Snowshoeing in the Pyrenees

Snowshoe trekking is an accessible and immersive winter activity: walking in the snow, exploring snow-covered landscapes, and discovering breathtaking panoramas in the heart of the Ossau Valley, in the Pyrénées Atlantiques (64), go on a snowshoe trek in Gourette, just 2 hours from the Basque coast and 45 minutes from Pau!

Snow-capped peaks, pine forests and wide open spaces: these are just some of the wonders we'll discover together on our snowshoe treks in the Pyrenees.

The crests of the Col d'Aubisque, the Gourette forest (outside the ski resort), the cirque d'Aneou at the foot of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau and the Pont de Camps plateau are just some of the magnificent routes we offer you to explore on snowshoes. Our outings are suitable for all levels, from beginners to full-day adventurers, so you can make the most of the beauty of winter in the mountains.

Snowshoe trekking in the Pyrenees

Our favourite snowshoeing playground is in the magnificent Ossau valley, accessible from Laruns and the ski resort of Gourette, just 40 km south of Pau, 2 hours from the Basque coast and less than 3 hours from Bordeaux and Toulouse.

The Ossau Valley is an exceptional place for snowshoe trekking in south-west France. Iconic sites such as the cirque d'Aneou, nestling in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, or the area around the ski resort of Gourette and the Col de l'Aubisque offer breathtaking scenery and total immersion in the wilderness. Wide expanses of snow, unique panoramas and pine forests offer varied and memorable experiences.

Our snowshoe trails: for all levels

Our experienced guides offer a range of routes to suit your level and interests. Whether you're a beginner, an occasional hiker or a mountain enthusiast, our outings will take you through a variety of landscapes, from forests to snow-capped peaks. Our walks include itineraries for everyone, from gentle beginners to more immersive routes to discover the mountains in depth.

Snowshoe trekking is for people who want to discover the winter mountains in a different way, away from the ski resorts and immersed in unspoilt natural landscapes. With itineraries accessible to all, snowshoeing requires no specific level of technique and is ideal for those who enjoy the great outdoors and discovering new things. On the programme: discovering winter flora and fauna, walking in fresh snow, exceptional panoramas and moments of relaxation in a natural setting.

Whether you're with family, friends, colleagues, a couple or even on your own, set off on a snowshoeing adventure to discover the beauty of the Ossau Valley. For those looking for an accessible, fun and rejuvenating winter activity, our snowshoe outings are the perfect solution.

For the best possible memories of this activity, we recommend a minimum age of 5 for outings. First steps on snowshoes and Building an IglooA minimum age of 8 is required for exit. Snowshoe Discovery and a minimum age of 12 for exit in Snowshoeing Day. If your children are under 5, we invite you to contact us and together we can create a suitable activity. Don't forget that it's really important for our little ones to discover an activity for the first time, to have a good time and to want to try it again.

Definition of snowshoe trekking

Snowshoe trekking is a winter mountain activity that allows you to explore snow-covered landscapes in complete safety. It involves walking on the snow with snowshoes attached to your boots, making it easier to progress through deep snow. Along the way, you'll pass through snow-covered forests, reach panoramic ridges and discover the mountain wilderness under a blanket of white.

In the Ossau valley, in the Pyrenees, there are a variety of snowshoe routes to suit all levels, from beginner to seasoned adventurer. Equipped with snowshoes, walking poles, waterproof footwear and warm clothing, participants set off to discover the exceptional landscapes of the Pyrenees. Depending on the route, the walks take in the crests of the Col d'Aubisque, the Gourette forest, the Cirque d'Aneou and even the Spanish Pyrenees, offering breathtaking views.

An activity for everyone! Whether you're with family, friends, for an EVG/EVJF, with colleagues or on your own, snowshoe trekking is an accessible and friendly activity, ideal for enjoying nature in winter. Don't forget to book your snowshoe outing in the Pyrenees for an authentic experience!

The origins of snowshoe trekking

Snowshoes have been used for thousands of years by people in northern regions, who developed them to get around more easily in the snow. The first snowshoes were made of wood and leather, designed to avoid sinking into deep snow and enable hunters and explorers to cover long distances.

It wasn't until the 20th century that snowshoeing evolved into a mountain leisure activity. Today, with modern materials like aluminium and resistant polymers, snowshoes are light and easy to handle, offering comfort and safety. They offer an immersive and environmentally-friendly way to discover the winter mountains, while respecting the fragile ecosystems of the winter season.