Between the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the first snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees, the Aldudes Valley is a jewel that has remained untouched since the dawn of time. It weaves along the river between the steep mountains and passes through three villages: Banca, Les Aldudes and Urepel. Around a bend, a farmhouse with oxblood red shutters typical of the region is revealed, a flock of sheep with their shepherd enjoying the breathtaking view of the surrounding hills. Time doesn’t seem to have much control over the civilized world in this region, but the Basque coast is only an hour away.
Pascal Arcé, chef and owner of the Arcé Hotel-Restaurant, a child of the country, has followed its evolution. “The valley has had its ups and downs. Fifty years ago, tourism was dynamic. Spending your holidays here was fashionable, then tourists became less and less until ten years ago it found a second wind…
Source: Le Figaro
