The 13 Most Amazing Peaks around Urdos
Best mountain peaks around Urdos are found in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region of France, offering access to the Pyrenees. The area features numerous summits and natural attractions. These locations provide opportunities for hiking and experiencing the natural beauty and geology of the Pyrenees. Urdos serves as a base for exploring these mountain environments.
Best mountain peaks around Urdos
- The most popular mountain peaks is Lac Gentau and View of Pic du Midi d'Ossau, a lake that forms part of a group of six lakes arranged in stairs. This location offers views of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau.
- Another must-see spot is Views of Anayet and its mountain lakes, a viewpoint. Visitors can enjoy views of the Anayet peaks and lakes, with the silhouette of the Midi d'Ossau visible to the north.
- Visitors also love Anayet Peak, a summit. This area is notable for being the remains of an ancient volcanic caldera, with the peak forming part of the visible volcanic chimney.
- Urdos is known for its summits, volcanic peaks, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of mountain peaks to see and explore, catering to different interests.
- The mountain peaks around Urdos are appreciated by the komoot community, with 17 upvotes and 15 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Pic des Moines
Highlight • Summit
This summit offers a breathtaking view of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau, its valley and the Spanish side.
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Lac Gentau and View of Pic du Midi d'Ossau
Highlight • Lake
Arranged in stairs, they form a magnificent amphitheater to land and admire the Pic du Midi d'Ossau.
Camping is authorized around Lake Gentau, at the foot of the Ayous refuge.
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Views of Anayet and its mountain lakes
Highlight • Viewpoint
In addition, in the background, to the north, the silhouette of the summit of the Midi d'Ossau also rises, so unmistakable.
It is a spectacular place to stop to rest but, beware, it is better not to swim. On the one hand because there may be leeches and, on the other, because the Aragonese lakes are protected and our sun creams and deodorants can damage the water and its ecosystems.
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GR-11.1 Trail
Highlight • Trail
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Anayet Peak
Highlight • Summit
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Tips from the Community
The village of Canfranc is a street with houses on either side, there is no room for much else, the mountain slopes grow from the banks of the Aragón River and do not stop until they exceed two thousand metres in altitude, the valley is a perfect mountain architecture. In the square there is a bar and there is the church of the Assumption, from the 12th century, rustic and rural, a traditional landmark of asylum and protection for the pilgrims from Santiago de Compostela who passed through the Somport pass on their way to Jaca. In another building there is the mountain hostel and little else, there are several tourist accommodations but Canfranc is still a quiet mountain village, isolated from the bustle generated by the alpine ski resorts in the upper part of the valley, it is stuck in time. A good place to start the track is the church square, you have to cross the French road that goes up towards Canfranc-Estación and look for the GR-11.1 post at the beginning of the path of the Gabardito sheepfold. The path is fabulous, it doesn't seem like there could be a path with a pleasant layout in a forest wall of inhospitable and inaccessible appearance. The path climbs between walls of moss-covered stones and mountain huts along the Arones ravine, crosses the stream by a dam regulating the stream and marks several switchbacks on the slope of boxwood and fir trees until the Villanúa track. At the crossroads there are signs for the local trails and the GR-11.1 towards Gabardito and Lizara. The route in winter is ideal for walking on snowshoes.
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Emblematic peak of Canfranc, common at the start of the ski touring season, and recommended family outing to Ibón de Escalar in summer. It is a short, easy and beautiful ascent to Ibón de Escalar, and with a final climb to the peak only for mountaineers.
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It is worth reaching this point since you have a beautiful postcard of the Anayet as well as the Midi d'Ossau
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Beautiful landscape and top hiking area
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Culminating at 2,349 meters above sea level, the Pic des Moines is located a few meters from the border between France and Spain. This summit offers a breathtaking view of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau, its valley and the Spanish side.
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Culminating at 2,349 meters above sea level, the Pic des Moines is located a few meters from the border between France and Spain. This summit offers a breathtaking view of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau, its valley and the Spanish side.
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From this point of the GR11 you can enjoy idyllic views of the high mountains. On one side, the peaks of Anayet, vertex (2,540) and peak (2,574 meters) and on the other, the Anayet lakes. In addition, in the background, to the north, the silhouette of the summit of the Midi d'Ossau also rises, so unmistakable. It is a spectacular place to stop to rest but, beware, it is better not to swim. On the one hand because there may be leeches and, on the other, because the Aragonese lakes are protected and our sun creams and deodorants can damage the water and its ecosystems.
