Where to Stay in the French Pyrenees

Best Areas to Stay in When Visiting the French Pyrenees

The French Pyrenees, with their diverse landscapes, charming villages, and range of activities, offer several excellent areas for visitors to stay. Each area provides unique experiences, from cultural and historical explorations to outdoor adventures.

Lourdes

Lourdes is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world, known for the Marian apparitions of 1858. It's a hub for religious tourism, but also offers access to the natural beauty of the Pyrenees.

• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes: Visit the famous grotto, basilicas, and baths.

• Cultural and Historical Sites: Explore the Château fort de Lourdes and the museums.

• Proximity to Nature: Easy access to hiking trails and natural attractions like the Cirque de Gavarnie.

Accommodation

• Luxury: Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres, offering a blend of historical charm and modern amenities.

• Mid-Range: Hôtel Sainte-Rose, a comfortable option close to the sanctuary.

• Budget: Hôtel du Commerce et de Navarre, a budget-friendly choice with basic amenities.

Gavarnie Valleys

Gavarnie is renowned for its breathtaking natural amphitheaters, including the UNESCO-listed Cirque de Gavarnie. It’s a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Cirque de Gavarnie: Famous for its dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.

• Cirque de Troumouse and Estaubé: Less crowded but equally beautiful.

• Hiking: Numerous trails of varying difficulty.

Accommodation

• Luxury: Hôtel le Marboré, offering stunning views and upscale amenities.

• Mid-Range: Hôtel Vignemale, a charming hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location.

  
  

Cauterets

Cauterets is a charming spa town and a gateway to some of the most scenic hiking trails and ski slopes in the Pyrenees.

• Thermal Baths: Les Bains du Rocher, perfect for relaxation.

• Pont d’Espagne: A picturesque area with waterfalls and hiking trails.

• Skiing: Reliable snow conditions and a variety of slopes.

Accommodation

• Luxury: Hôtel-Résidence Le Lys, offering modern amenities and spa facilities.

  
  

Saint-Lary-Soulan

Saint-Lary-Soulan is a popular ski resort and spa town, making it a great choice for both winter sports and summer activities.

• Skiing and Snowboarding: One of the largest ski areas in the Pyrenees.

• Thermal Spa: Sensoria Rio, offering a range of wellness treatments.

• Summer Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding.

Accommodation

• Luxury: Mercure Sensoria de Saint-Lary-Soulan, featuring luxurious rooms and a full-service spa.

• Mid-Range: Hôtel Les Arches, offering comfortable accommodations and great amenities.

• Budget: Chalet-Hôtel Les Sorbiers, a budget-friendly choice with easy access to the slopes.

Ax-les-Thermes

Ax-les-Thermes is known for its natural thermal springs and ski resort, making it a great destination for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

• Thermal Baths: Les Bains du Couloubret, featuring indoor and outdoor pools.

• Skiing: Ax 3 Domaines, offering diverse slopes.

• Hiking and Cycling: Scenic trails and routes in the surrounding area.

Accommodation

• Luxury: Le Chalet Hotel, offering luxurious rooms and spa services.

• Mid-Range: Hôtel Restaurant Le Bellevue, a comfortable hotel with great amenities.

• Budget: Résidence Pierre & Vacances Les Trois Domaines, an affordable option for families and groups.

Foix and Ariège

Foix, with its medieval castle and rich history, is a great base for exploring the cultural and natural attractions of the Ariège region.

• Château de Foix: A well-preserved medieval castle with stunning views.

• Historical Sites: Visit the old town and local museums.

• Outdoor Activities: Caving, hiking, and cycling in the Ariège region.

Accommodation

• Luxury: Hôtel du Lac Foix, offering beautiful views and upscale amenities.

• Mid-Range: Hôtel Lons, a charming hotel in the heart of Foix.

  
  

Bagnères-de-Luchon

Bagnères-de-Luchon, also known as Luchon, is a historic spa town and gateway to the Pyrenees.

• Thermal Spa Experiences: Enjoy various thermal baths and wellness treatments available in the town.

• Hiking and Skiing: Luchon-Superbagnères offers excellent slopes and trails.

• Festivals: The Festival of Flowers in August is a major event.

Accommodation

• Luxury: Hôtel Spa les Lilas, offering luxurious rooms and spa services.

• Mid-Range: Hôtel Panoramic, a comfortable hotel with great views.

• Budget: Résidence Illixon, an affordable option for families and groups.

Pic du Midi de Bigorre

Pic du Midi de Bigorre is famous for its observatory and panoramic views, making it a unique destination for stargazing and outdoor activities.

• Observatory: Visit the astronomical observatory and museum.

• Hiking: Trails leading to and from Pic du Midi offer stunning views.

• Paragliding: Popular for tandem flights.