The Gorges de Kakuetta
Set your own pace to fully enjoy the many charms of Kakuetta. It is one of the wildest and most legendary sites in Europe. On this walk, you’ll follow well-maintained paths and footbridges with handrails. You don’t need to be experienced to venture in. Take advantage of your stay at Camping Beau Rivage to explore the Gorges de Kakuetta, just 55 minutes away. A guaranteed change of scenery!
The Gorges de Kakuetta: a natural wonder
The Gorges de Kakuetta were discovered by Edouard-Alfred Martel in 1906. At that time, he was known as the pioneer of modern speleology. He discovered many sites, caves and underground rivers around the world. Located at Sainte-Engrâce in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, the Kakuetta gorges feature lush, abundant vegetation. This is mainly due to the area’s tropical climate. The site reaches a depth of 350 metres. Don’t hesitate to explore the waterfall with its 20-metre drop. You’ll find a small path leading to a magnificent lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in Béarn. At this point, you still can’t imagine what awaits. Step into the shoes of a great explorer with your loved ones. At the heart of the Gorges de Kakuetta, you’ll find yourself between two mountains. Take in lungfuls of fresh air. It’s important to note that swimming and fishing are forbidden.
A magical family hike through the tropical jungle
Arriving at the Bar de la Cascade, the hike begins with a 4 km round-trip circuit. To reach the Bentia mound, the trail descends to a lake with crystal-clear waters. Here, the gentleness of the Atlantic climate and the depth of the gorges maintain a high humidity level. In this cool atmosphere, a strange and mysterious world unfolds before you.
Then the river guides you through an immense earthly scar, notably the temple dedicated to Mother Nature. This cluster of cairns piques visitors’ curiosity. The hundreds of mounds give the area a mystical atmosphere. Locals of the Soule region believe that stones hold a memory, a soul and a truth. As you walk along the river, you’ll encounter a short tunnel, superb geological formations, glacier melt and natural pools with translucent waters. Towards the end of the route, a 20-metre waterfall offers a breathtaking show. A true open-air gallery!
The famous Grotto of the Lakes
Accessible via a small steep path, the Kakuetta grotto is adorned with giant stalactites and stalagmites. Of medium size, this hidden treasure continues to attract many visitors. Beware: the path is very slippery. Sturdy shoes are strongly recommended. Also remember to dress warmly — it’s always cooler at the bottom of the Kakuetta gorges. However, you cannot go any deeper. Due to its fragility, the rest of the grotto is reserved for speleologists. Discovering this magical place gives unforgettable feelings of wonder to share with family or friends. Let yourself be inspired by this majestic grandeur and contemplate the magic of the depths of the earth.
The Gorges de Kakuetta are currently temporarily closed!
