Arette: discover the Béarn village in the Pyrenees

The region enjoys a privileged location between lush green valleys, forests and Pyrenean peaks. Travelers who want to discover the most beautiful landscapes the country can also consult this comprehensive guide to the French regions at cparici.com.

According to the commune's official website, the area has a strong cultural identity linked to the Barétous valley and traditional pastoralism. According to the online encyclopedia Wikipedia, the 1967 earthquake had a profound effect on local history and helped to transform the area.’architecture of the village.

What to do in Arette in summer

The most beautiful walks around Arette

During the summer, Arette is becoming a veritable paradise for hikers in the Bearn Pyrenees. The trails offer a variety of landscapes, from forests and high-altitude pastures to limestone cliffs and spectacular views of the Pyrenees mountain range.

One of the most popular itineraries starts at the La Pierre Saint-Martin resort, around 28 kilometers from the center of the commune. This area is the ideal starting point for a number of hikes accessible to families and experienced walkers alike.

Hike to Pic d'Anie

The Pic d'Anie is one of the most emblematic peaks in the vicinity of’Arette. Culminating at 2,504 metres, it offers exceptional views over the Béarn and Spanish Navarre regions.

• Recommended departure: La Pierre Saint-Martin parking lot
• Average distance: 15 km round trip
• Level: advanced
• Duration: approximately 6 to 7 hours

This route crosses the famous Larra karstic massif, known for its mineral landscapes that are unique in the Pyrenees. The Natura 2000 site of the mountains The Béarn region protects an important part of this natural environment.

The Col de Labays trail

For a more accessible outing, the Col de Labays is an excellent alternative around’Arette.

• Departure point: D132 road from the Barétous valley
• Level: easy to intermediate
• Ideal for families
• Panoramic view of the Béarn mountains

This route allows you to observe the mountain pastures and herds that still perpetuate local pastoral traditions.

Kakuetta Gorge

About 35 minutes from’Arette, The Kakuetta Gorge is one of the most spectacular natural sites in the Basque Country and Béarn.

📍 Address :
Kakuetta Gorge
Sainte-Engrâce, 64560

This natural canyon impresses with its sheer cliffs, suspended footbridges and final waterfall. The site attracts thousands of visitors every year during the summer season.

According to the official guide to the Béarn Pyrenees, the gorges are one of the most visited natural areas in the region.

The best outdoor spots near Arette

There's much more to the commune than hiking. In summer, Arette also attracts outdoor sports enthusiasts thanks to the diversity of its terrain.

Mountain biking at La Pierre Saint-Martin

The resort of La Pierre Saint-Martin has developed several trails suitable for downhill and mountain biking.

📍 Address :
La Pierre Saint-Martin station
64570 Arette

The itineraries take in high-altitude pastures and Pyrenean forests, with varying degrees of difficulty.

Canyoning in the Bearn Pyrenees

The rivers near’Arette also offer canyoning in summer. Several local service providers organize supervised outings in Béarn's canyons.

Downpipes include :

• natural jumps ;
• rock slides ;
• reminders ;
• whitewater swimming.

This activity is particularly popular with groups and sporty families looking for a thrill.

Caving in the Larra massif

The La Pierre Saint-Martin area is world-renowned for its underground networks. Visitors can discover certain caves accompanied by specialized guides.

📍 Main zone :
Massif de Larra - Pierre Saint-Martin sector

The Pierre Saint-Martin chasm remains a landmark in European caving. The subterranean landscape fascinates adventure and geology enthusiasts alike.

What to do in Arette in winter

Skiing at La Pierre Saint-Martin

In winter, Arette is becoming one of the leading snow sports destinations in the Béarn Pyrenees thanks to the La Pierre Saint-Martin ski resort. Situated at an altitude of around 1,500 meters, this family-friendly resort attracts thousands of visitors every year to enjoy the skiing and snow-covered scenery.

📍 Address :
La Pierre Saint-Martin station
64570 Arette

The ski area offers dozens of slopes suitable for all levels:

• green runs for beginners ;
• red and black runs for experienced skiers ;
• freestyle spaces ;
• children's play areas.

