The Vallée d'Ossau

(a hidden gem)

The Vallee d’Ossau is in the Béarn region of southwest France, and with its wide range of activities, culture, and history, it offers something for everyone.

Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from activities such as skiing, hiking, climbing, cycling, canyoning, canoing, and fishing.

For the foodies, the ‘route de fromage' runs through the valley, offering many varieties of Ossau-Iraty cheese which are nicely complemented with the local wines from the Jurançon and Madiran vineyards.

If you like charming villages, there are plenty to visit in and around the area. You can take a ride on the highest train in Europe that offers breathtaking views.

Beach goers can reach Biarritz and the Atlantic coast in under 2 hours, and for a bit of cultural diversity, Spain is just 45 minutes south.

The region is also rich in culture and history with regular events that celebrate local traditions such as the transhumance in July when the sheep and other animals make their annual pilgrimage to the high mountains to spend the summer. Many of the villages have their local 'fetes' and specialty markets over the summer and the annual cheese festival takes place in October.