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This whole area is the remains of a large and old volcanic caldera. From here you can clearly see the remains of the volcanic chimney that form the Anayet peak.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular mountain peaks and natural features to visit around Urdos?
Visitors frequently enjoy the area around Lac Gentau and View of Pic du Midi d'Ossau, which offers stunning views of the iconic Pic du Midi d'Ossau. Other popular spots include Views of Anayet and its mountain lakes, known for its idyllic high mountain scenery, and the challenging Anayet Peak itself, which is part of an ancient volcanic caldera.
Are there any challenging mountain peaks for experienced hikers near Urdos?
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Anayet Peak is notable for its challenging ascent. Additionally, the Pic de Sesques (or L'Escarbu) offers a demanding experience with chaotic landscapes and a narrow couloir leading to an aerial ridge, towering above the captivating Lake Isabe.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see when hiking the peaks around Urdos?
The region boasts a variety of natural features. You'll encounter beautiful mountain lakes, such as the group of six lakes around Lac Gentau, and the glacial Lake Isabe. Volcanic landscapes are prominent around Anayet Peak, which is the remains of an ancient volcanic caldera. You can also find dramatic mineral landscapes with steep cliffs, and impressive paths carved into rock faces like the Chemin de la Mâture.
What are the best viewpoints for panoramic scenery in the Urdos mountain region?
For breathtaking panoramic views, the Pic des Moines offers a spectacular 360-degree vista of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau, its valley, and the Spanish side of the Pyrenees. The Pic Labigouer, accessible from Lhers, also provides extensive views stretching from Bedous to the Cirque de Lescun, Ossau, and Balaïtous.
Can I find family-friendly mountain walks around Urdos?
While many peaks offer challenging routes, some areas provide easier access for families. The hike to Ibón de Escalar, near Pic des Moines, is considered an easy and beautiful ascent suitable for a family outing in summer. Always check specific trail conditions and difficulty before heading out with children.
What is the best time of year to hike the mountain peaks around Urdos?
The summer months are generally ideal for hiking the peaks around Urdos, offering pleasant weather and clear trails. However, the Pic des Moines is also a common destination at the start of the ski touring season, suggesting that late spring and early autumn can also be good, especially for ridge walks when free of snow.
Are there opportunities for wild camping or overnight stays near the mountain lakes?
Yes, camping is authorized around Lac Gentau, at the foot of the Ayous refuge. This spot is highly recommended for an overnight stay, allowing you to wake up to stunning views of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau. Bivouacs are generally allowed overnight in the national park, but tents must not be left during the day.
What unique geological features can be observed among the peaks?
The area around Anayet Peak is particularly notable for its geology, being the remains of a large, ancient volcanic caldera, with the peak itself forming part of a visible volcanic chimney. The Pic du Midi d'Ossau is also an ancient volcano, contributing to the region's distinctive landscape.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while exploring the mountains near Urdos?
While hiking the peaks, you might encounter various Pyrenean fauna. Chamois sightings are not uncommon, especially around areas like Pic Labigouer. The challenging 'Tour de l'Ossau' around Pic du Midi d'Ossau also offers opportunities to experience the Pyrenees' iconic wildlife in wild valleys.
Are there any historical paths or unique walking experiences in the Urdos area?
Yes, the Chemin de la Mâture, though not a peak, is an impressive and historical path carved into the rock face above the Gorges de l'Enfer. It offers a unique walking experience, but due to narrow sections without guardrails, it is not recommended for those with vertigo or young children.
What outdoor activities, besides peak bagging, can I do near Urdos?
Beyond summiting peaks, Urdos is a great base for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Somport Pass – Peilhou Dam and Lake loop from Urdos', and challenging MTB trails like the 'Magnificent views loop from Urdos'. For more hiking, explore the 'Mountain Hikes around Urdos' guide, which includes routes like the 'Pic des Moines – Ibón de Escalar loop from Puerto Astún'. You can find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes around Urdos, MTB Trails around Urdos, and Mountain Hikes around Urdos guides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the mountain peaks around Urdos?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, especially of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau from various vantage points like Lac Gentau and Pic des Moines. The serene beauty of the mountain lakes, the unique volcanic landscapes, and the opportunity for challenging hikes are also highly valued. Many enjoy the authentic mountain experience, including encountering local shepherds and wildlife.
Most popular attractions around Urdos
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