Hiking with Marion on the Toutouriste trail

Do we know each other?We can use ‘you’ informally

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Experience the mountains with your doggy

I’m a huge nature and animal lover. I’ve always been out and about on the trails with my faithful dog, my true adventure partner.

As the seasons change, I explore the most beautiful paths, test out routes and discover the most enjoyable walks for both dogs and humans. Fancy getting some fresh air, discovering magnificent scenery and sharing a special moment of bonding with your dog?

Here are my tips for exploring the mountains with your dog.

Never without my doggie my advice

Get away from it all with your dog in the heart of the countryside

Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the rustling of the leaves beneath your feet and share every moment with your dog… Here, the possibilities for walks are endless. With forests, valleys, scenic trails and paths along the water’s edge, the area is a real playground for all lovers of nature and walking.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, you’re bound to find a route to enjoy with your faithful companion. Every walk is an opportunity to slow down, explore in a different way and create wonderful memories together – whether it’s just the two of you or a group.

However, to preserve this exceptional natural environment, there are a few essential rules to follow. Some routes pass through protected areas, particularly within the National Park, where dogs may be subject to restrictions or even banned in certain sections. In areas where dogs are permitted, keep your dog under control and use a lead when near sensitive areas or livestock.

Respecting nature also means ensuring that everyone – humans, pets and wildlife alike – can enjoy these wide-open spaces to the full.

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The Cross of Saint Justin

Your pet is a predator

Are you getting annoyed by the restrictions on dogs in the core zone of the National Park and in the mountain pastures? Let us explain

Dogs are less predictable when off the lead and love to run riot in the countryside, especially if they live in town for the rest of the year.
They can sometimes carry parasites and worms that aren’t visible, which are transmissible and can lead to the death of wild animals.
Marking with urine or faeces affects local wildlife, particularly the chamois, which avoids areas where it detects the scent of dogs.
Even when chasing as part of play without biting, there is a risk of injury and the loss of protected animals or livestock in shepherds’ flocks: jumps from steep cliffs, miscarriages in females, abandonment of newborns…
The fear caused by barking drives certain species away to areas where grass may be scarce, where they build up their fat reserves in order to survive.
Dogs sometimes destroy the broods of ground-nesting birds such as capercaillies, ptarmigans, hares and marmots.

Text compiled from information gathered from the website pyrenees-parcnational.fr

Do you really know the Patou?

Official name: Mountains of the Pyrenees

Origin: Central Pyrenees

Height: female 65–75 cm, male 70–80 cm

Weight: females 50–59 kg, males 56–64 kg

Appearance: thick, long, whitecoat (sometimes spotted), brown eyes

Life expectancy: 10–12 years

Role: protecting flocks of sheep

Temperament: steady , family-oriented, reserved, devoted, protective, loyal, kind

Needs: wide open spaces

My 6 recommendations as this imposing dog approached

You’re less likely to be attacked by a Patou than to be gored by a cow. Stay calm and follow these recommendations.

Take some notes

1 | Stand still facing him without staring him in the eyes (in dog language, this is tantamount to challenging him).

2 | Place an object between you and the dog without frightening it – your walking stick, for example, if you’re on foot, or your bike.

3 | Let him assess the situation so that he realises it’s not a threat (above all, don’t shout or run)

4 | Stay facing him, as he rarely bites head-on, and do not turn your back on him to prevent him from attacking you by surprise

5 | Speak to him calmly whilst lowering your shoulders (you can also yawn to show him that you’re relaxed)

6 | Let him rejoin the herd by walking away calmly.

Catch the right echo Discover the hidden gems of the blog

If you’re visiting us, it’s to experience the very essence of the Pyrenees from Luz.

And… what could be better than some top tips from the locals to help you reach the heights of excitement?!

As well as some interesting stories, we’ll share our top tips to make your holiday truly memorable.

The Right Echo Hiking with Toutouriste