2025 Early Bird SaleFinal WeekSave Now
Duration
10 days
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 8 nights comfort hotels
Meals
  • 8 Dinners
  • 8 Breakfasts

Price

ON SALE

$1350 USD

Adult$1283USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: FC6

Trip highlights


  • Walking through the wooded hills of the Béarn region with its white villages
  • Arriving in St Jean Pied de Port, the cross roads of the "Grand Chemin de Saint Jacques"
  • Enjoying the camaraderie of fellow hikers and pilgrims
  • Experiencing the culinary delights of the region and the hospitality of your accommodation hosts

Traverse the centuries of time and the borders of Europe on the medieval pilgrim trail of Compostela. In the 9th century, the tomb of the apostle St James was unearthed in Compostela. The site became the focus of a pilgrim trail beginning in France, and crossing northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. This journey, along the Via Podiensis, the French Way of St James, takes pilgrims from Le Puy en Velay to the Pyrenees at St Jean Pied de Port. The route passes a multitude of churches and monasteries, resembling a travelling museum of Romanesque art. Six stages of this historic trail are included in our self-guided walking program in France.

Walking from Aire sur l'Adour offers an insight into the contrasting Béarn and Basque regions of France which have a unique culture, language and cuisine. The landscape is inspiring as you walk between woods and open fields, past a multitude of chapels and historic sights and take time to absorb the history of the villages passed, once resting points for thousands of pilgrims during the Middle Ages. Arriving into St Jean Pied de Port through the Porte Saint-Jacques is a highlight and a rewarding end to the journey along the Via Podensis.

Trip Grading

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

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On arrival make your way to your hotel in either Aire or Barcelonne. Aire sur l'Adour is separated into two parts, with the lower section by the river and dominated by the cathedral of St Jean Baptiste, and the high town or Mas d'Aire which is dominated by the Eglise de Sainte Quitterie. Neighbouring Barcelonne is located on the banks of the Adour river and is known for its AOC Saint-Mont wine and rich architectural and historical heritage. The remainder of the day is free to explore before dinner in the hotel dining room.

Meals:  D

Your day to Arzacq Arraziguet wanders through lush green countryside with hamlets and ancient buildings such as medieval chapels and wash-houses (“lavoirs”). It is a demanding walking day, mainly due to its length rather than the difficulty of the trail. You will have your first view of the snow-capped Pyrenees today as you enter the department of the Pyrenees-Atlantiques. You will pass the magnificent 11th century Church of Miramont Sensacq, formerly dedicated to St James. Pimbo is a “street bastide”, stretching along a high narrow bridge. From here you enter the region called “Béarn”. Arzacq Arraziguet is a bastide town built in the 11th century with two main squares and 2 “lavoirs”. Overnight and dinner in Arzaq-Arraziquet. Distance 32km/19.9mi, +751m/2464ft, -725m/2379ft Note: If you are unsure about walking 32km, it is possible to break this day into two days, staying in the town of Miramont (18km). If you wish to do this please advise us at the time of booking - a supplement applies.

Meals:  B,D

A shorter day today. The trail continues through the beautiful Béarn region. With the Pyrenees to the south, you'll cross rolling hills and pass many villages such as Louvigny to Larreule with its Benedictine Monastery. Overnight in Larreule. Distance 12km/7.8mi, +310m/1017ft, -330m/1083ft

Meals:  B,D

The trail continues past a Romanesque chapel to Arthez-de-Béarn where you'll notice the transition towards Basque-style architecture. The route passes through woods and the Church of Argagnon, the Chapelle of Caubin and the Chapelle of Cagnez before reaching the small village of Maslacq, situated on the Gave de Pau. Overnight Maslacq or 1.5km before town of Argagnon. Distance 26km/16.1mi, +193m/633ft, -241m/790ft

Meals:  B,D

Starting the day through fields and woods following the Gave de Pau, the route passes a sanctuary and later a former monastery (La Sauvelade). The undulating trail takes you through quiet rural scenes to reach the town of Navarrenx, the first in France to be fortified with Italian style ramparts. Distance 22km/13.7mi, +526m/1726ft, -660m/2165ft

