The area around Luchon-Superbagnères is bursting with activities and breathtaking scenery. Here, the mountains come alive, changing with the seasons. The winter snows give way to the bright green of summer, while autumn and spring reveal flamboyant colours. Every time of year is an invitation to adventure, whether sporting, contemplative or cultural. So, what are you going to do on your next trip around Luchon-Superbagnères?
Located just a few kilometres from Luchon, the Hospice de France is an emblematic site in the region. Once a stopover for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela, it now hosts exhibitions on local history and life in the mountains. It is also a popular starting point for a number of hikes, particularly to high altitude lakes and the passes on the Spanish border.
The Pyrenean villages around Luchon-Superbagnères, such as Garin, Cierp-Gaud and Saint-Mamet, offer an immersion in local authenticity. Their stone houses and slate roofs tell the story of mountain life. These villages are also the perfect place to sample local specialities: farmhouse cheeses, spit-roasted cakes and other local delights.
Spring reveals trails that are still wet from the melting snow, but incredibly rich. The Lys and Oueil valleys are adorned with wild flowers and the waterfalls are bursting with water. This is the best time to admire the Enfer waterfall, one of the most impressive in the region. The hiking trails become more accessible, particularly those leading to Lac d’Oô, Lac d’Espingo and Lac du Portillon, where the wildlife is starting to become more active.
In spring, isards, marmots and birds of prey are back in action. Nature-watchers will be able to spot these animals at the bend in a path or on a ridge. A good vantage point for this is the Bacanère peak, accessible after a good hike. From the heights, it’s not uncommon to spot red kites or griffon vultures soaring overhead.
Fauna and flora
In summer, the peaks are revealed in all their splendour. Hiking to the lakes of Oô, Espingo and Portillon is a must. These high-altitude gems offer landscapes worthy of the most beautiful postcards. Access to these lakes is via trails of varying difficulty, perfect for a family outing or for more experienced hikers.
The trails around Luchon-Superbagnères are an ideal playground for mountain runners. Every summer, the Luchon Aneto Trail brings together athletes from all over the world. But even outside the event, you can try your hand at trail running on routes suited to your level. Short or long runs, the effort is amply rewarded by the beauty of the panoramas.
Get on a downhill mountain bike or try out an all-terrain scooter on the trails in the surrounding valleys. Fun descents await you, with signposted routes winding through the forests of the Oueil and Larboust val leys. There are plenty of equipment hire companies close to Luchon, with the option of trying out electric mountain bikes for a gentle ride up the slopes.
From September to October, the forest resounds with the calls of deer in search of their herd. Watching the stags bellow is a unique experience. Supervised by nature guides, twilight outings allow you to listen to and observe these moments of animal intensity. The forests of the Vallée du Lys and the Vallée d’Oueil are prime spots for observing this impressive phenomenon.
In autumn, the forests of the Pyrenees take on fiery hues. The paths in the Vallée du Lys and on the Pic de Céciré are covered in red, orange and golden leaves. The air becomes cooler, but the days are still ideal for mid-mountain hikes. The summits offer uninterrupted views of the Pyrenees, often under clear skies.
Luchon-Superbagnères is famous for its slopes, but the resorts of Peyragudes and Le Mourtis are also within easy reach for a variety of activities. These areas offer a variety of slopes and an ideal environment for families. The more adventurous can also try their hand at ski touring, a sport that allows you to climb isolated peaks before enjoying a wild descent.
Put on your snowshoes and set off to discover the snow-covered forests. The routes are accessible to all, from the Lys and Oueil valleys or around Cierp-Gaud. This quiet moment is also an opportunity to observe the tracks left by wild animals in the immaculate snow.
For an unforgettable adventure, let yourself be guided by a pack of sled dogs. The snow-covered forests are revealed in a whole new way from the sled. This activity, which is accessible to all, is a magical moment to enjoy with your family or as a couple. The rides are supervised by passionate mushers who will help you discover the fascinating world of Nordic dogs.
