevation gain of over 1,000 metres).
The alternation of three 20-metre chimneys (for safety, take a 50-metre rope to climb them and a helmet for the entire ascent) and easy walking passages adds a fun element to this climb.
However, this summit should not be underestimated and requires a certain amount of experience... and wisdom to know when to turn back if the weather is not favourable.

Please note! Accompaniment by a professional is strongly recommended, as well as a helmet and a safety rope.

At the summit, a reward awaits you: a breathtaking 360° view!
 
Find a guide
 
  • Ascent of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau - © Adrien Basse-Cathalinat - Pays-de-Bearn

Please note!


The Pic du Midi d'Ossau is located in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park and is therefore subject to its regulations.