Pic du Midi d'Ossau: The Pyrenean Icon
Discover the majestic Pic du Midi d'Ossau in the French Pyrenees: a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers, offering stunning landscapes and unforgettable adventures.
The Pic du Midi d'Ossau, a majestic mountain in the French Pyrenees, stands as a natural border landmark and a beacon for hikers and climbers. Rising to 2,884 meters, its distinctive tooth-like silhouette dominates the Ossau Valley, captivating visitors with its rugged beauty. Known locally as 'Jean-Pierre,' this ancient volcano offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails ranging from leisurely lakeside walks to challenging multi-day treks. The area is rich in alpine lakes, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning panoramic views, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Pyrenean experience. Whether you're drawn to its challenging climbing routes or the serene beauty of its surrounding landscapes, the Pic du Midi d'Ossau promises an unforgettable adventure.
A brief summary to Pic du Midi d'Ossau
- Laruns, FR
Local tips
- Book accommodations and mountain refuges in advance, especially during peak season (July and August), as they fill up quickly.
- Check the weather forecast before hiking, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. Be prepared for sudden shifts in temperature and precipitation.
- Pack layers of clothing, including waterproof and windproof gear, to adapt to varying weather conditions. Sturdy hiking boots are essential for navigating the rocky terrain.
- Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks, such as cereal bars and dried fruit, to stay hydrated and fueled during your hikes.
- Respect the environment by staying on marked trails, packing out all trash, and avoiding disturbing wildlife. The Pyrénées National Park is a protected area.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Laruns, the closest village, follow the D934 towards Spain (Col du Pourtalet). After approximately 10km, turn onto the D231, a narrow, winding mountain road that follows the Gave de Bious. Continue on the D231 until you reach Bious-Artigues, a popular starting point for hikes around the Pic du Midi d'Ossau. Parking is available at Bious-Artigues, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot.
-
Public Transport
During July and August, public transport is available from Pau to Bious-Artigues. Take bus 524 from Pau to Laruns, then transfer to bus 525, which runs twice daily from Laruns to Col de Pourtalet via Bious-Oumettes (the road at Bious Artigues). Check the bus timetables in advance as the schedule is limited. From the Bious-Oumettes stop, it's a short walk to the trailhead at Bious-Artigues.
-
Hiking
Many trails around the Pic du Midi d'Ossau start from Bious-Artigues. To reach the Refuge de Pombie, a popular base for climbing the mountain, follow the trail from the parking area at the end of the road. The hike to the refuge is approximately 4 km with a 480m elevation gain and takes around 4 hours. Be prepared for a moderate to strenuous hike with rocky terrain. Alternatively, from Col du Pourtalet, you can hike to Refuge de Pombie. The hike is approximately 12 km, with an ascent of 800m and a descent of 600m, taking around 5 hours.
Discover more about Pic du Midi d'Ossau
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Massif du Pic-du-Midi-d'Arrens
15.3 km
Explore the Massif du Pic-du-Midi-d'Arrens: A breathtaking mountain range perfect for hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching in the French Pyrenees.
Saqués
18.9 km
Discover the charming historical landmark of Saqués in Huesca, Spain, and immerse yourself in its breathtaking architecture and stunning landscapes.
Pic de Predouset
21.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Pic de Predouset, a hidden gem in the Pyrenees offering stunning views and serene hiking experiences in Arrens-Marsous.
Pic d'Ansabère
25.0 km
Explore the breathtaking views and diverse landscapes of Pic d'Ansabère, a majestic peak in the French Pyrenees perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Eglise Saint Saturnin d'Argelès-Gazost
32.1 km
Discover a 19th-century church in Argelès-Gazost with historical treasures and a story of faith and community spirit.
Porte d'Espagne
34.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Porte d'Espagne, a mountain pass in the French Pyrenees, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Miradores de Ordesa 4x4.Excursiones a P.N Ordesa y Monte Perdido. y Bujaruelo en 4×4
36.1 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures at Miradores de Ordesa in the heart of Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park.
ordesa.net
36.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ordesa National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Reserva de la Biosfera Ordesa Viñamala
36.2 km
Discover the breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Reserva de la Biosfera Ordesa Viñamala in the stunning Pyrenees region.
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park Visitor Centre
36.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park at the Visitor Centre, your gateway to adventure.
Ordesa Valley
37.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Ordesa Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees.
Lourdes Woods
39.6 km
Escape to the tranquility of Lourdes Woods: scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful retreat near the famous pilgrimage site.
Grotte du Loup
40.4 km
Discover the natural beauty of Grotte du Loup near Lourdes, a former tourist spot now known for climbing and serene landscapes.
Cascada de Arripas
40.5 km
Discover the breathtaking Cascada de Arripas, a stunning waterfall in the heart of Ordesa Valley, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cascada de la Cueva
40.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascada de la Cueva, a stunning waterfall in Torla-Ordesa, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Canyon du Soussouéou
6.7 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas of Canyon du Soussouéou in the heart of the Pyrénées, a hiker's paradise waiting to be discovered.
