Carved out of the rock and overlooking the steep cliffs of the “Throats of Hell” gorge, Etsaut is closely linked to the picturesque Chemin de la Mâture (Route of the Masts). This route allowed the Royal Navy to transport logs in the 18th century from the highest mountains of France and the Forest of Pacq for the production of ships’ masts. Opposite this route, the Portalet Fort dominates the main road. Etsaut also has a number of beautiful buildings, such as the Tour des Maures (Tower of the Moors) - a military building dating from the 14th century with thick walls and arrowslits which serves to remind us of the dangers faced by villagers in this part of the Pyrenees. The 16th-century House of the Bear takes its name from the stone bear’s head attached to its façade.

The old station (from the beginning of the 20th century) is a characteristic building made of ashlars, which houses the reception area, exhibition space and projection room for the National Park of the Pyrenees. The riverbanks are landscaped and are perfect for a relaxing walk, especially during the Cheese Festival on the last Sunday in July.