The resort also boasts modern lifts for fast access to the various sectors of the ski area. Thanks to its altitude and artificial snow, Arette generally enjoys good skiing conditions throughout the winter season.

The N'PY network reports that the resort is particularly attractive to families, thanks to its friendly atmosphere and rates that are often more affordable than in the Alps.

The best ski slopes

Several trails are particularly popular with visitors to the region Arette.

Boulevard des Pyrénées track

• Level: blue
• Ideal for families
• Beautiful panoramic view

Arlas trail

• Level: red
• Sporty descent
• Popular with experienced skiers

Front de neige beginners' zone

• Easy access
• ESF courses
• Children's treadmills

📍 École du Ski Français :
ESF La Pierre Saint-Martin
64570 Arette

Beginners can take group or private lessons to discover skiing in safe conditions.

Snowshoe trekking

The snowy landscapes around’Arette also offer magnificent itineraries for snowshoe hikes. This activity lets you discover the mountains of Béarn in a calm, immersive atmosphere.

La Pierre Saint-Martin plateau itinerary

• Level: easy
• Duration: 2 hours
• Accessible to families

Snow-covered fir tree circuit

• Level: intermediate
• Departure from the station
• Passage through Pyrenean forests

Guided outings are often an opportunity to observe winter wildlife and learn more about the local mountain environment.

The Pyrenees National Park reminds us that the snow-covered areas around’Arette are home to several protected species adapted to winter conditions.

Nordic activities

The commune also offers a number of Nordic activities for visitors wishing to vary the pleasures during their stay at Arette.

Nordic skiing

Certain areas near La Pierre Saint-Martin are ideal for cross-country skiing in an exceptional natural setting.

Dog sled rides

Depending on snow conditions, local service providers can organize driving lessons.

Sledging and children's areas

Families staying at Arette enjoy sledging and playing in the snow. These facilities reinforce the resort's family-friendly image.

Staying at Les 3 Edelweiss B&B

Among the popular accommodations around’Arette, Les 3 Edelweiss B&B attracts travelers looking for a peaceful break in the heart of the Béarn mountains. Located close to large natural areas and hiking trails, this hosting is an interesting option in both summer and winter for discovering the Barétous valley and the resort of La Pierre Saint-Martin.

📍 Address :
Gîte Les 3 Edelweiss
64570 Arette

This mountain gîte is particularly appealing:

• families ;
• hiking groups ;
• ski enthusiasts; ;
• visitors looking for authentic accommodation in the Pyrenees.

Travelers generally appreciate the natural environment, the proximity to outdoor activities and the friendly atmosphere typical of mountain lodgings in the area.’Arette. Its location makes it easy to reach :

• the ski slopes of La Pierre Saint-Martin ;
• hiking trails ;
• the villages of the Barétous valley ;
• several major natural sites in the Béarn Pyrenees.

The area around the gîte is also appreciated for its calm and panoramic views of the Pyrenean relief, particularly spectacular at sunrise and sunset.

Where is Arette?

A village in the heart of Béarn

Located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department, Arette belongs to the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and is part of the historic Béarn territory. This mountain commune lies to the south of Pau, right on the border with France. Spanish and the wide open spaces of the Pyrenees. Thanks to its strategic geographical position, the town is a popular starting point for discovering the Barétous valley and surrounding peaks.

The municipal territory covers a large area, with a mix of forest, pasture and mountainous terrain. This diversity of landscapes explains why Arette attracts both green tourism and winter sports enthusiasts. In particular, the town is associated with the famous La Pierre Saint-Martin ski resort, one of the main ski areas in the Béarn Pyrenees.

According to the Institut national de l'information géographique et forestière (IGN), the relief around the commune varies greatly, with altitudes ranging from around 200 meters to over 2,000 meters in mountainous areas. This particular geography is conducive to a rich ecology and numerous hiking trails.

