guide
On the edge of the Pyrenees National Park, the Hautes-Pyrénées unfold the Cirque de Gavarnie, described by Victor Hugo as the "Colosseum of nature", alongside the Pic du Midi peaks and the Cathar castle of Montségur. Skiing, spa treatments and outdoor sports such as canyoning or paragliding shape a mountain stay combining heritage and fresh air.
On the edge of the Pyrenees National Park, come and discover an exceptional setting and mountainous scenery. In this majestic atmosphere, characterful bastides, villages and charming monuments blend together to offer visitors a complete change of scenery. The Hautes-Pyrénées form an exceptional natural border, offering breathtaking panoramas as far as the eye can see. In this article, discover the best places to explore and the activities to try during your stay.
These mountains form an exceptional territory to discover. On the border with Spain, these beautiful mountain ranges will enchant lovers of wild nature, charming villages and characterful monuments alike. To fully enjoy this authentic setting and its admirable grandeur, you can choose to stay at one of the luxury campsites in the Hautes-Pyrénées. It would be a great starting point for visiting the region’s must-see spots.
Described as the “Colosseum of nature” by Victor Hugo, this impressive spot is surrounded by 16 peaks over 3,000 m high. Its countless silvery waterfalls create a magnificent landscape bordering on the magical. The Cirque de Gavarnie was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. This natural amphitheatre is part of the Pyrenees National Park.
Made up mainly of the Pic de Bigorre and the Pic d’Ossau, these mountains form an exceptional natural balcony. The first is part of the Pyrenean range, with its highest point at 2,877 m. The second is located in the Ossau valley. Their altitude makes them an ideal spot for astronomical observation, letting starry-sky lovers enjoy the magic of this place after every dusk.
Built at an altitude of 1,207 m, this castle is a stronghold of Catharism. Visiting this site and its museum is a chance to discover the tragic history of this citadel in the Ariège. This monument can be visited all year round, except in January.
This region owes its charm to its blend of beaches, mountains and forests. This exceptional natural setting offers a backdrop perfect for adventure. Choose to stay at one of its upmarket campsites to indulge in every possible activity.
The Pyrenean range is full of ski resorts ready to welcome skiers of every level. You can mix things up between snowboarding, sledging, skiing… All types of gliding sports take centre stage in this area.
The Pyrenean spa towns are highly recommended for enjoying a moment of relaxation. After a long day of hiking or a session of skiing, you can treat yourself to the treatments on offer at these establishments.
Are you an adventurer looking for thrilling experiences? Countless options are available to you in the Hautes-Pyrénées. This region is an exceptional playground to explore by sea, land or air. It can be visited by mountain bike, paraglider or canyoning. It’s also possible to opt for a dog-sledding trip to discover the richness of this fascinating land. Ice diving is also on the menu of pleasures this area has to offer.
It has been on the Unesco World Heritage list since 1997.
It's open for visits all year, except in January.
It stands at 2,877 metres, making it a prime spot for astronomical observation.
Mountain biking, paragliding, canyoning and even dog-sledding are among the activities on offer.
