At the gateway to the mountains, the Val d'Adour country welcomes you in a verdant setting where the river dictates a peaceful rhythm. Between the bastide of Rabastens-de-Bigorre, the medieval heritage of Maubourguet and the peaceful surroundings of Bours, this first stop offers a gentle panorama of the Pyrenees mountain range taking shape on the horizon.

To discover:

• The Keep of Bours and its 14th-century manor house: Visit this remarkably preserved manorial residence, a unique witness to the region's medieval timber and stone architecture. (1h30)

• Saint-Martin Church in Maubourguet: Admire the Romanesque sculptures and the serene atmosphere of this major building located on the Way of St. James.

• The Royal Bastide and canals of Rabastens-de-Bigorre: Stroll along the grid-patterned alleyways and waterways that run through this town steeped in history.

Tarbais AOP & Haricot de Bigorre: Let yourself be tempted by a traditional Bigorre garbure stew, simmered with the famous Tarbais AOP bean and its ultra-melting skin, served with a slice of pan-fried pork belly.

As you approach the high peaks, Tournay and Bagnères-de-Bigorre form an exceptional spa and countryside stopover. From the wooded rolling hills of the Arros to the majestic spa town nestled at the foot of the Pic du Midi, this stage combines well-being, generous nature and Belle Époque charm all year round.

To discover:

• The Vallon du Salut and the Allées de Coustous: Treat yourself to a shaded and soothing walk in the heart of the historic cradle of the spa town of Bagnères-de-Bigorre.

• Escaladieu Abbey and Mauvezin Castle: A few minutes from Tournay, explore this preserved Cistercian abbey nestled in a lush green setting at the foot of the medieval fortress (2h30).

• The Thermal Baths and historic centre: Stroll through the alleyways lined with marble facades before enjoying a relaxing break in the heart of the town.

Tourte des Pyrénées & Gâteau à la broche: Pay tribute to local indulgence by tasting a slice of Tourte des Pyrénées with wild blueberries or the spectacular Gâteau à la broche, baked over a wood fire with its characteristic golden spikes.

Let yourself be charmed by the magic of the Aure and Louron valleys, an enchanting territory where mountain traditions flourish amid preserved landscapes. From the picturesque town of Arreau to the gates of Spain in Aragnouet, passing by Lake Loudenvielle and the alleyways of Saint-Lary-Soulan and Vielle-Aure, this stopover offers total immersion in the soul of the Pyrenees. Here, nature is contemplated and fully experienced, along white waters and majestic peaks.

To discover:

• The Historic Centre of Arreau and the Maison des Lys: Observe the confluence of the two Nestes rivers and stroll through the medieval town of Arreau, home to magnificent half-timbered houses with slate roofs.

• Lake Loudenvielle and its landscaped banks: Treat yourself to a bucolic walk around the lake offering a grandiose panorama over the Louron valley, ideal for a serene break by the water's edge.

• The Vielle-Aure Mine and pastoral heritage: Explore the authentic town of Vielle-Aure, a precious witness to the region's former mining and pastoral traditions.

• The National Park House in Saint-Lary-Soulan:Stroll through the lively resort-village of Saint-Lary-Soulan and discover the secrets of Pyrenean flora and fauna at the heart of its museum space.

• The Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption du Plan Chapel in Aragnouet: Admire this Romanesque art jewel, a former Templar hospice located at the foot of the vast wild spaces of Aragnouet.

Porc Noir de Bigorre AOP: Let yourself be tempted by a few slices of Porc Noir de Bigorre AOP ham, an exceptional cured meat with subtle nutty notes.

At the crossroads of the mythical Pyrenean pass roads, Luz-Saint-Sauveur and Pierrefitte-Nestalas are the starting point towards the most dizzying panoramas. Between the Napoléon Bridge suspended above the gorges and the proximity of the great glacial cirques, this stopover immerses you in monumental nature with timeless charm.

To discover:

• The Fortified Church of Saint-André in Luz: Admire this remarkable 12th-century building surrounded by ramparts, witness to the history of the Knights Hospitaller of Saint John of Jerusalem.

• The Gaves Greenway: Walk or cycle along this former converted railway line connecting Pierrefitte-Nestalas in a gentle and safe atmosphere (2h00).

• The Napoléon Bridge and Luz Gorges: Take in the spectacular height of this majestic engineering structure crossing the steep-sided valley.

Agneau de Barèges-Gavarnie AOC & Miel de Montagne: Taste the tender and flavourful meat of Barèges-Gavarnie AOC Lamb, raised in high-altitude summer pastures, before finishing with a touch of wild flower honey harvested in the valleys.

Nestled at the end of the peaceful Val d'Azun, the village of Arrens-Marsous embodies the authentic and preserved mountain. Bordered by the Pyrenees National Park, this haven of peace surrounded by pastures and legendary passes is the ideal stop to breathe pure air and observe wildlife in all serenity.

To discover:

• Lake Tech and the landscapes of Val d'Azun: Discover this wild body of water framed by peaks, perfect for a peaceful break by the water's edge.

• Pyrenees National Park House: Learn more about the preserved mountain flora and fauna, from marmots to royal birds of prey.

• Notre-Dame de Pouey Laün Chapel: Visit this remarkable Baroque sanctuary nicknamed the "Golden", a true jewel of sacred art nestled in the heart of the valley.

Tomme du Val d'Azun & Confit de Canard: Taste the famous cow and ewe milk Tomme from the Val d'Azun, a pressed cheese with a fruity flavour, ideally served with a good duck confit from the South-West gently browning in the pan.

To conclude this great journey, Agos-Vidalos and Lourdes combine the serenity of the Gaves valley with the grandeur of a world spiritual and historic city. Between the towers of the fortified castle overlooking the town and the secret paths of the Pibeste Reserve, this final stage holds unforgettable emotions in store.

To discover:

• The Fortified Castle and Pyrenean Museum of Lourdes: Visit this impregnable thousand-year-old fortress and enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the town and mountains (2h00).

• The Massif du Pibeste-Aoulhet Nature Reserve: From Agos-Vidalos, take the trails of the region's largest nature reserve, a sanctuary for eagles and mouflons (2h30).

• The Pic du Jer and its centennial funicular: Board the vintage wooden carriage to ascend to the summit and contemplate the Gaves valley (1h30).

Cachoous de Lurdos & Madiran: End your stay on a sweet note with Cachoous de Lurdos, delicious small artisanal flavoured sweets, accompanied in moderation by a glass of full-bodied Madiran red wine.