Discover the French Pyrenees: A Guide to the Top Attractions

The French Pyrenees, a region of awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich history, offers a blend of high-altitude adventures and cultural treasures. From the Hautes-Pyrénées with its rugged trails and ski resorts to the pastoral charm of the Pyrénées-Bernaises, every traveler can find something to love.

Hautes-Pyrénées Highlights

1. Cirque de Gavarnie

The Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a natural amphitheater with towering peaks and Europe's highest waterfall. A gentle walking path from Gavarnie village leads to this breathtaking site, while the Brèche de Roland offers a challenge for seasoned hikers.

2. Lourdes

Lourdes, a major pilgrimage site, is revered for the visions of Saint Bernadette and its miraculous healing waters. The Grotto and the Basilique Notre-Dame du Rosaire are focal points for millions of visitors each year. More information can be found at the official Lourdes website.

3. Saint-Bertrand de Comminges

This medieval town boasts a UNESCO-listed cathedral and hosts the Festival du Comminges, celebrating sacred music in its historic venues.

4. Cauterets

Cauterets, once a Belle Epoque spa town, now attracts visitors for its thermal baths and as a gateway to the Parc National des Pyrénées for skiing and hiking.

5. Grotte du Mas d'Azil

This prehistoric cave, large enough for a road to pass through, offers guided tours and a museum showcasing ancient artifacts.

6. Font-Romeu

Font-Romeu is a sunny destination for skiing and outdoor activities, with a rich religious heritage including the Ermitage de Font-Romeu.

7. Bagnères-de-Bigorre

This spa town in the Vallée du Haut Adour offers rejuvenating thermal baths and a museum showcasing fine arts.

8. Saint-Savin

Saint Savin, known for its Romanesque church, also delights foodies with the renowned Le Viscos restaurant.

9. Luz Saint-Sauveur

This historic town near ski areas offers a modern spa facility and a fortified church with a rich past.

10. Bagnères-de-Luchon

Known for its Roman baths and proximity to ski resorts, Bagnères-de-Luchon is a haven for relaxation and outdoor sports.

11. Tarascon-sur-Ariège

This town is surrounded by a natural park and features a charming Vieille Ville with historical monuments.

12. Grotte de Niaux

The Grotte de Niaux invites visitors to explore prehistoric cave art through guided tours.

13. Foix

Foix, with its medieval castle and museum, offers a glimpse into the region's Cathar history.

14. Montségur

The ruins of Château de Montségur stand as a testament to the Cathar's tragic history.

15. Grand Tourmalet Ski Area

The Grand Tourmalet offers the largest ski domain in the French Pyrenees, with a variety of slopes and stunning views from the Pic du Midi.

Pyrénées-Bernaises Gems

16. Pau

Pau is celebrated for its Renaissance château, the birthplace of King Henry IV, and the picturesque Boulevard des Pyrénées.

17. Oloron Sainte-Marie

This town is famous for its UNESCO-listed cathedral and vibrant Foire du 1er Mai.

18. Sauveterre-de-Béarn

A medieval village with a rich history, Sauveterre-de-Béarn offers serene landscapes and outdoor activities.

19. Eaux-Bonnes

Known for its therapeutic waters, Eaux-Bonnes is a historic spa town surrounded by the Pyrenees.

20. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

A tranquil town on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, it's encircled by ancient fortifications.

21. Moumour

Moumour is home to the Château de Lamothe, a historic residence now serving as a luxurious B&B.

22. Orthez

Orthez, once the capital of Béarn, has a rich Protestant history and medieval architecture.

23. Jurançon Countryside and Montagnes Béarnaises

The Jurançon region is known for its vineyards and the Montagnes Béarnaises offer remote alpine beauty.

24. Monein

Monein is notable for the Eglise Saint-Girons, a church with a remarkable wooden roof structure.