Astun
7.5 km
Discover the captivating beauty and thrilling adventures of Astun, a premier ski resort and hiking area nestled in the stunning Pyrenees mountains.
ARAMON Formigal
9.7 km
Discover ARAMON Formigal, where breathtaking slopes meet vibrant après-ski culture in the heart of the Pyrenees, perfect for all winter sports enthusiasts.
Le Somport
10.0 km
Discover the enchanting Le Somport, a premier ski resort in the Pyrenees, offering thrilling slopes and breathtaking alpine views for an unforgettable winter escape.
Fort Portalet
11.3 km
Explore a historic French fortress in the Pyrenees, once a military stronghold and prison for notable political figures.
Etablissement Thermal des Eaux-Chaudes
11.6 km
Experience the healing waters and serene ambiance of Etablissement Thermal des Eaux-Chaudes in the stunning Pyrenees – a perfect wellness retreat for tourists.
Ibon of Arnales
17.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Ibon of Arnales, a breathtaking alpine lake in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Ibones de Pecico
17.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Ibones de Pecico in Huesca, Spain - a serene nature preserve with stunning lakes and scenic hiking trails.
Ibones Azules
17.9 km
Discover the breathtaking Ibones Azules in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees, a serene hiking paradise with stunning blue lakes and majestic mountain views.
Pueyo de Jaca, Huesca
18.2 km
Explore the enchanting village of Pueyo de Jaca in the Pyrenees, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural heritage and outdoor adventures await.
Ibón de Piedrafita
18.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ibón de Piedrafita, an alpine lake perfect for hiking and serene outdoor escapes in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Ibones de Ordicuso
18.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Ibones de Ordicuso, where turquoise lakes meet majestic peaks in the heart of the Pyrenees, an essential stop for nature lovers.
Ibón de Bachimaña Alto
18.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ibón de Bachimala Alto, an alpine lake in Huesca, Spain, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Ibón de Bachimaña Bajo
18.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ibón de Bachimana Bajo, a serene alpine lake in the heart of the Pyrenees, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cascada de Bachimaña.
18.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascada de Bachimaña, a majestic waterfall in the heart of the Pyrenees, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Essential places to dine
Refugio de Lizara
18.9 km
Discover Refugio de Lizara: A charming mountain cabin offering exquisite local cuisine amidst breathtaking Pyrenean landscapes.
Asador Casa Diego
27.9 km
Discover the heart of Spanish grilling at Asador Casa Diego in Gavín – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Restaurante Canteré
28.8 km
Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Restaurante Canteré in Hecho - where tradition meets modernity in every dish.
Hôtel Restaurant Le Viscos · Saint-Savin
31.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and warm hospitality at Hôtel Restaurant Le Viscos in Saint-Savin - A culinary haven in the heart of France.
La Table d'Ayzi
32.1 km
Discover La Table d'Ayzi: A premier destination for authentic French cuisine in Argelès-Gazost.
RESTAURANT DES PETITS POIS SONT ROUGES
32.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine amidst the stunning backdrop of Argelès-Gazost at Restaurant des Petits Pois Sont Rouges.
Auberge Le Bouic
34.4 km
Discover authentic Southwestern French cuisine at Auberge Le Bouic, where tradition meets taste in Ayros-Arbouix.
Restaurante Bar Turieto
35.3 km
Discover Huesca's culinary treasure at Restaurante Bar Turieto - A grill paradise serving authentic flavors in a breathtaking setting.
Restaurante Pizzería El Taillón
35.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurante Pizzería El Taillón in Torla-Ordesa—where delicious pizzas meet breathtaking mountain views.
La Terraza Mondarruego
35.9 km
Discover exquisite grilled cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain scenery at La Terraza Mondarruego in Torla-Ordesa.
Restaurante Atalaya Torla
36.0 km
Discover exquisite grilled dishes at Restaurante Atalaya Torla, where local flavors meet stunning Pyrenean landscapes for an unforgettable dining experience.
Restaurante La Brecha
36.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Restaurante La Brecha in Torla-Ordesa – where local flavors meet breathtaking scenery.
A Borda Samper
36.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish flavors at A Borda Samper, your go-to tapas bar in Torla-Ordesa, Huesca.
Pizzeria Santa Elena
36.1 km
Discover Pizzeria Santa Elena in Torla-Ordesa for authentic Italian pizzas amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
El Duende
36.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at El Duende in Torla-Ordesa - where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alquiler de esquís en Formigal Boutique Nepal
10.1 km
Experience top-notch ski rentals and expert advice at Alquiler de esquís en Formigal Boutique Nepal, your gateway to winter adventures in the Pyrenees.
Multishop Candanchú La Tienda de Laura
10.5 km
Explore Multishop Candanchú La Tienda de Laura for unique gifts and local treasures in the stunning Pirineos region of Spain.
