The Edelweiss garden

At the exit of the gondola, take the same route as the Marmot Lawn walk, taking the almost horizontal track which goes off to the left. Go around the Sarrière chairlift station on the left. Many horses often occupy the lawn. These free-ranging horses belong to transhumant farmers who thus benefit from the grass in the pastures. Everyone has their own grass, herds of cows, horses or sheep do not occupy the same land. Sheep are able to navigate steep slopes, while cows are happy with easier terrain, while horses are often in between.

Cross the lawn and continue to the SnowKfé high-altitude snack bar. Just before the latter, you will find the water reserve for the snow guns in the Cotch sector. You must then go up diagonally to the left towards the edge which borders the track on the left, going up along the edge towards the bottom of the Pène Sarrière ridge. At the top of the wood, simply go under the beech trees, a little towards the rocks which form the heel or the end of the cliff. From there, open your eyes, the Edelweiss are there. But perhaps you have already found some on the slopes at the edge of the woods. Did you know that? In the mountains, the terms "left" and "right" can lead to confusion in explanations. To avoid ambiguity, mountain people use a specific method called orographic sense. This reference system, also used for rivers, is based on orientation according to the natural slope of the land.

It is nicknamed "Snow Star", it is distinguished by its velvety white petals, forming a perfect star. Growing between 1 and 800 meters above sea level, the edelweiss symbolizes purity and courage. In the past, young men climbed cliffs to pick this rare flower as a sign of loving devotion. Protected today to preserve its population, it remains a natural treasure. In addition to its beauty, edelweiss has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, used in cosmetics. Admiring this flower in its natural habitat is a unique moment, here there is no need to climb the peaks to meet this unique species. Did you know? In the Ossau valley for the Laruns celebrations on August 3, men offered their beaus a bouquet of edelweiss as proof of their love.