Zoo d’Asson is home to 500 animals from around 100 species—a striking introduction to Asson’s diverse attractions. There is also church art, an Iron Age site, a pilgrimage route and a variety of landscapes. The Grottes de Bétharram are also worth exploring: most of the caves lie in Asson, with another section in Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre. If you’re looking for accommodation in Asson, you can choose your focus based on whether you’re most interested in wildlife, cultural heritage, the pilgrimage route or the landscape.
Zoo and Species Conservation
The exotically landscaped surroundings of Zoo d’Asson provide a setting for animals from around 100 species. Alongside this animal collection, the zoo’s work to protect endangered species is another key aspect: it participates in more than 30 European studbooks and conservation programmes. Asson therefore offers a nature and wildlife focus that encompasses both biodiversity and the preservation of endangered species.
Church Art and History
Saint Martin Church was built in the 16th century in the Flamboyant style of Late Gothic architecture. Inside is a painted wooden triptych from the 15th century, attributed to a Flemish artist. The triptych is therefore older than the church building; its date, style and artistic attribution offer different ways to explore this site.
The Ermitage d’Asson offers a different historical perspective. This archaeological site dates from the Iron Age and is situated on a hill overlooking Asson. Together, the church and the hermitage provide a reason to include both art and architectural history and an archaeological site in your travel plans.
Pilgrimage Route and Cave Experience
The GR 78 runs from Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, passing through Asson. The section described in Asson is 137 kilometres long. This makes the pilgrimage route a separate part of your planning, alongside visits to individual sites. If you include the GR 78, check the specific trail conditions in advance, as they may change.
The Grottes de Bétharram extend across Asson and Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre: most of the caves lie in Asson, with another section in Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre. The visit includes a boat ride on the underground river and a small-train ride along the final 700 metres of the cave. The upper section is accessible to everyone, including wheelchair users. Check the practical arrangements again before you travel.
Landscape, Farm Visit and Getting There
The southern end of the commune is almost entirely forested. In the Ouzom valley, a clearly defined strip of riverside woodland stands out against the open plain. These features show two distinct forms of local vegetation: extensive forest cover in the south and a prominent wooded strip in the valley.
Ferme Sendou offers a guided farm tour with goat milking, a tasting of its goat cheeses and a cheesemaking workshop. Each activity has a different focus: a guided introduction to the farm, a tasting or hands-on cheesemaking. Ask in advance about dates and seasonal conditions, as these may change.
For rail travel, Coarraze Nay is the nearest SNCF train station to Asson. It is five kilometres away and lies on the Hendaye–Toulouse line. Check the timetables separately before finalising your journey.
Discover more destinations: Gelos, Mourenx, Cambo-Les-Bains, Lamayou, Uhart-Cize, Eysus, Escos, Licq-Athérey.
For the regional travel overview: Pyrenees-Atlantiques.
