Looking to get away from it all? The Pyrenees are the perfect destination for a weekend away with your partner, family or friends. Whether you’re looking for thrills, relaxation or cultural discoveries, this region has it all. Victor and I love coming here for our romantic getaways, combining nature, well-being and gourmet delights.
There’s nothing like a climb to the summits to make you feel as close to the sky as possible. In the Haut-Garonne Pyrenees, hiking offers exceptional panoramic views. The Larboust, Oueil and Lys valleys are veritable jewels of unspoilt nature, where the sound of footsteps on the paths mingles with birdsong.
For our first day, we opted for a mythical climb: the Pic de Céciré! In truth, we cheated a little. This iconic peak is accessible from the Luchon-Superbagnères cable car. Once there, all we had to do was climb a few metres on foot to reach our goal. If you want to walk the whole way, every step is a challenge, but the reward is priceless. The panoramic view before us is nothing short of spectacular. Victor whispered to me in amazement:“It’s like being on top of the world. We savoured the moment, lulled by the silence of the mountain.
We wondered how to get back down. And, finally, we said to ourselves: Why not let yourself be carried along by the white water? The torrents of the Saint-Béat-Lez valley are perfect for canoeing or rafting. The laughter and splashing will spice up the adventure. Of course, if you prefer to stay dry, get on a mountain bike or a classic bike and explore the Transgarona trails. Riding along the Garonne, passing through picturesque villages and feeling the wind on your face… it’s the promise of an invigorating getaway.
Adrenalin-seekers won’t be left out in the cold here. The Pyrenees offer an incredible natural playground. Whether you like hiking, climbing, skiing or trail running, every season is an opportunity to take on new challenges.
The hike to Lac d’Oô is one of the must-dos, and a classic. Easily accessible, this trail guides you through dense forest before revealing, like a hidden treasure, a deep blue lake dominated by a 275-metre waterfall. It’s here that we often choose to take a picnic break by the water, enjoying the gentle lapping of the waves and the call of the marmots in the distance (I’m trying to imitate them, but from the look on Victor’s face, I don’t think that’s it…).
If you’re a keen cyclist, you can take on the famous cols of the Tour de France, such as the Col de Peyresourde and the Col de Menté. Victor, a keen cyclist, had a truly proud moment when he reached the top. “It stings the legs, but it’s a real source of pride to get to the top,” he told me, still short of breath but with a smile on his face. Personally, I always prefer the electric-assist bike option. It allows me to enjoy the scenery and keep up with Victor while sparing my efforts.
It’s sometimes hard to choose, but if you like climbing, the rock faces of the Pyrenees are perfect for you! When Victor and I come in the spring, we alternate between climbing on the natural cliffs at Saint-Béat-Lez and the indoor climbing walls at Labroquère. There’s plenty of fun for all ages. In winter, you can indulge in the pleasures of winter sports: skiing, snowshoeing and even airboarding (an inflatable sledge) for thrilling descents.
The Pyrenees aren’t just a sporting arena, they’re also full of cultural treasures. Listed sites, Belle Époque architecture and historic heritage plunge you into another era.
This medieval village, listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, is a real gem. Hand in hand, you’ll love wandering through the cobbled streets. We admire the half-timbered houses and stop in front of the majestic Sainte-Marie cathedral. Victor and I always take the time to visit the cloister, where the atmosphere is one of absolute tranquillity. From the top of the ramparts, the view over the valley is a veritable tableau vivant.
When you come to the Pyrenees, what you love is the combination of nature and culture. From medieval times to the splendours of the Belle Époque, each place is an immersion in history and art.
In Luchon, let yourself be seduced by the Belle Époque facades of the grand hotels and opulent villas lining the Allées d’Étigny. We love imagining the balls of yesteryear in this spa resort popular with the European elite (and Victor and me!).
For a cultural evening out, head for the Théâtre du Casino in Luchon. This Belle Époque gem offers a varied programme of plays, concerts and shows. Another option: a screening at the authentically charming Le Rex cinema, where you can share the screen with the locals in a cosy, warm atmosphere. Don’t miss the exhibitions at the Casino de Barbazan, where local and regional artists display works inspired by the area. Finally, a visit to the bear memorial at Melles will plunge you into the history of this emblematic animal of the Pyrenees, with stories about the local fauna and conservation actions.
A weekend of pampering in the heart of the Pyrenees is an invitation to serenity. And when there’s two of you, it’s even better!
It’s impossible to talk about well-being without mentioning the Luchon thermal baths. Their spa area is a veritable sanctuary of relaxation. The best way to start is to immerse yourself in the famous vaporarium, a natural grotto where sulphurous steam envelops your body in gentle warmth. This steam bath is followed by bubble baths and jet showers to relieve muscular tension. After every minute, you’ll feel so relaxed!
To prolong this moment of indulgence, we always make a stop at the Dardenne chocolate museum. Here, the aromas of cocoa fill the air and tantalise the taste buds. The visit immerses you in the history of this emblematic chocolate from the Pyrenees, known for its organic and gluten-free recipes. You can even watch demonstrations and, of course, taste some of the gourmet creations. A real treat for those who love sweet treats!
What better way to end the day than with a stroll around Lac de Badech in Luchon? This haven of peace, lined with trees and inhabited by a few ducks, is the perfect place for a stroll at the end of the day. The lapping of the water, the reflections of the sun on the surface and the ambient calm are conducive to disconnection. The simple beauty of the surrounding nature is something to behold.
