High Pyrenees

Discover the Hautes-Pyrénées, one of the region's jewels OccitanieThis department, located in southwest France, is an enchanting mix of natural landscapes, cultural richness and history. With 469 communes and a population of 230,600 on January 1, 2023, the department promises unforgettable adventures for explorers and holidaymakers alike. Tarbes, the prefecture, is the perfect starting point for exploring such wonders as the ski resorts, the Gavarnie cirque, Lourdes and Bagnères-de-Bigorre. The region is famous for its tourist sites, notably the Pic du Midi and the sanctuaries of Lourdes, and is a magnet for spa resorts and second homes, which account for 23 % of housing units. This article will guide you through the unmissable landscapes, cultural and historical heritage, and gastronomy of the Hautes-Pyrénées, for a rich and memorable experience.

Discovering must-see landscapes

Pyrenees National Park

Founded in 1967, the National Park des Pyrénées is a natural treasure nestled on the border between France and Spain, covering the Hautes-Pyrénées and Pyrénées-Atlantiques regions. One of France's eight national parks, it preserves a vast portion of the Pyrenees mountain range and is famous for its remarkable biodiversity and breathtaking scenery. It boasts majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, refreshing waterfalls, dense forests and spectacular cliffs. Natural cirques such as the Cirque de Gavarnie and the Cirque de Troumouse offer exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Major natural sites

The Hautes-Pyrénées region is home to some exceptional natural sites that attract visitors from all over the world. The Cirque de Gavarnie, famous for its impressive circular cliff wall, is particularly emblematic. An easy stroll from the village of Gavarnie leads to this site, a must for all nature lovers. The Pic du Midi, culminating at 2,877 meters, offers spectacular panoramic views of the Pyrenees and is renowned for its astronomical observatory, perfect for stargazing. The Campan valley is also prized for its diverse landscapes and charming villages such as Sainte-Marie-de-Campan, attracting hikers and nature lovers alike.

Nature activities

The Hautes-Pyrénées is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Pyrenees National Park offers a multitude of hiking trails, from quiet strolls in the valleys to more arduous challenges such as the GR10, crossing the Pyrenees over 887 km. Winter sports are also well catered for, with ski resorts such as Saint-Lary-Soulan, Luz-Saint-Sauveur and Cauterets offering pistes to suit all abilities. For more tranquil pursuits, lakes and rivers invite you to go fishing or boating, while the thermal baths of Bagnères-de-Bigorre and Luz-Saint-Sauveur offer relaxation and well-being in sublime natural surroundings.

Exploring our cultural and historical heritage

Charming towns and villages

In the Hautes-Pyrénées, a multitude of charming villages and towns offer a unique heritage. The historic town of Arreau was an important administrative, political and judicial center in the Middle Ages. Its Château des Nestes, a former seat of justice from the 16th to the mid-18th century, is a remarkable example. Bagnères-de-Bigorre also boasts a fine arts museum and a rich architectural heritage, including the Château Fort de Lourdes and the Château des Comtes de Comminges at Bramevaque. The Aure and Louron valleys, classified as Pays d'Art et d'Histoire, preserve an authentic rural heritage with historic fountains and washhouses, such as the Azereix washhouse.

Religious heritage and pilgrimages

The Hautes-Pyrénées is also famous for its religious heritage and pilgrimage sites. Lourdes, one of the most visited towns in France, is a world pilgrimage center for Christians, attracting millions of faithful each year thanks to its sanctuary, churches and holy water fountains. Churches and chapels scattered throughout the valleys and villages, such as Saint-Germé d'Ilhan in Bordères-Louron and Notre-Dame de Bourisp, bear witness to the region's rich religious history.

Local festivals and events

The Hautes-Pyrénées has a vibrant cultural life, with a wide range of local festivals and events. Tarbes, the prefecture, is famous for its Festival de Tarbes Tango, a unique celebration of tango music and dance. The Festival de Cinéma Muet in Saint-Lary-Soulan, offering silent films set to live music, and events such as Jazz in Luz-Saint-Sauveur and the Equestria Festival d'Équitation in Tarbes, enrich the region's cultural and sporting calendar.

