The Pyrenees, a majestic mountain range straddling the border between France and Spain, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and charming towns. This guide will provide detailed information on how to get to the Pyrenees, where to stay, tips for visiting nearby towns, and recommendations for excursions in the area.
How to Get to the Pyrenees in
Andorra / Spain / France
Pyrenees Mountains Geographical Location
The Pyrenees stretch approximately 491 kilometers (305 miles) from the Bay of Biscay to the Mediterranean Sea, forming a natural border between France and Spain. The highest peak, Aneto, stands at 3,404 meters (11,168 feet).
The Pyrenees Mountains: Hotels, Best towns & Places to Stay map, reviews, facilities and prices >>
The Pyrenees By Air
There are several airports close to different parts of the Pyrenees:
- Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS): Located in southwestern France, about 150 kilometers (93 miles) from the central Pyrenees.
- Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN): Located in northeastern Spain, about 200 kilometers (124 miles) from the eastern Pyrenees.
- Pau Pyrénées Airport (PUF): Located in southwestern France, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the western Pyrenees.
- Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport (LDE): Located in southwestern France, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the central Pyrenees.
Pyrenees, France By Train
The train is a convenient and scenic way to reach the Pyrenees.
- From Paris to Lourdes: High-speed TGV trains connect Paris to Lourdes in about 5 hours. Lourdes is a gateway to the central Pyrenees.
- From Barcelona to La Tour de Carol: The scenic “Train Jaune” (Yellow Train) runs from Barcelona to La Tour de Carol, offering stunning views of the Pyrenees.
Pyrenees By Car
Driving to the Pyrenees offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore remote areas.
- From Toulouse: The drive to the central Pyrenees takes about 2 to 3 hours via the A64 highway.
- From Barcelona: The drive to the eastern Pyrenees takes about 2 to 3 hours via the C-16 and N-260 roads.
Pyrenees By Bus
Buses are an affordable option for reaching the Pyrenees.
- From Toulouse to Lourdes: Several bus companies operate routes from Toulouse to Lourdes, with a journey time of about 2 hours.
- From Barcelona to Andorra: Direct buses connect Barcelona to Andorra, located in the heart of the Pyrenees, in about 3 hours.
Where to Stay in The Pyrenees Mountains
The Pyrenees offer a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels and charming guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels and campsites.
The Pyrenees Mountains Best hotels reviews, facilities and prices >>
Luxury Hotels Pyrenees France
- Hôtel du Palais, Biarritz: A historic palace hotel offering luxurious rooms, a spa, and stunning views of the Bay of Biscay. It’s located in Biarritz, near the western Pyrenees.
- Hotel Val de Neu, Baqueira: A five-star hotel located in the Baqueira-Beret ski resort, offering elegant rooms, a spa, and easy access to skiing and hiking trails.
Pyrenees Andorra Mid-Range Hotels
- Hotel Roissy, Lourdes: A comfortable hotel located near the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, offering modern amenities and a convenient location.
- Hotel La Neu, Ordino: A charming hotel in the Andorran village of Ordino, offering cozy rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
Budget Options in The Pyrenees Mountains
- Hostel Le Hameau des Genets, La Bastide-Puylaurent: A budget-friendly hostel located in a picturesque village, offering dormitory and private rooms.
- Albergue de Peregrinos de Roncesvalles, Roncesvalles: A pilgrim hostel offering affordable accommodation along the Camino de Santiago route.
Unique Stays in The Pyrenees Mountains, France
- Refuge des Espuguettes, Gavarnie: A mountain refuge offering basic but comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park.
- Parador de Vielha, Vielha: A modern parador (luxury hotel) located in the town of Vielha, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Towns located near The Pyrenees Mountains
Lourdes
Lourdes is a major pilgrimage site in southwestern France, known for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and its healing waters. Key attractions include:
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes: A complex of religious buildings including the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the Rosary Basilica, and the Grotto of Massabielle.
- Château Fort de Lourdes: A historic castle offering panoramic views of the town and the Pyrenees.
- Pic du Jer: Take the funicular to the summit for breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and surrounding valleys.
Biarritz
Biarritz is a stylish coastal town in southwestern France, known for its beautiful beaches and surfing spots. Highlights include:
- Grande Plage: The main beach in Biarritz, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
- Rocher de la Vierge: A rocky outcrop offering stunning views of the coastline and the Bay of Biscay.
- Biarritz Aquarium: An excellent aquarium showcasing marine life from the Bay of Biscay and beyond.
Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella is the capital of Andorra, a small principality in the eastern Pyrenees. It is known for its shopping, historic sites, and outdoor activities. Key attractions include:
- Casa de la Vall: A historic building housing the Andorran parliament and a museum.
- Sant Esteve Church: A beautiful Romanesque church with stunning frescoes and architecture.
- Caldea Spa: A large thermal spa offering a variety of pools, saunas, and wellness treatments.
Pau
Pau is a charming town in southwestern France, offering beautiful views of the Pyrenees and a rich cultural heritage. Highlights include:
- Château de Pau: A historic castle and museum, the birthplace of King Henry IV of France.
- Boulevard des Pyrénées: A scenic promenade offering stunning views of the Pyrenees and the surrounding countryside.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts: An art museum showcasing works by European masters and contemporary artists.
Tips for Excursions in The Pyrenees Mountains area
Cirque de Gavarnie
The Cirque de Gavarnie is a stunning natural amphitheater located in the Pyrenees National Park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing.
- Hiking Trails: Several trails lead to and around the Cirque de Gavarnie, offering stunning views of the cliffs and waterfalls.
- Grande Cascade: The highest waterfall in mainland France, with a drop of 422 meters (1,385 feet).
- Refuge des Espuguettes: A mountain refuge offering a perfect base for exploring the area and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park
Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Spanish Pyrenees. It is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and excellent hiking opportunities.
- Ordesa Valley: A beautiful valley offering a variety of hiking trails, stunning scenery, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
- Monte Perdido: The third highest peak in the Pyrenees, offering challenging climbs and breathtaking views.
- Cañón de Añisclo: A dramatic gorge offering stunning scenery and excellent hiking trails.
Val d’Aran
The Val d’Aran is a beautiful valley located in the Spanish Pyrenees, known for its charming villages, stunning landscapes, and outdoor activities.
- Vielha: The main town in the valley, offering beautiful architecture, shops, and restaurants.
- Baqueira-Beret: A popular ski resort offering excellent skiing in winter and hiking and mountain biking in summer.
- Artiga de Lin: A beautiful natural area offering stunning scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Pic du Midi de Bigorre
The Pic du Midi de Bigorre is a mountain in the French Pyrenees, known for its astronomical observatory and stunning panoramic views.
- Cable Car: Take the cable car from La Mongie to the summit for breathtaking views of the Pyrenees.
- Observatory: Visit the astronomical observatory to learn about the stars and planets and enjoy stunning views through the telescopes.
- Hiking Trails: Several trails lead to and around the Pic du Midi, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
