The Little Artouste Train

In the summer, this tiny railway provides an unforgettable trip. The Little Artouste Train trundles along its route high in the mountains. At more than 2000m altitude it is one of the highest in Europe and was built in 1924 to take workers to the construction site of the hydro-electric dam at Lake Artouste. The diesel locomotives rattles along high up the side of an untouched valley on a narrow gauge track for 10km and along its route offers spectacular panoramic views over the Ossau Mountains and the Soussouéou valley.

The whole excursion is an eventful one:
Starting in the Ossau valley the first port of call on the journey is Fabrèges Lake. From a base of 1200m a cable car whisks you up the mountain for a 15 minute ride up the Col de la Sagette where the station is located. From here, you join the open-top ‘Little Train’ to enjoy the hour long scenic journey. Occasionally a shepherd will hitch a lift on the way to one of the flocks that graze precariously on the mountain.

On arrival you have the chance to stretch your legs and take the short 10-15 minute walk along marked paths to the Artouste Lake. At 1989m altitude it spreads out at the foot of some of the highest peaks in the Pyrenees Atlantiques. After an hour to relax and admire the scenery, the train moves back to the Col de la Sagette for the onward descent via the cable car back to Fabrèges Lake. Alternatively, why not book a later return train ticket and take some time to stroll in the mountains. You can choose your hour of return if later trains are not fully booked.

An excellent family day out, providing the chance to discover two of the more unusual modes of transport amongst spectacular scenery.

Contact The Little Artouste Train:

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Address :	64440 Artouste-Fabrèges
Telephone :	+33 (0)559 053699