The Barétous Valley

The Barétous valley is one of the key elements of the region's identity.’Arette. This Béarn valley is renowned for its pastoral traditions, its natural landscapes and its ancient history linked to cross-border trade with Spain. For centuries, its inhabitants have lived by the rhythm of livestock farming, transhumance and mountain agriculture.

The commune occupies a central position in this Pyrenean valley. Here, visitors discover an authentic environment where many traditions of the Béarn region are still alive and well. Typical houses, ancient farms and churches still bear witness to the region's rich past.

The official Pyrénées-Atlantiques tourism website points out that the valley is particularly popular for its panoramic views and outdoor activities. The landscapes around’Arette change with the seasons, from snowy winter scenery to verdant summer pastures.

Arette's neighboring towns

Several typical villages surround Arette and contribute to the area's tourist appeal. Among the best-known localities are Sainte-Engrâce, Lanne-en-Barétous and Aramits, famous for its tales of the Béarn musketeers. These communes share a common mountain culture and a remarkable natural heritage.

The town's surroundings also provide quick access to various natural sites in the Pyrenees. Visitors can reach mountain passes, forests and panoramic trails in just a few kilometers. This proximity to nature is one of the region's main tourist attractions.

Last but not least, the commune is ideally located for exploring the whole of Béarn. From Arette, Pau, Oloron-Sainte-Marie and certain Spanish valleys on the other side of the Pyrenees are all within easy reach.

How to get to Arette

Access to Arette is mainly by road. From Pau, it takes around an hour by car to reach the commune. Visitors from Bordeaux or Toulouse are also within easy reach of the region thanks to the south-west motorway network.

The nearest train station is in Oloron-Sainte-Marie, while Pau-Pyrénées airport is the region's main air access point. In winter, there are also special ski links to La Pierre Saint-Martin from neighboring towns.

The France Voyage travel guide points out that the road leading to the resort offers several remarkable views of the Béarn mountains. This panoramic dimension is an integral part of the tourist experience surrounding’Arette.

History of Arette

The origins of the village of Arette

The story ofArette Its history dates back several centuries, and is deeply rooted in the history of Béarn and the Pyrenees. Since the Middle Ages, the commune has occupied an important position in the Barétous valley, thanks to trade and pastoral exchanges between France and Spain. Its inhabitants made their living mainly from mountain farming, livestock breeding and trade linked to the Pyrenean routes.

The region's development has long been based on pastoralism. This traditional activity consisted in moving flocks around with the seasons to take advantage of the high altitude pastures. Even today, the landscape around’Arette bear the imprint of this mountain culture, with vast grassy areas and pastoral huts on the heights.

Historical archives also show that the commune benefited from a strong collective organization very early on. In particular, the Barétous valley is known for its long-standing agreements with neighboring Spanish valleys concerning the use of grazing land. According to several local historians, these cross-border traditions are among the oldest in Europe still celebrated today.

The historic 1967 earthquake

The most significant event in the history of’Arette is undoubtedly the earthquake of August 13, 1967. This earthquake, with an estimated magnitude of 5.5 on the Richter scale, caused extensive damage in and around the village. Many of the village's buildings were destroyed or severely damaged.

This earthquake remains one of the most powerful recorded in mainland France in the 20th century. It was a major catastrophe that profoundly transformed the local urban landscape. Several hundred houses had to be rebuilt after the disaster. According to data from the French Central Seismological Bureau, the epicenter was located in the immediate vicinity of the Barétous valley.

The reconstruction of’Arette marks a turning point in the evolution of the village. Some of today's buildings date directly from this period of renovation. The new buildings are designed to better resist seismic risks, while preserving the architectural identity of the Béarn region.

Even today, the earthquake still occupies an important place in the local collective memory. Visitors regularly come across exhibitions and historical documents recounting this natural disaster, which had a profound impact on the region.

A mountain-oriented community

From the 1960s onwards, Arette is experiencing a new phase of development thanks to mountain tourism. The creation and expansion of the La Pierre Saint-Martin ski resort gradually transformed the local economy. Tourism took on an essential role alongside agriculture and livestock farming.

