Discover the Larboust
in the Pyrenees

A landscape shaped by nature

The Larboust valley is part of a high mountain landscape typical of the central Pyrenees. It stretches across the foothills of the central Pyrenees, where forests, pastures and steep slopes alternate. Altitudes range from 660 metres at the bottom of the valley to over 3,000 metres for the surrounding peaks, such as Pic Perdiguère and Pic des Gourgs Blancs. The area is marked by ancient glacial valleys that have given way to high-altitude lakes and characteristic rock formations.

The watercourses that criss-cross the valley, particularly the Lys (or Lis) and its tributaries, play an essential role in the local ecosystem. They feed the wetlands and lush green meadows that contrast with the aridity of the summits. This diversity of natural environments encourages the presence of fauna and flora adapted to mountain conditions.

Villages steeped in tradition and heritage

The Larboust valley is home to a number of villages that bear witness to a rural and mountain past that is still very much alive. Among them, Cazeaux-de-Larboust, Poubeau, Oô, Garin and Castillon-de-Larboust have preserved some remarkable architectural features. Romanesque churches, stone houses with slate roofs, fountains and barns are all typical of the Pyrenean valleys.

The church of Saint-Pierre in Cazeaux-de-Larboust, for example, is a Romanesque building whose interior frescoes bear precious witness to medieval religious art. In Garin, the chapel of Saint-Pé-de-la-Moraine is a reminder of the importance of pilgrimages in the region. These sites are often located close to ancient transhumance routes, reminders of the close link between the valley and pastoral livestock farming.

The rich and varied biodiversity of the Larboust valley

Thanks to the diversity of its habitats, the Larboust valley is home to some remarkable flora and fauna. In the beech and fir forests, you can spot deer, roe deer and the elusive capercaillie. Higher up, in the moorland and grassland areas, you’ll find isards, the Pyrenean cousins of the chamois, as well as marmots and birds of prey such as the golden eagle and the bearded vulture.

The valley’s flora also reflects this diversity. The high-altitude meadows are home to species adapted to extreme conditions, such as the Pyrenean Androsace and the intermediate saxifrage. Near torrents and streams, you can see cottongrass and carnivorous plants such as round-leaved sundew.

Hiking and outdoor activities

The Larboust valley is a great place for hiking and outdoor activities. There are a number of routes for exploring the varied landscape, on foot, by mountain bike or even on cross-country skis in winter.

The path leading to Lac d’Oô is one of the best known in the region. Accessible to all, it passes through a forest before leading to a magnificent lake dominated by an imposing waterfall. More experienced hikers can continue on to the Espingo and Portillon lakes, located at higher altitudes.

Thrill-seekers can also try their hand at rock-climbing or via ferrata, particularly on the rock faces that line the valley. In winter, the resorts of Peyragudes and Superbagnères offer downhill skiing, while the Nordic areas are ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.