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Around the abbey
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There is so much to see and do around the abbey and a little further afield in the Kiwi Valley! A quick stopover is not enough to discover all the natural and heritage treasures of the village and the surrounding area. If you like to wander, dawdle, cultivate your curiosity, relax, contemplate, play, canoe or paddle, this page is for you!
A day in Sorde-l'Abbaye!
Exploring Sorde-l'Abbaye :
A discovery trail through the village combining heritage and nature, suitable for all ages.
The starting point is located under the porch of the town hall, on Place de l'Eglise.
Distance : 1,3km. Duration : 30 min
Rallye Terre é o :
An informative and fun walk around the village
This rally was created by Sorde Abbey in partnership with 2X Aventures (canoe base)
Departure from Place de l'Eglise and arrival at Impasse du Poun (banks of the Gave d'Oloron).
Duration : 1h30. From 8 years old. Free
Free booklet available at the reception of Sorde Abbey, the Kiwi Valley tourist office, the Sorde Town Hall information point and the 2X Aventures canoe base.
Two hiking trails starting from Sorde are available :
Niert Circuit :
A short trail to discover the mountain stream and Sorde-l'Abbaye. 6.1 km hiking and mountain biking trail.
Gave cliff circuit
Discover the remarkable natural heritage, including the river and natural environments. 7 km walking and mountain biking trail.
Maps are on sale at the abbey reception (Rando guide 5: series of 14 loops in the Pays d'Orthe and Arrigans - €2)
- Playground and City Park : right next to the pelota court and boules pitch, there is a playground for families
- Picnic areas : next to the pelota court and Impasse du Poun (canoe base)
- Au pré du lavoir : very close to the fountain-wash house, a natural area with benches welcomes you for a relaxing break with a view of the abbey.
The Kiwi Valley, a destination to explore
Founded in the 12th century, Arthous Abbey has preserved its Romanesque sculpted décor, among the most beautiful in Gascony. Its permanent exhibition can be explored in three stages: ‘Once upon a time in Arthous’, where the former cells of the canons house the history of the site. The ‘Treasure Room’ is dedicated to sculptures of horses dating back more than 17,000 years, found in the nearby prehistoric shelters of Sorde-l'Abbaye! And the ‘Medieval Sculpture Room’ brings together historical scenes from the western portal of the Church of Sainte-Marie d'Arthous.
Information and reservations :
Wandering around village :
Wandering around Hastingues
An English bastide built on a rocky promontory in the early 14th century, Hastingues is one of the most attractive villages in the Kiwi Valley. Starting from the fortified gate, set off to discover its history and enjoy superb views over the Gaves Réunis plain.
Approximately 1 km
Parcours découverte Hastingues
Wandering around Labatut
Step back in time in Labatut and discover the stories and anecdotes of this Gascon village. To the south of the village, the Lac des Glés is the perfect place to enjoy a break by the water. Approximately 6 km.
Out and about in Misson
A forest trail to discover Misson, a pretty village in bloom (awarded two flowers in the national village flower competition) in the Pays d'Orthe et Arrigans. Along the way, you will discover a park with hundred-year-old oak trees, a peat bog (wetland) of major ecological interest, and an old mill that was first used in the 16th century and has recently been restored. Between 3 et 6 km.
Out and about in Habas
Located on the heights of the Gave de Pau, Habas is a charming village in Chalosse that has managed to maintain its commercial dynamism. Stroll through the village to discover the beautiful houses and illustrious figures that have shaped its heritage and history.