The development of winter infrastructure is attracting many visitors to ski in the Béarn Pyrenees. This development strengthened the town's appeal and diversified its economic resources. The town is gradually becoming a major destination for mountain tourism in south-west France.

According to the resort's official website, the ski area continues to modernize its facilities in order to welcome a growing number of visitors every season. This dynamic development makes a major contribution to’Arette throughout the region.

Arette's cultural heritage

The cultural heritage of’Arette reflects the commune's Béarn and mountain identity. Despite earthquake-related reconstruction, many historic features are still visible in the village and surrounding area. Traditional houses often feature typical Béarn facades, slate roofs and structures adapted to the Pyrenean climate.

Saint-Pierre church is one of the town's main heritage landmarks. Local festivals, traditional markets and pastoral celebrations also contribute to the preservation of regional customs. The Béarnaise culture remains particularly present in daily life, notably through gastronomy and certain linguistic expressions.

Musical and festive traditions also play an important role in the commune. Every year, various events showcase the Pyrenean heritage and strengthen the local people's attachment to their land. Today, this cultural authenticity is a major asset for tourism in the Pyrenees.’Arette.

Why is Arette famous?

La Pierre Saint-Martin ski resort

The reputation of’Arette The ski resort of La Pierre Saint-Martin extends far beyond the borders of Béarn. Situated high above the village, this is one of the largest ski areas in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Every winter, thousands of visitors come to enjoy the slopes, the snow cover and the exceptional panoramic views of the Pyrenean mountain range.

The ski area offers runs for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. Families particularly appreciate the resort's friendly atmosphere and specially designed children's areas. The infrastructure also includes modern lifts, freestyle zones and Nordic skiing areas.

According to figures provided by the resort, the ski area boasts dozens of kilometers of slopes in various sectors. This winter activity makes a major contribution to the local economy and to the reputation of’Arette.

A destination not to be missed for hiking

The winter season attracts many visitors, Arette also attracts hiking enthusiasts in spring and summer. The commune benefits from an exceptional natural environment, allowing you to explore a variety of trails in the heart of the Bearn Pyrenees.

Walkers will discover a landscape of forests, pastures and peaks offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Some itineraries offer the chance to observe local wildlife, including vultures, isards and various species of mountain birds.

The trails around’Arette are suitable for families and experienced hikers alike. Many of the routes lead to passes or panoramic points that are popular with photographers and nature lovers. The Guide du Routard recommends the area for its diversity of itineraries and unspoilt authenticity.

A mecca for caving

The’Arette is also famous in the world of caving. The limestone reliefs of the Bearnais Pyrenees are home to numerous caves and underground networks that are particularly renowned among specialists. This geological wealth attracts enthusiasts from all over Europe.

The Pierre Saint-Martin is an emblematic site for French caving. Several major explorations were carried out here during the 20th century, helping to put the region on the international map. Underground caves offer impressive landscapes of galleries, chasms and spectacular rock formations.

This scientific and sporting activity contributes to the tourist identity of’Arette. Supervised outings now enable visitors to discover certain underground spaces in complete safety. Local professionals also offer beginners' courses.

A remarkable natural heritage

The fame of’Arette is also based on the quality of its natural landscapes. Thanks to its mountainous terrain and Pyrenean climate, the municipality boasts great ecological diversity. Forests, rivers and high altitudes create an environment that is particularly popular with green tourism enthusiasts.

As the seasons change, so do the landscapes. In winter, snow covers the peaks and transforms the resort into a sporting destination. In summer, the mountains are adorned with vast pastures, where the herds are still part of the local pastoral tradition.

The nearby Pyrenees National Park and several protected natural areas add to the area's ecological appeal. This proximity to unspoilt nature explains why Arette attracts travelers in search of authenticity and wide-open spaces.

A strong Béarn identity

Finally, Arette is known for its cultural identity deeply rooted in Béarn traditions. Gastronomy, local festivals and pastoral heritage all contribute to the village's authentic image. Visitors discover a mountain culture that is still very much alive, marked by agricultural know-how and regional culinary specialties.

