What are the activities to do in the Pyrenees ?

Authentic, unique, majestic, grandiose, breathtaking... So many adjectives to describe the Pyrenees, and yet none equal to their beauty! Unequalled, exceptional and out of the ordinary, the Pyrenees, from the top of their 3404 metres, seem to touch the sky. Where the blue of the sky meets the snowy peaks of our beloved mountains, time stands still and the eyes of visitors shine with wonder. The Pyrenees promise you a total change of scenery which, for a moment, disconnects you from reality. Would you like to experience this enchanted interlude? Follow the guide to find out which activities are essential in the Pyrenees!

Reconnecting with nature

Surrounded by thorny forests, the Pyrenees rise majestically above the green plains crossed by small streams that meander between the picturesque villages and rocky chasms. A real postcard setting, the Pays de Nay offers a total immersion in nature, in the heart of a preserved and authentic territory. And what better way to reconnect than to meet with yourself? The Pyrenees, whether in Béarn, the Basque Country, Ariège or the Cathar country, are home to some unmissable places that you absolutely must visit! The Cirque de Gavarnie, the Néouvielle Nature Reserve, the Pics du Midi, Mont Canigou, the Pont d'Espagne... are all places to discover. To experience this nature break in the heart of a unique environment, we advise you to venture out on foot. There is nothing like hiking as an activity to penetrate this green setting of the Pyrenees. At the bend in the paths, you will enjoy a unique panorama of the whole region!

Visit the picturesque Pyrenean villages

Rich in a unique heritage, the Pyrenees tell stories full of passion, culture and tradition. If you are looking for authentic sites, you couldn't be better off than in the Pays de Nay! In a beautiful simplicity without artifice, the Pyrenean villages welcome you for a total change of scenery. Carved out of stone and shaped by time, they stand out between the dense forests of the Pyrenees. For a moment of peace and quiet, set off to discover the region's cosy villages.

Discovering the history of a place

Visiting a place also means learning about its traditions, customs and skills. Understanding the history of a site allows you to retrace the path taken between yesterday and today. This gives you a better understanding of the changes, developments and upheavals that have taken place over the years. If you are a history lover, the Pays de Nay offers many activities related to Pyrenean traditions. The Béret Museum highlights the manufacture of this emblematic headgear, while the Sonnailles Daban showcases a unique, almost extinct, skill in working sheet metal to make bells. You can also dive into the past by exploring the Caves of Betharram, discovered over 200 years ago. Don't miss the Maison Carrée - Musée de l'Industrie either!

Outdoor activities in the Pyrenees

The exceptional setting of the Pyrenees is inevitably conducive to outdoor activities. A real playground for sports enthusiasts, the Pyrenees promise a good dose of adrenaline. If you prefer peace and quiet, there are also comforting outdoor activities accessible to all. The Asson zoo, for example, is a great outing that will delight young and old alike. 

Celebrating local products

It would be a mistake to visit the Pyrenees without enjoying its delicious gastronomy. How can you discover all the riches of the Pyrenean heritage without tasting the dishes that are the pride of the locals! In the cool of the day or at the end of the day, take the time to stroll in front of the stalls of the region's small producers. The markets are the perfect place to work up an appetite and are home to the best recipes in the country. Local specialities such as garbure, spit-roasted cake, confits or Madiran will undoubtedly make your mouth water! The richness of the Pays de Nay's terroir has been proven and should be enjoyed without moderation!