Laruns

Laruns is a commune in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwestern France. It is located in the Ossau Valley, a mountainous region known for its hiking trails and ski resorts.

Laruns serves as a gateway to the Pyrenees National Park and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Key industries include tourism, agriculture, and livestock farming, particularly sheep breeding.

Historically, the Ossau Valley and Laruns have a strong cultural identity, with its own dialect of the Occitan language. The area is known for its traditional architecture, including stone houses with slate roofs. The commune contains various hamlets (localities) dispersed throughout the valley.

Points of interest near Laruns include the Artouste train, a high-altitude railway, and the Lac de Fabrèges, a reservoir and recreation area. The area also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate local traditions and produce.