Local markets regularly feature Pyrenean cheeses, artisanal charcuterie and the famous garbure béarnaise. This wealth of gastronomic delights is an integral part of the local tourist experience.

The town also retains a strong attachment to its festive traditions. Several events are organized throughout the year to showcase the local music, traditional dance and customs of the Barétous valley. This cultural dimension reinforces the appeal of’Arette with visitors from France and abroad.

Frequently asked questions about Arette

Where is Arette?

Arette is located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, in the heart of the Béarn region. The commune is located in the Barétous valley, close to the Spanish border and the ski resort of La Pierre Saint-Martin.

What's Arette known for?

Arette is best known for :

• La Pierre Saint-Martin ski resort; ;
• its Pyrenean landscapes; ;
• hiking and outdoor activities ;
• the historic 1967 earthquake; ;
• and pastoral traditions.

Every year, the commune attracts visitors who come to enjoy mountain tourism in both summer and winter.

When is the best time to visit Arette?

The best time depends on the activities you're looking for.

• December to March: skiing and winter sports.
• June to September: hiking, mountain biking and exploring the Pyrenees.

Summer remains the ideal time to explore the natural landscapes around’Arette, while winter attracts snow lovers.

Can you ski in Arette?

Yes, Arette owns the La Pierre Saint-Martin ski resort, one of the main ski areas in the Béarn Pyrenees.

📍 Address :
La Pierre Saint-Martin station
64570 Arette

The resort offers :

• downhill skiing ;
• snowboard ;
• snowshoes ;
• beginners' areas ;
• family activities.

What are the best walks around Arette?

Several routes are particularly popular:

• Pic d'Anie; ;
• Col de Labays; ;
• the trails of La Pierre Saint-Martin ;
• Kakuetta Gorge.

These routes allow you to discover the emblematic landscapes of the Béarn Pyrenees around’Arette.

How many days should I allow to visit Arette?

A weekend will already enable you to discover the main tourist attractions. However, a one-week stay is still ideal for getting the most out of your stay:

• hiking ;
• neighboring villages; ;
• mountain activities ;
• of Béarn gastronomy.

Where to stay in Arette?

The commune offers several types of accommodation:

• hotels ;
• gîtes ;
• mountain residences ;
• bed and breakfast ;
• campsites.

The gîte Les 3 Edelweiss, the accommodations at La Pierre Saint-Martin and several establishments in the Barétous valley are among the popular options in the vicinity of’Arette.

What can you eat in Arette?

The local gastronomy features :

• garbure béarnaise ;
• cheeses from the Pyrenees ;
• farm products ;
• mountain specialities.

Several local restaurants offer traditional cuisine from the Béarn region.

Is Arette family-friendly?

Yes, Arette is a popular family destination thanks to :

• nature activities ;
• accessible ski slopes ;
• easy hikes ;
• its calm, authentic atmosphere.

Families particularly appreciate the area's natural environment and friendly atmosphere.

What's the link between Arette and caving?

The La Pierre Saint-Martin sector, located on the territory of’Arette, is world-renowned for its spectacular underground networks and chasms. The area has been a major site for European caving for several decades.

Conclusion

Between mountains, Béarn traditions and wide open spaces, Arette is one of the most popular destinations in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. The commune attracts skiers, hikers, gourmets and cultural heritage enthusiasts alike.

Thanks to the resort of La Pierre Saint-Martin, the landscapes of the Vallée de Barétous and its preserved mountain identity, the town offers an authentic experience far removed from the big, crowded tourist destinations. Summer and winter alike, visitors can discover a region rich in outdoor activities, typical villages and local specialities.

Nature lovers will particularly appreciate the Pyrenean panoramas, the hiking trails and the pastoral traditions that are still very much alive in the area.’Arette. This authenticity is one of the region's main assets.

To find out more about the history and background of this Béarn commune, you can also consult this encyclopaedic page:
Discover the complete history of the Béarn commune