The Haut Bearn region is located in the Pyrenees mountains, the spectacular scenery that forms the natural border between France and Spain. There are few large towns in this part of France, which is mainly populated by mountain villages and ruined medieval fortresses, but the natural scenery more than makes up for the lack of civilisation! Some of the most breathtaking views in the whole country can be found in the Pyrenees, with many of the best in the Haut Bearn region itself.
The best way to explore the Haut Bearn region is undoubtedly on foot, or perhaps on a mountain bike, as many of the best views and most unspoilt scenery is off the beaten track. Within the Parc National de Pyrenees there are dozens of walking trails, all of differing distances and difficulties, with maps and advice available from the tourist office within the park. The most popular, and probably the most spectacular, are the trails through the Aspe and Ossau valleys, while those who are more experience climbers might prefer the more difficult trail through the Lescun valley.
Also within the Parc National de Pyrenees is the Falais aux Vetours near the town of Aste-Beon. This is a protected site for wild birds such as kites, vultures and kestrels that live in these mountains. Not only are there pleasant walk around the area, but you can also watch live video of nesting birds and learn about the project to save these beautiful birds of prey.
However, not everyone is keen on hiking their way through the Pyrenees. Luckily, there are other ways to enjoy the scenery without pulling on your hiking boots or if you have small children who can't manage the climb. Le Petit Train d'Artouste runs on a single gauge railway up to a height of 2,000 metres, one of the highest tourist trains in the world. Not only can you enjoy great views throughout the journey but once you reach the top you can see for miles over the Haut Bearn region. Go even higher with the cable car up to the Pic du Midi observatory, at nearly 3,000 metres, which goes from the foot of the Col du Tourmalet, made famous by the Tour de France cycle race. If you want to recreate that famous contest, you can take your own bicycles up in the cable car and try out the hair-raising descent for yourself!
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Haut Bearn? Then below is a selection of gites in Haut Bearn and villas in Haut Bearn that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
