THINGS TO SEE AND DO
SUMMER: walking, climbing, cycling, downhill mountain biking, canyoning, rafting and swimming in mountain lakes or the local open air eco-pool, chilling in the hammock with a glass of wine.
WINTER: skiing/snowboarding relaxing in the thermal spas, or just getting cozy by the fire .
Local markets, the walled village of St Bertrand de Comminges, ancient caves (Grottes de Gargas), and historic towns Toulouse, Pau and Lourdes.
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SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING
There are several resorts within 1 Hr and 15mins for skiing and snowboarding. Prices are cheaper than the Alps and generally the slopes are quieter. Restaurant prices are reasonable.
Download the N'PY app for details.
La Mongie (I hr 15) n-py.com has good facilities for beginners and advanced, and also has a snow park. Its very pretty once you get away from the main purpose built resort. Close to Aquensis Thermal Spa.
St Lary (1Hr) www.stlary.com
This resort is divided into two parts, St Lary 1700 and St Lary Soulan. Drive to the town at the base and get the cable car up to 1700, or drive a further 15 mins to reach St Lary Soulan 1900 where you take a telecabin to the other ski area. The two link together so you can get one pass to cover the whole domain. A good all round resort for intermediates and above with a snow park.
Piau Engaly (1hr20mins) n-py.com
Piau is another 20 mins drive beyond the town of St Lary. As a higher resort it is often more snow sure and offers a good range of options for all abilities.
Peyragudes (1hr) n-py.com
A good all round resort above the Valle de Louron. Close to Balnea Thermal Spa
Le Mourtis (50 mins) mourtis.fr
A good option for beginners, especially children and families. There is a baby slope close to the carparks and restaurants and beside it is the sledging area. This resort is the lowest of the five so be sure to check it is open before you go.
Nistos (Cap Nestes) (30mins) nistos-ski.fr
The house is directly en route to Nistos, a small cross country ski resort. Usually quiet, with one restaurant/bar, it's a nice change from the downhill resorts and you can also try snow shoeing here too.
CYCLING, TOUR DE FRANCE, MOUNTAIN BIKING
Cycling is very popular here. The Tour de France often passes through the region including ascents over the the Col de Tourmalet, Col d'Aspin amongst others.
Downhill mountain biking (VTT) is possible in Luchon, and Peyragudes ski stations (Hire bikes in Loudenvielle). Lifts and marked descents are available at each of these locations. Paragliding is also very popular in Loudenvielle
TREKKING & CLIMBING
Whether a short walk or more avanced trek or climb you will find plenty to suit every level. The red "Rother Walking Guides" have an excellent range of walks with routes, timings and difficulty ratings clearly explained.
R E F U G E S, C A B I N S &
C A M P I N G
A great way to extend your trek in the mountains is to stay overnight in a mountain refuge. Some are no more than a hut with a bench to put your sleeping bag on and a place to have a fire. Others are fully staffed and equipped with dormitory style bunks, and restaurants etc. You can plan your route to include several refuges and you can ask for a packed lunch as part of your package. It is advisable to book this type of refuge in advance as they can get busy
Some areas permit wild camping. Please check before you go. Dogs are not allowed in certain parts of the National Parks.
**As with all walking in the mountains, make sure you are properly prepared and fully equipped. Weather conditions are unpredictable and can change very quickly.**
H I G H R O P E S,
R A F T I N G &
H O R S E R I D I N G
Visit N'CO park in Lannemezan for high ropes and zip wire. ncopark.com
There are several places for river rafting and horse riding/ pony trekking. We have not investigated these yet. If you do, please tell us all about it!
P I C D U M I D I O B S E R V A T O R Y
The Pic du Midi is accessible via cable car from La Mongie ski resort. Fantastic views on a clear day, plus you can visit the observatory and museum on the summit. Visit Picdumidi.com
T H E R M A L S P A S
A Q U E N S I S & B A L N E A
Aquensis thermal spa is situated in Bagneres de Bigorre (40 min drive) and features a large pool with water jets, whirlpools, saunas, a turkish hammam and roof top hot tubs and saunas.
Balnea is in Loudenville, near Peyragudes ski resort (1hr drive).
Large indoor pool with whirlpools etc, several outdoor hot thermal pools, steam room, jacuzzis, saunas, and great views. balnea.fr
