Explore Saint-Engrâce, the Kakuetta gorges and the Verna caves

The starting point for your adventure in the wild landscapes of the Haute-Soule, the small village of Saint-Engrâce, one of the most 'mountainous' in the Pays-basque, is already immersing us in an exotic atmosphere. Situated at an altitude of 630 metres, between lush green peaks, this charming hamlet gives us the exhilarating impression of having travelled thousands of kilometres to land at the end of the world. A visit to thechurch of Sainte-Engrâce, a superb Romanesque building dating back to the 11th century, is a must. With an uninterrupted view over the surrounding countryside, this is a site where the mysteries of the past are keenly felt.

Starting out from Saint-Engrâce, you'll find 7 signposted walks for all levels, lasting from 2 to 7 hours. These trails, which vary in level, allow you to discover the diversity and beauty of the Soule countryside, from majestic canyons to green meadows where sheep graze. For the more experienced hiker, a walk starting from the church will take you to the superb Gorges d'Ehujarre.

When it comes to eating out, be sure to stop off atAUBERGE BERRIEX, a very friendly establishment with an authentic family atmosphere, where you can enjoy excellent local cuisine and a fabulous view of the mountains, all at very reasonable prices (€14.5 for a starter/main course/dessert menu). Special mention must go to the porcini omelette, which is as hearty as it is tasty. The Auberge Berriex is open every day from 8am to 11pm.

It is without doubt one of the most spectacular natural sites in Europe. Formed 80 million years ago and discovered in 1906 by the pioneer of modern speleology Edouard-Alfred Martel, the Gorges de Kakuetta, known until then only to smugglers and a few local farmers, are now open to the eyes of astonished visitors. As you plunge into the lush natural surroundings between the steep rocks with their gushing springs and meander along the white-water rivers, you might think for a moment that you are exploring the Amazon rainforest. Budding adventurers can live their dream to the full!

The hike begins with a sublime view of an emerald-coloured lake, which marks the entrance to the canyon. Following the river, you enter the heart of a dense forest with trees covered in moss and lichen. All at once, the atmosphere becomes mystical. As you slip through the cracks in the earth, you seem to have entered a parallel world, on the edge of fantasy, where nature lives by its own laws. As if to pay homage, dozens of visitors have erected a succession of cairns at the entrance to the Gorges, giving the place an almost sacred dimension.

After a short tunnel cut into the rock, the walk continues on footbridges. You walk along rock faces where springs plunge into the river, producing enchanting sounds that mingle with the rustling of the trees. Take a deep breath and soak up the powerful scents of humus and chlorophyll.

The canyon then widens, in places forming natural pools of translucent water illuminated by the sun's rays that pierce through the branches, adding to the mysterious aura of the Gorges. This is followed by the apotheosis of a sumptuous 20-metre-high waterfall that marks the end of the canyon. The walk ends with the Grotte des lacs, a vast cavity decorated with impressive stalactites. During this magical walk, don't forget to look up occasionally to watch the hypnotic ballet of a vulture or golden eagle circling above the Gorges.

Near Saint-Engrâce, another magical site is waiting to be discovered! The Grottes de la Verna, located in the heart of the Gouffre de la Pierre Saint-Martin, are one of the largest underground networks accessible to the public. Discovered in 1950, the caves boast an impressive river bubbling between the rocks, as well as the largest lit underground chamber in the world, offering a breathtaking, vertiginous view.

To explore this captivating world, you'll be accompanied by professional cavers, and there are several choices of visits to suit your tastes. If you're feeling adventurous, you can explore the area by combining hiking and climbing. But you can also take a guided tour with a guide who will tell you fascinating anecdotes about the geology and history of the Verna caves. With family or friends, get ready for a grandiose adventure in the bowels of the earth.