Acebo Productos Artesanos
18.6 km
Explore Acebo Productos Artesanos for unique handcrafted souvenirs that reflect the cultural heritage of Panticosa, Huesca.
Nieve&Sport (NURIA FARLED)
18.6 km
Explore top-quality sportswear at Nieve&Sport in Panticosa, the ultimate boutique for outdoor enthusiasts in the stunning Pyrenees region.
Ordiso Bicis and Barrancos
26.3 km
Discover Ordiso Bicis and Barrancos: Your hub for cycling and adventure sports in the stunning Huesca region.
Le Sherpa des Pyrénées
26.3 km
Discover adventure at Le Sherpa des Pyrénées, your premier destination for sporting goods in Cauterets, nestled in the stunning Pyrenees.
Mundo Glaciar Shop
26.3 km
Discover top-notch snowboarding gear and expert advice at Mundo Glaciar Shop in Biescas, your go-to destination for winter sports.
Cycl'in Pyrénées
32.0 km
Experience the thrill of cycling in the majestic Pyrenees with Cycl'in Pyrénées, offering rentals, repairs, and expert guidance for all cycling enthusiasts.
La Boutique Artisanale
35.2 km
Discover the essence of the Pyrenees at La Boutique Artisanale, where local craftsmanship meets unique gifts for every traveler.
Le comptoir des souvenirs Dupouy Ines
35.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Le Comptoir des Souvenirs Dupouy Ines in the charming village of Esquièze-Sère.
Regalos Ordesa
35.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Regalos Ordesa, the perfect spot for souvenirs in the breathtaking Torla-Ordesa region.
La Tienda de Montaña Torla-Ordesa
36.0 km
Discover top-tier exercise equipment at La Tienda de Montaña Torla-Ordesa, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Ordesa National Park.
Panaderías del Pireneo
36.0 km
Discover the authentic taste of the Pyrenees at Panaderías del Pireneo, a charming bakery in Torla-Ordesa with delectable pastries and artisanal bread.
Artesanía las Nieves
36.0 km
Explore the exquisite handmade crafts at Artesanía las Nieves in Torla-Ordesa, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Huesca with every unique piece.
Estanco Tabacos La Casa Vieja
36.1 km
Experience the charm of Estanco Tabacos La Casa Vieja in Torla-Ordesa, where premium tobacco meets local culture in a picturesque setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar restaurante La Cabaña Grill & Chill
16.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of grilled delights at La Cabaña Grill & Chill, a must-visit restaurant in El Pueyo de Jaca, Huesca.
Molly Malone Panticosa Chill
18.7 km
Molly Malone Panticosa Chill: A charming piano bar with breathtaking views and live music in the heart of the Pyrenees.
LA PIQUE LONGUE
26.3 km
Experience a delightful fusion of fine wines, delicious tapas, and cozy tea moments at La Pique Longue in Cauterets.
Skibar
26.4 km
Discover the charm of Skibar in Cauterets, where cozy atmosphere meets delightful drinks and light bites amidst stunning mountain views.
Bar d'Azun
32.2 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere of Bar d'Azun, a charming bar in Argelès-Gazost, perfect for drinks and local flavors after an adventurous day.
Merendero de Cotefablo
32.5 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Merendero de Cotefablo, a hidden bar in Huesca offering authentic Spanish cuisine and stunning natural views.
Hotel Restaurante El Acebo-Pirineo Aragones-Jaca
32.5 km
Discover comfort and culinary delights at Hotel Restaurante El Acebo, your gateway to the stunning Pyrenees in Jaca, Huesca.
Bar Le Ti' Pic
35.2 km
Experience Luz-Saint-Sauveur's vibrant spirit at Bar Le Ti' Pic, where cozy ambiance meets delightful local drinks in the heart of the Pyrénées.
Café Bar Mondarruego
35.9 km
Discover the cozy charm of Café Bar Mondarruego, where local flavors meet stunning views in the heart of Torla-Ordesa.
Bar Río Ara
36.0 km
Experience the local flavors and warm hospitality at Bar Río Ara, a cozy bar in the enchanting Torla-Ordesa region.
Bar restaurant Claire Montagne
37.1 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar Restaurant Claire Montagne, where traditional French cuisine meets breathtaking alpine views in Gavarnie-Gèdre.
Cafetería Meliz
39.9 km
Discover the charm of Cafetería Meliz in Sarvisé - where delicious grilled dishes meet aromatic coffee in a cozy setting.
Bar-ChillOut Los Caballos
40.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance and affordable delights of Bar-ChillOut Los Caballos in beautiful Broto, Huesca – a must-visit for every traveler.
The Limerick Irish Pub
40.8 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Limerick Irish Pub in Lourdes, where good food, great drinks, and lively entertainment await travelers.
Show Case Time
41.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lourdes at Show Case Time, where great drinks and good company await in a lively atmosphere.
