Saint Jean Tour
22nd to 29th June 2005

Difficulty Level 2
Price: £535 per person without flight

The celebration of St Jean is the official start of summer in the Biros valley. On the evening of the 23rd June we are invited to a feast with the local shepherds, then a fire is lit as a tribute to the summer sun and young couples dance to a haunting music just like they have done for centuries. We will join in these festivities and learn more about Pyrenean pastoralism and the way of life in this remote high mountain area of the Couserans. As we explore the mountains behind the valleys of Biros and Bethmal we will meet shepherds working with their flocks, learn about the Patou dogs, the brown bears, and the varied flora & fauna. There will be an opportunity to savour local delicacies at organic farms such as a visit to a sorbet & jam producer, and a cheese factory.