Gastronomy and specialities of the Hautes-Pyrénées

Presenting local products

Richness and diversity are the hallmarks of gastronomy of the Hautes-Pyrénées, which showcases high-quality local products. Among them, the cochon noir de Bigorre stands out, a breed of pig famous for its delicate, flavorful meat. The latter is often featured in Bigorre ham, which has benefited from a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) since 2015. Cheese also holds a special place in this region, with specialties such as Tomme des Pyrénées, an uncooked pressed or semi-pressed cheese, protected by a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) since 1996. Ossau-Iraty, an uncooked sheep's milk cheese, has also enjoyed great popularity, and has been protected by a PDO since 1996. Local fruits and vegetables also feature prominently, notably the sweet onion from Trébons, cultivated since the 18th century and appreciated for its mild taste and low crying capacity. Tarbais beans, characterized by their thin skin and subtle flavor, are often incorporated into traditional recipes such as garbure, a soup rich in vegetables and meat.

The best gourmet addresses

The Hautes-Pyrénées is home to many places where you can enjoy local specialties. In Tarbes, restaurants such as UP2Play offer a diverse and convivial cuisine. In Bagnères-de-Bigorre, Le Schuss invites you to enjoy a warm and welcoming experience with regional dishes. The restaurant Le Brasero in Argelès-Gazost serves generous cuisine inspired by the South-West, while Le Hautacam in Beaucens offers a varied menu, including daily specials and homemade desserts. Establishments such as Hôtel Mercure Peyragudes-Loudenvielle in Loudenvielle offer local specialities in their restaurants, combining gastronomic pleasure with relaxation.

Unique culinary experiences

The Hautes-Pyrénées is the setting for some unique culinary experiences, such as gâteau à la broche, a traditional dessert prepared for special occasions. Its cooking method, in which the pastry is baked over a fire in a conical mold, makes it an emblematic specialty. Garbure, a traditional soup based on vegetables and meat, varies according to the season and available ingredients, offering a truly authentic taste journey. Pyrenean fondues, with their original touch of Pyrenean tomme, represent a culinary experience in their own right, perfect for comforting yourself after a day's skiing or hiking.

Conclusion

The Hautes-Pyrénées offers a unique and memorable adventure for adventurers and holidaymakers alike. From breathtaking natural vistas to a rich cultural and historical heritage, not to mention delectable local gastronomy, every facet of this region is an invitation to discover. From snow-capped peaks and picturesque villages to sacred sites steeped in history and culinary delights, the Hautes-Pyrénées has something for everyone. Don't delay in organizing your getaway to explore the treasures of this region. Whether your quest is for adventure in nature, immersion in culture or simply a moment of relaxation in exceptional surroundings, the Hautes-Pyrénées promises an unforgettable stay. Discover this French jewel and enjoy an extraordinary experience.

FAQ

What is the largest town in the Hautes-Pyrénées?

Tarbes, the capital of the Hautes-Pyrénées department, is the region's largest city. Compared with other communes, it is distinguished by its large population.

What are the different valleys in the Hautes-Pyrénées?

The Hautes-Pyrénées department in southwest France is renowned for its remarkable valleys. These include the Aure valley, the Louron valley, the Neste valley, the Campan valley and the Cauterets valley. These valleys offer exceptional scenery and a wide range of tourist activities.

What do we call the inhabitants of the Hautes-Pyrénées?

Residents of the Hautes-Pyrénées are known as Bigourdans, a term derived from the town of Tarbes, often seen as the capital of the department and the historic region of Bigorre.

Where to walk in the 65?

The Hautes-Pyrénées département (65) is packed with places to stroll. Lovers of hiking and outdoor activities will be delighted to discover the Pyrenees, while picturesque valleys such as the Vallée du Louron or the Vallée d'Aure invite exploration. Charming mountain villages such as Saint-Lary-Soulan and Cauterets are also well worth a visit. The department's lakes and rivers offer great opportunities for soothing walks and fishing sessions.