Lac du Gabas
A serene artificial lake in the Pyrénées Atlantiques, offering scenic walks, water sports, and stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Lac du Gabas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene artificial lake in the Pyrénées Atlantiques, offering scenic walks, water sports, and stunning mountain views.
"This lake gives a good breath of fresh air when you want to walk quietly, preferably in good weather."
🚶♀️ Scenic 11km Loop
Enjoy the full 11km walk around the lake for immersive views.
🚗 Park Smartly
Be cautious with parking near the function room to avoid damage to your car.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 11km Lake Loop
Around Lac du Gabas
A scenic and largely shaded walk offering stunning Pyrenean views. Perfect for a refreshing escape.
Pyrenean Panorama
Various points around the lake
Breathtaking views of the Pyrenees mountains, especially on clear days.
Nautical Club Activities
Lac du Gabas Nautical Club
The largest nautical club in the region offers various water sports, though swimming is prohibited.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for a Peaceful Stroll
Parking and Access Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Scenic 11km Loop
Enjoy the full 11km walk around the lake for immersive views.
🚗 Park Smartly
Be cautious with parking near the function room to avoid damage to your car.
🐶 Leash Your Dogs
Respect regulations and keep dogs on a leash to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Swimming is prohibited due to the lake's private status and irrigation purposes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Scenic 11km Loop
Enjoy the full 11km walk around the lake for immersive views.
🚗 Park Smartly
Be cautious with parking near the function room to avoid damage to your car.
🐶 Leash Your Dogs
Respect regulations and keep dogs on a leash to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Swimming is prohibited due to the lake's private status and irrigation purposes.
🛶 Water Sports Access
A FFCK license is required for activities like paddling and sailing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lac du Gabas for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery, especially the 11km loop walk offering magnificent Pyrenean views. While the natural setting is a major draw, some find a lack of diverse sporting activities around the lake. Parking safety and dog control are minor concerns for some.
"This lake gives a good breath of fresh air when you want to walk quietly, preferably in good weather... the tour is 11km and offers a view of the lake that is simply magnificent. A small negative point is that there is nothing around the lake in terms of sporting or attractive activities, which is a shame... you can go boating which gives you a total immersion on the lake... I recommend this place which is very good for clearing your head..."
Hamelet Teddy
"A beautiful walk.
Two routes are available: one 45-minute walk and one just over two hours long.
The scenery is magnificent and the trail is largely shaded.
No physical difficulty.
A beautiful location.
Free parking. Several locations to access each route.
Splendid views of the Pyrenees."
Claude IKEBANA
"Magnificent venue.
It's best to park near the function room if you don't want to find your car damaged.
Be careful."
Sandrine Torres
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lac du Gabas is located in the Vallée d'Ossau in the Pyrénées Atlantiques. Access is generally straightforward, with free parking available.
Yes, there is free parking available. However, it's advised to be cautious about where you park, especially near the function room, as there have been reports of car damage.
In winter, the road may be closed further up, potentially limiting access to areas like Gabas itself, especially if heading towards higher altitudes like Bious Artigues.
While the main trail is easy and shaded, it can be complicated for people with reduced mobility. However, there are some accessible spots.
The trail around the lake is described as fairly flat and suitable for biking, offering a pleasant way to explore the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Lac du Gabas and its surrounding trails is generally free, including parking.
While the lake itself is free to access, specific activities at the nautical club may have associated fees or require membership.
As a natural site, Lac du Gabas is accessible year-round. However, specific facilities like the nautical club will have their own operating hours.
The walking trails around Lac du Gabas are free to use.
Yes, the Salle du Lac du Gabas in Lourenties is available for events like weddings and parties, with decoration services offered. 
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, cycling around the lake, and various water sports at the nautical club. Picnicking and enjoying the scenery are also popular.
No, swimming is prohibited in Lac du Gabas as it's a private lake used for irrigation and flood prevention.
Dogs are allowed, but it's crucial to keep them on a leash and under control, as per regulations, to avoid disturbing others and wildlife.
There are different routes, including a 45-minute walk and a longer one that takes just over two hours, with the full loop being approximately 11km.
While not explicitly detailed, the presence of a function room and the popularity for picnics suggest some basic facilities are available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no specific mentions of restaurants or cafes directly at the lake. It's recommended to bring your own food for picnics.
Yes, Lac du Gabas is a great spot for picnics, with designated areas and beautiful surroundings.
Dining options would likely be found in nearby towns like Laruns or in the broader Vallée d'Ossau.
Information on food and drink availability at the nautical club is not readily available, so it's best to come prepared.
Yes, the Salle du Lac du Gabas can host events, and catering or specific food arrangements would need to be discussed with the venue or an event planner.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of the Pyrenees, the lake itself, and the surrounding nature offer excellent photography opportunities.
Absolutely, the combination of water, mountains, and lush greenery makes it a prime location for landscape photographers.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
The trail around the lake offers numerous viewpoints, and there's also a 'table d'orientation' (orientation table) for panoramic shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack picnic essentials as dining options are limited. It's also crucial to keep dogs on a leash to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Consider exploring beyond the immediate lake loop for more challenging hikes, such as those leading to higher altitudes like the Lac du Gabas, Vallée de la Fruitière Cauteret at 2350m, which involves a significant elevation gain and distance.
Always check weather conditions and be prepared with appropriate gear, especially if venturing onto more demanding routes. 📸 Photographers
The interplay of water, mountains, and lush vegetation creates a captivating landscape. Don't miss the chance to capture the reflections on the lake's surface and the details of the surrounding flora. The orientation table also provides a unique vantage point for sweeping vistas.
Remember to be mindful of any drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails Around Lac du Gabas
For those seeking a shorter excursion, there are options like a 45-minute walk or a route that takes just over two hours. While the main paths are generally easy and flat, making them suitable for walking or cycling, some sections might present challenges for individuals with reduced mobility. However, efforts have been made to ensure some areas are accessible to everyone.
When planning your hike, especially in winter, be prepared for potentially icy conditions. Some TikTok videos suggest carrying crampons and poles for winter ascents, indicating that the trails can become slippery and require appropriate gear for safety.
Water Activities and Regulations
It's important to note that swimming is prohibited at Lac du Gabas. This is due to its status as a private lake managed by the Institute Adour for irrigation, low-water control, and flood prevention. Consequently, specific regulations are in place to manage its use.
For those interested in paddling or sailing, a FFCK license (Fédération Française de Canoë-Kayak et Sports d'Eau Vive) and membership in the Pau club are required. This ensures that participants are properly certified and adhere to safety standards.
The Role of the Salle du Lac du Gabas
+1Event planners and decorators can transform the space with various themes, such as voilage (draping), starry skies, ivy garlands, and Chinese lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere for celebrations.
While the lake itself is a destination for outdoor activities, the Salle du Lac du Gabas provides a space for social gatherings and celebrations, adding another dimension to the Lac du Gabas experience.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit