Discover the natural wonders of the Hautes-Pyrénées

Placed in the top 10 of the best places in the World to observe the sky*, opening up from east to west over 300 km. of mountains (as far as the Massif Central, in the distance), the pic du Midi de Bigorre is a Pyrenean, French, European must-see ... . A major site flirting with 3,000 m. altitude, an incomparable natural balcony, it offers a unique panorama over the local chain and the many other omnipresent mountains, erecting their peaks through the clouds.

The qualities of the air, light and atmosphere specific to the pic enable it to establish itself as a place not only conducive to the practice of numerous sports, but also to resourcing, and astronomical or meteorological research and observation.

As such, the site has become a RICE station (Réserve Internationale du Ciel Etoilé), combining public information on the impact of light pollution with the implementation of responsible lighting in the Hautes-Pyrénées.

The high mountains are not to be outdone in terms of landscapes, especially lakes. The myriad lakes (over 70) and laquettes of the réserve naturelle du Néouvielle are a fine demonstration of this. Imagine for a moment hiking through a harmonious blend of lush vegetation, shades of green, pure pristine water and a deep sky, licking the horizon in an even gradation. The Néouvielle reserve and its lakes offer just such a dreamlike getaway.

The granite rocks and ridges of the area are a playground for all lovers of hiking and exceptional discoveries; at last, here, we open our eyes wide. From a wealth of flora and fauna, to invigorating lung-oxygenating breaks, to the contemplation of a nature that strips itself bare and offers itself to us in respectable modesty, there is, truly, carton plein, for this environment that is the success of our beautiful country.

Although it feels like it, we're not in Canada's far north ... Known as a historic trading point between France and Spain, the natural site of the Pont d'Espagne (~1500 m.) has quickly become the symbol of the entrance to the Hautes-Pyrénées National Park. At the gateway to the spa and winter sports resort Cauterets, the site offers a picture-postcard landscape for walkers: the wildlife (isards, ibexes, marmots ...), the limpid waterfalls, the whole natural infrastructure lend immense tourist power and potential to this frontier environment.

Nearby, the lac de Gaube, the vallée du Marcadau (former "market square") and its Gave, the val de Jéret, pastures and forest areas come together, like elements conducive to a picturesque holiday.