Between Christmas and New Year, we had a few days free and decided to take a trip to the Pyrenees. It’s true that it’s close to home (1h30 from Toulouse) and yet, caught up in our daily lives, we rarely take the time to get away. With this particularly mild winter, skiing has become more complicated, but we’ve discovered that the mountains are full of other activities.
Sophie and I took the opportunity to learn more about the region and visit its nuggets: Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges Valcabrère and Luchon, the Queen of the Pyrenees. These places boast a rich history and breathtaking scenery, perfect for travellers like us who are looking for authenticity and discovery.
It’s here, at the foot of the mountains, that our cultural escapade begins, in the heart of the majestic town of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, a veritable medieval gem. Listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages, the town has transported us back through the centuries. At the top of the upper town, Sainte-Marie Cathedral stands proudly, offering an uninterrupted view over the valley. This Gothic masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. We enter and admire its Renaissance organ, one of the finest classical organs in Europe, which resounds during the famous Festival du Comminges. Finally, next to the cathedral, we visit the cloister and enjoy a magnificent view of the Pyrenees.
A short distance away, our itinerary continues in Valcabrère with the Saint-Just basilica, another architectural treasure. This village, which was once the ancient site of Lugdunum Convenarum, harbours the remains of a glorious past. The Roman baths, ancient theatre and Saint-Julien chapel all bear witness to this bygone era. We strolled along the ramparts. Sophie fell in love with the charm of the half-timbered houses that tell the story of this multi-faceted city.
Learn more about Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges
For the rest of our stay, we headed for Luchon, “The Queen of the Pyrenees“, with its long-established reputation, to enjoy a different kind of snow! The Luchon-Superbagnères ski resort, directly accessible from Luchon via the Crémaillère Express, offers an exceptional panorama of the Pyrenean peaks. But Luchon is also known for its Belle Époque atmosphere and its spa heritage. There’s no question of getting bored with all the activities and outings on offer! Of course, we tried out the famous thermal baths and discovered the vaporarium, the only one of its kind in Europe. The Allée d’Étigny, lined with century-old plane trees, is an inviting place to stroll, with its bold architecture and cultural events. We spent a pleasant romantic evening at the theatre and then at the casino. No miraculous win, but we had a good laugh!
As you can see, Luchon definitely charmed us. We’ll definitely be back this summer for the Fête des Fleurs, which attracts many visitors every year. Our host also recommended some superb walks in the Vallée du Lys, with the Cascade d’Enfer and the Lac d’Oô. The Pique, Oueil and Larboust valleys promise unforgettable moments. For a more spiritual and contemplative experience, we plan to follow the route of Santiago de Compostela and discover the Hospice de France, the departure point for the Port de Vénasque and the cirque de la Glère.
For hiking enthusiasts, the Via Garona is the perfect way to discover these jewels. This long-distance footpath links Toulouse to Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, with its breathtaking scenery and picturesque villages.
Learn more about Luchon
When we visited the Pyrenees region of Haute-Garonne, we discovered a jewel box of nature and culture. The Grands Sites Occitanie Sud de France, Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges and Luchon, offer a unique panorama of the region’s history and heritage, as well as a host of activities to enjoy all year round. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff or nature enthusiast, these sites promise you total immersion in a timeless universe.
Come and experience a region that delights the senses, in summer and winter alike. The Haut-Garonne Pyrenees are waiting to reveal their best-kept secrets. Sophie is already planning our next trip. Do you want to come along?