Meals:  B,D

Another great day's walk through the last of the Béarnais countyside on this route, crossing small streams and ascending fields and wooded trails. En route you pass a pâté producer (Jean Haget) and the Mongaston Castle, before reaching the small village of Lichos, the birthplace of Saint-Grat, Bishop of Oloron. You have now crossed over into the Basque region of France. Distance 15km/9.3mi, +331m/1086ft, -283m/928ft

Meals:  B,D

The walk today takes you via the Eglise d'Olhaiby along rural trails to St Palais, a cultural town which plays host to colourful festivals and markets. Here the street signs are in the Basque language which is typical of the region. This is also the entry point into the Lower Navarre, formerly the Kingdom of Navarre. There are a number of sights to visit including a museum containing historic pilgrim relics and a statue of St James the pilgrim. Distance 25km/15.5mi, +404m/1325ft, -612m/2008ft

Meals:  B,D

Continue on a trail past pilgrim hospitals, small chapels and historic villages to Ostabat-Asme, which was a large centre for pilgrims in the Middle Ages. Dependent on availability, at times we use a hotel in Larceveau, 2km further along the trail. Distance 11km/6.8mi, +406m/1332ft, -294m/964ft

Meals:  B,D

The trail takes you along the D933 through the valley and usually along old lanes either side of the main road. En route you pass the sights of pilgrims hospitals and the Croix de Galzetaburia which is a cross placed on the crossing of Roman roads to mark the entry of secondary routes onto the Via Podiensis. Passing the villages of Mongelos and Bussanarits you reach Donazaharre with its church of St Pierre. Not long afterwards, you will enter the pretty pilgrimage town of St Jean Pied de Port via its Porte Saint-Jacques. The trip concludes on arrival in St Jean (the night in St Jean is not included). Distance 22km/13.9mi, +446m/1463ft, -437m/1434ft With its ornate Basque style houses, wealth of sights to visit (Citadelle, Prison des Eveques, museums and churches, the various Portes (doors) and bridges over the river Nive), it is well worth spending extra time at St Jean to appreciate the historic significance of the town and celebrate the end of your walk. We can assist with booking your accommodation - please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B

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On arrival make your way to your hotel in either Aire or Barcelonne. Aire sur l'Adour is separated into two parts, with the lower section by the river and dominated by the cathedral of St Jean Baptiste, and the high town or Mas d'Aire which is dominated by the Eglise de Sainte Quitterie. Neighbouring Barcelonne is located on the banks of the Adour river and is known for its AOC Saint-Mont wine and rich architectural and historical heritage. The remainder of the day is free to explore before dinner in the hotel dining room.

Meals:  D

Today you will through lush green countryside and pass hamlets and ancient buildings such as medieval chapels and wash-houses (“lavoirs”). The snow-capped Pyrenees come into view as you enter the Pyrenees-Atlantiques department. Pass the magnificent 11th century Church of Miramont Sensacq, formerly dedicated to St James, and Pimbo, one of the oldest villages in the Landes, where you will stop for the night. Distance: 20km/12.5mi, +416m/1364ft, -253m/830ft

Meals:  B,D

Today the trail continues through the beautiful Béarn region. With the Pyrenees to the south, you'll cross rolling hills, pass the town of Arzacq Arraziguet, a bastide town built in the 11th century with two main squares and two “lavoirs, and many villages such as Louvigny. Distance 26.8km/16.75mi, +481m/1578ft, -437m/1433ft

Meals:  B,D

Today your walk takes you to Larreule with its Benedictine Monastery and then Uzan, where you can visit the beautiful rural church of Sainte Quitterie and a stone fountain. From Pomps you continue to Arthez-de-Béarn, with its distinctive Basque architecture. Stay tonight in Arthez-de-Béarn. Distance 19.3km/12.1mi, +230m/755ft, -271m/890ft

Meals:  B,D

For this stage, the route passes through woods, churches and chapels before reaching the small village of Maslacq. Later the trail passes a sanctuary and former monastery, La Sauvelade. Distance: 20.5km/12.8mi, +361m/1184ft, -390m/1280ft

