MTB & Gravel in the French Pyrenees

Oct 20, 2022

5 min read

The seasons change as years go by, and I still feel as excited as a new beginner. I am continually learning and inspired by the people we meet along the way.

Many have been navigating these mountains for most of their lives, spanning all age groups. I aspire to be as strong as they are someday. For mountain biking, our top picks are the Bike Park d'Artouste and Aste-Beon, both easily reachable from Laruns.

Let's talk about Artouste mountain biking first; it's one of our favourite places on this planet—Incredible views with endless opportunities for everyone who has an affinity for the great outdoors.

Discovering Artouste: A Mountain Biker's Paradise

Artouste, nestled in the French Pyrenees, offers mountain biking enthusiasts a breathtaking experience with trails for all skill levels. Whether you're seeking challenging ascents or scenic routes, Artouste has it all.

Stunning Scenic Views

Artouste boasts spectacular views with lush valleys, towering peaks, and clear lakes. The trails offer ever-changing landscapes, perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

Trail Variety for Every Skill Level

Artouste features a vast network of trails, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging downhill runs. The well-maintained trails provide a safe, diverse experience for all riders.

A Community of Outdoor Enthusiasts

Artouste is home to a vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors often meet fellow bikers and nature lovers, enhancing the experience with camaraderie and shared stories.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Destination

Artouste is a must-visit for mountain biking, offering incredible views, diverse trails, and a welcoming community. It's the perfect place for adventure, relaxation, and connecting with like-minded individuals.

Artouste: 6 routes There is one green route, 8 km long, ideal for beginners to learn and get comfortable. There are two blue routes with smoother tracks located in the middle of the forest. One of these blue routes offers a great, long descent with a single track through the undergrowth. Additionally, there are two red and black routes designed for experts and downhill championships. A day pass, costing 15 euros, is required, granting unlimited trips back up to 2,100m. Enjoy panoramic views of the French Pyrenees and a restaurant.

We often take a trip on the Little Train d' Artouste climbing the peaks up to 2,000m. The train is accessible from the restaurant and is home to the highest railway in Europe.

Beautiful aqua blue lakes. Rocky cliffs, Arstoute Lake, sheep as they graze in the high pastures and many cute and inquisitive marmots. The view in these photographs is incredible, but witnessing it first-hand is a whole new experience.

Gravel and MTB riding - Port de Castet

Port de Castet: Nestled between Béarn and the Basque Country, the Pyrenees offer a stunning backdrop with a variety of biking trails for all experience levels, from family-friendly walks to challenging routes for seasoned adventurers. This region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with diverse landscapes revealing new vistas at every turn.

Mountain biking on the Col de Marie Blanque and the Rey in the Ossau Valley is both exhilarating and demanding, requiring physical endurance and mental strength. The rugged terrain features steep ascents and rocky paths, making a high-quality mountain bike essential, especially for adventurous riders like Tom, who enjoys exploring during the early evening hours.

For safety, it's crucial to carry a Garmin inReach device for two-way communication and GPS tracking in remote areas. The vastness of the Ossau Valley can be isolating, so reliable communication is vital.

While biking, be cautious of pastoral animals that roam freely, as they may not react well to cyclists. Approach these encounters with respect to ensure safety.

Selecting a suitable mountain bike is crucial, with cross-country or all-mountain bikes recommended. Ensure your bike is well-maintained, checking brakes, tyre pressure, and gears.

Safety equipment is vital, including the Garmin inReach for emergencies and protective gear like helmets and pads to minimise injury risks.

Adequate preparation, respect for nature, and awareness of local conditions ensure a safer journey through this breathtaking landscape. The Ossau Valley offers unforgettable adventures with its views and trails.

When the weather is beautiful, which is often the case in this picturesque region, we have the chance to explore and rediscover the extraordinary and unexpected natural beauty that flourishes in the most secluded hollows of the mountains. The vibrant flora and fauna thrive in these untouched areas, creating a rich tapestry of life that captivates the senses. From the delicate wildflowers that bloom in the spring to the majestic peaks that rise dramatically against the sky, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.

As we venture along the trails, we may encounter crystal-clear streams that wind their way through the valleys, providing a soothing soundtrack to our journey. The air is crisp and invigorating, filled with the scents of pine and earth, making each breath a refreshing experience. Wildlife is abundant here, and with a bit of patience and luck, one might spot a soaring eagle or a playful chamois darting across the rocky slopes.

In addition to the natural beauty, the cultural richness of the region adds another layer to the experience. The Pyrenees are steeped in history, with charming villages that reflect the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the local inhabitants. As we hike or bike through these trails, we may come across ancient stone churches, rustic farmhouses, and local artisans showcasing their crafts, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture that thrives in harmony with nature.

Ultimately, the Port de Castet area, positioned between Béarn and the Basque Country, serves as a gateway to an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Pyrenees. Whether one seeks solitude in nature, a thrilling outdoor challenge, or a cultural journey, the trails of this remarkable region promise to deliver an enriching experience that lingers long after the journey has ended.

Mountain biking in the stunning Port de Castet area of the Ossau valley offers remarkable beauty and diverse terrain. The landscape features expansive pastoral spaces and dense forests, perfect for both beginners and experienced riders. The 31-kilometre loop includes a regular slope with a total elevation gain and loss of 1,230 meters, reaching a maximum elevation of 1,523 meters for breathtaking views. The varied terrain enhances the biking experience and allows appreciation of the area's rich biodiversity, with grazing livestock and diverse wildlife. This adventure combines physical challenge with the serenity of nature, making it ideal for avid bikers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Once on the trailhead, a long drop awaits with an open starting section with typical alpine trails, exposed and technical. To get to the top, starting at 1,000 m, is another 600 m, but the views and the landscape are so astonishing that you quickly forget about it. Then things get faster and looser inside the forest, with high-speed trails covered in leaves and hero dirt if you are lucky to catch it right after the rain.

How to do it yourself

Travel: Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport to the Vallée d'Ossau is about a 58-minute drive from the airport. Pau-Pyrénées Airport to the Vallée d'Ossau is about a 42-minute drive, so renting a car is recommended, but leave the car parked once you arrive. The villages are lovely to explore on foot, and the mountains are a mere 15km bike ride away.

Your stay will be one that you will remember for a long time. The proprietors are fellow cyclists with incredible local produce, beautiful locations, accommodation with views, and expert local knowledge.

L'etable d'Ossau

1 Chem. d"Ossau

64260

Buzy

Bike Shop: Localski Laruns