Urdès combines a south-facing hillside location with peaceful walks in the eastern forests and heathland. A marked circular hiking trail leads through this area; there are also two cycling routes with different connections to the village. If you are looking for accommodation, these specific options can help you plan your stay around a walk, mountain biking or a cycling route.

Hillside location, forests and heathland

Urdès lies on a south-facing hillside, with occasional views of the Pyrenees. To the east, the forests and heathland are important areas for peaceful walks. A marked hiking trail runs through these eastern forests and heathland. La Geule and its tributary are also designated within the European Natura 2000 network. Two distinct features shape the landscape: the south-facing hillside opens up to views of the Pyrenees in places, while the eastern forests and heathland are important areas for peaceful walks.

The Bois et landes d’Urdès loop

The Bois et landes d’Urdès is a 6.80 km circular trail, with a stated walking time of 1 hour and 40 minutes. The route is rated very easy, but is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

The trailhead is behind Maison Lassère. Before setting off, check the current trail signage at the starting point. The route first passes through fields in the heathland; it then climbs through the forest. It reaches the wooded ridge of American oaks, the Turon. You may also spot a middle spotted woodpecker along the route.

Cycling: two different route connections

Those planning to mountain bike can choose the De Lacq à Serres-Sainte-Marie loop. It starts on Chemin de la Hourcade in Urdès; its stated distance and duration are 17.2 km and 1 hour and 15 minutes. The hiking route is shorter at 6.80 km, but takes 25 minutes longer than the 17.2 km mountain bike loop, which takes 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The second cycling loop, Entre Landes et Béarn, has a different connection to the village: Urdès lies below its route, which then continues towards Arthez-de-Béarn. This distinguishes the mountain bike loop, which starts in Urdès, from the route for which the village’s position in relation to the course is described.

Accommodation and planning your day

The walking loop passes through forest and heathland up to the Turon; the two cycling routes have different geographical connections. A public picnic area has been set up on the banks of the Geule and can be reached on foot from the village. Check its current condition before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Barraute-Camu, Navarrenx, Banca, Jurançon, Louvie-Soubiron, Burgaronne, Macaye, Gelos.

For the wider travel overview: Pyrenees-Atlantiques.