An emblematic stage of the Chemin d'Ossau, the link between France and Spain involves crossing the Col des Moines. No real difficulty if the weather is good, just a long climb that should be started early. Above all, pleasant hiking in landscapes marked by active pastoralism, under the watch of the majestic Pic du Midi d'Ossau.
- Distance 17.33 km
- Elevation gain 1280 m
- Elevation lost 680 m
- Min. elevation 1022 m
- Max. elevation. 2170 m
- Duration (depending on pace) 6h
- Marking GR®
Every year, from June onwards, the herds of cows, sheep and horses go up to the estives (summer pastures) to find fresh grass. This is known as the transhumance! Even if it is also carried out by truck, the transhumance has its followers on foot and it is common to see long processions wandering through the villages and along the roads of the valley, to the sound of bells. At the beginning of July, usually between the 1st and the 10th, a festival is held to celebrate this ancient tradition.
You may notice differences between the distance and elevation data displayed on the digital tools and the pdf file due to different data sources.
the digital trails
The Ossau Valley Tourist Office
Welcome desk of Laruns
Maison de la Vallée d’Ossau – 64 440 LARUNS
+33(0)5 59 05 31 41
Tourist Office
Ossau valley Land of adventures - Parcours - Circuit 64. GR®108 Gabas - Col du Somport par le col des moines
Ossau valley Land of adventures - Parcours - Circuit 64. GR®108 Gabas - Col du Somport par le col des moines
Ossau valley Land of adventures - Parcours - Circuit 64. GR®108 Gabas - Col du Somport par le col des moines
