• on foot : 2h - Difficulty Easy
  • Distance : 7.5km
  • Vertical rise : 236m
  • Public : Famille - Tous publics
The bastide town of Arzacq, on the route to Le Puy en Velay, is a remarkable place of heritage and history. The tour follows in the footsteps of the many pilgrims who passed through our region, which boasts a rich architectural and natural heritage, such as the lake surrounded by 2 19th-century horseshoe-shaped washhouses.
Itinerary

  • Step 1 :

    Departure point Car park on the lake embankment (Orthez road). Take the gravel path and after passing the picnic area, you can either head straight ahead towards a 19th-century wash-house 50 m away (then retrace your steps); or take the GR65, also known as the Saint-Jacques de Compostelle path, on your right. You will go round part of the lake and you will be able to observe mallards, great crested grebes, moorhens, coots, crayfish and many more. Take the climb on your left through the woods to the road and turn right.

  • Step 2 :

    Pilgrim's Tree Once you have passed the Pèlerin tree, walk down to the Louvigny mill bridge (private).

  • Step 3 :

    Before the bridge, on your right, follow the path and a little further up you will come to a tarmac road.

  • Step 4 :

    Turn right onto the local road.

  • Step 5 :

    At the crossroads, at the top of the hill, leave the tarmac and go straight ahead, following the path.

  • Step 6 :

    When you reach the main road, turn right as far as the wash-house below. A few steps lead up to it, then turn left at the pumping station and, with a little momentum, climb the embankment using the handrails. At the top on the left, walk along the dyke back to the car park.
Don't miss
  • The bastide (small heritage site) (Heritage)

    First mentioned in the 11th century, Arzacq stands at the end of a spur, which made it an excellent defensive site. A bastide since the 14th century, it is an extension of the existing village.

  • The wash house (built heritage) (Rural heritage)

    There are two wash houses. One at each end of the horseshoe-shaped lake dating from the 19th century.

  • The lake (natural site) (Nature site)

    This 20-hectare lake offers an ideal nature break for hikers and fishing enthusiasts. A 2-kilometre loop around the lake allows you to quietly discover the local flora and fauna. Picnic areas are also available so you can fully enjoy the surroundings.

  • Bayonne Ham House and museum (tasting) (Tasting)

    The museum reveals the history of ham and the secrets of its production through an entertaining tour, before offering you a tasting session.

  • Bars and restaurants (Tasting) (Tasting)

    Bars and restaurants (Tasting)

Nearby routes

Nearby accommodation

Agenda

03Dec

An enchanting family workshop. Simple creative activities: decorations and small Christmas objects. Family fun and imagination!

THEZE