A cross-country ski rental at La Pierre st Martin is the perfect opportunity to discover the Béarn countryside under the snow, at your own pace. The high plateaus, between 1500 and 1700 m, offer forest-lined trails with superb views of the Pic d'Anie and Soum Couy. Whether you're a beginner in alternating stride or a skating enthusiast, there are green and blue trails to get you started, as well as more sustained loops to work on your endurance.

The best time to take advantage? After a snowfall followed by sunny spells, often in the morning when the snow stays cold and glides well. At the height of winter (December to March), temperatures are cool and sometimes windy in open areas: layers of clothing, warm gloves, neck protectors and sunglasses are essential. In spring, leave early to avoid softening snow.