Authentic Val d'Azun: equestrian adventure in the heart of the Pyrenees

After preparing your companions for the adventure, you set off from the equestrian farm along the wooded paths. Gradually, you gain altitude and the landscapes unfold before you. You cross the Couraduques pass and then the Berbeilheit pass , where the atmosphere becomes wilder and more pastoral with herds grazing in the high pastures. You continue on to the magnificent Cirque du Litor , a natural border between the Hautes-Pyrénées and the Val d'Azun . You spend the night beneath the imposing cliffs of the Gabizos .

You leave the Cirque du Litor via the magnificent Col de Saucède on the GR10 . The atmosphere changes as you approach Arrens-Marsous : you follow narrow paths bordered by dry stone walls and hazelnut groves. Passing through the Col des Bordères , you reach the village of Estaing and discover charming restored outlying barns. The stage continues along the Gave de Labat de Bun river to reach Lake Estaing , nestled in a peaceful mountain setting.

A magnificent mountain stage awaits you with a challenging climb. Still on the GR10 , you begin the ascent of the Col d'Ilhéou with 1100m of elevation gain . The climb is superb, framed by the Pic du Maleshores (2703m) and the Grand Barbat (2813m) which dominate to the south. The picnic break offers the opportunity to discover Lac du Barbat on foot (an additional 100m of elevation gain ) for those who would like an alternative to a nap. From the pass, new landscapes unfold, with a breathtaking view of the Cauterets valleys and their majestic mountains. You descend on foot, losing approximately 400m of elevation, to the bivouac site, located on the edge of the national park. You will likely see shepherds working with their dogs and flocks of goats and sheep.

In the evening, you will have dinner at the Ilhéou refuge , located a 10-minute walk away , on the edge of the magnificent Ilhéou lake , before returning to your tents set up below.

The day begins with a magnificent sunrise from the bivouac. You then descend along a track to the foothills of Cauterets , where the trail takes on a wilder character. A short climb of 100m of elevation gain leads you to the Col de Contente , at the foot of the Pic du Cabaliros .

By leaving early, a picnic at the summit allows you to fully enjoy the view. Facing south, the panorama of the Pyrenees is exceptional, with a remarkable view of the Vignemale (3298m), the highest French peak in the Pyrenees.

The stage ends with a 400m descent to reach the bivouac. Located due west, the site offers a perfect spot to admire a majestic sunset.

This day is all about the descent. You'll first cross the Cabaliros summer pastures , where you might spot Adeline's horses grazing. Gradually, the paths open up and become wooded before reaching the valley. You'll pass through a series of small villages, marking the gradual return to civilization.

A final climb leads you to the Bernicaze farm . This gentle stage is perfect for leaving the mountains in peace and quiet.

You share a final meal and a convivial evening in a guest room in the village.

A gentle awakening at Monique's , a chance to savor the village atmosphere a little longer. Then comes the time to turn towards new horizons, heads full of memories of this adventure!