Photo : Jaipasdepseudo / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Le chemin de la Mâture
The Chemin de la Mâture is a path of about 1,200 metres cut into the cliff of the deep Sescoué (or Secoue) valley, above the Gorges de l'Enfer, in the commune of Urdos, in the Aspe valley. It was dug in the eighteenth century to bring the great firs of the Pyrenean forests to the royal navy's shipyards, where they served as ships' masts.
Today it is a spectacular hiking route along the drop, accessible as a loop from the Pont de Cebers, between Urdos and Borce. Care is needed, and the path is not recommended in wet weather, rain or snow, or with young children.
On the other side of the ravine stands the Fort du Portalet, listed as a historic monument since 2005: a former barracks turned political prison, it notably held prisoners under the Vichy regime. A suspension footbridge over the gorges leads to it; it is currently being restored.