Meals:  B,D

The undulating trail takes you through quiet rural scenes to reach the town of Navarrenx, the first in France to be fortified with Italian style ramparts. Another great day's walk through the last of the Béarnais countyside on this route, crossing small streams and ascending fields and wooded trails. En route you pass a pâté producer (Jean Haget) and the Mongaston Castle, before reaching the small village of Lichos, the birthplace of Saint-Grat, Bishop of Oloron. You have now crossed over into the Basque region of France. Distance 30.5km/19mi, +431m/1414ft, -552m/1811ft Option: if the full distance to Aroue is too long, you can split today and stay overnight in Navarrenx. This must be requested at time of booking and a supplement applies. Distance to Navarrenx: 11km/6.88mi and from Navarrenx to Aroue: 19.50km/12.2mi.

Meals:  B,D

The walk today takes you via the Eglise d'Olhaiby along rural trails to St Palais, a cultural town which plays host to colourful festivals and markets. Here the street signs are in the Basque language which is typical of the region. This is also the entry point into the Lower Navarre, formerly the Kingdom of Navarre. There are a number of sights to visit including a museum containing historic pilgrim relics and a statue of St James the pilgrim. Note dinner is included tonight if your night here is on a Sunday through to a Thursday. Distance 26km/16.2mi, +370m/1213ft, -577m/1893ft

Meals:  B

Continue on a trail past pilgrim hospitals, small chapels and historic villages to Ostabat-Asme, which was a large centre for pilgrims in the Middle Ages. Dependent on availability, at times we use a hotel in Larceveau, 2km further along the trail. Distance 11km/6.8mi, +380m/1246ft, -397m/1302ft

Meals:  B,D

The trail takes you along the D933 through the valley and usually along old lanes either side of the main road. En route you pass the sights of pilgrims hospitals and the Croix de Galzetaburia which is a cross placed on the crossing of Roman roads to mark the entry of secondary routes onto the Via Podiensis. Passing the villages of Mongelos and Bussanarits you reach Donazaharre with its church of St Pierre. Not long afterwards, you will enter the pretty pilgrimage town of St Jean Pied de Port via its Porte Saint-Jacques. Distance 22.5km/14mi, +397m/1302ft, -387m/1270ft

Meals:  B

Trip concludes after breakfast in St jean Pied de Port. With its ornate Basque style houses, wealth of sights to visit (Citadelle, Prison des Eveques, museums and churches, the various Portes (doors) and bridges over the river Nive), it is well worth spending extra time here to appreciate the historic significance of the town and celebrate the end of your walk. If you'd like to continue your Camino into Spain, please ask our team. We offer the Full Spanish Camino and also the individual stages.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 2024: 8 breakfasts, 8 dinners: Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish or pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes.
  • 2025: 9 breakfasts, 7 dinners : Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish or pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes.
  • 2024: 8 nights 2025: 9 nights in comfortable hotels and guesthouses on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 13kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and roadbook
  • Visitor tax
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Aire sur l'Adour/Barcelonne du Gers and from St Jean Pied de Port
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess luggage
  • Items of a personal nature

Grading

  

The trip is graded moderate to challenging. Daily walks are between 13 and 31km on well marked trails over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to mountainous. This is a well worn path where route finding is straight forward (refer below for further details on self guided walking). The main areas to concentrate on route finding are arriving and leaving towns. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. In the summer months an early start is recommended to avoid sun exposure during the hottest period of the day as sections of the trail are unshaded. You will need a good level of fitness and walking endurance to participate fully in this adventure.


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1283USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Discount for triple share rooms - ppUSD$-64
  • Extra luggage: 1 bag, max 13kg (requested >70days before departure)USD$110
  • Extra luggage: 1 bag, max 13kg (if requested within 70days of departure)USD$160
  • Single SupplementUSD$280
  • Solo Traveller SupplementUSD$380
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Videos

Walking the French Way of St James Camino with UTracks

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