The picturesque Col d'Aubisque and explore its spiritual and natural beauty
premium | From $4,599 pp
Day by Day
Day 1: Pau
Pick Up Rental Car
Arrival at your accommodation
After the check-in, you will have the rest of the day to visit the surroundings.
Suggestion – Visit the charming town of Pau in the foothills of the Pyrénées
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Pyrénées mountains, the charming town of Pau boasts a unique blend of medieval architecture, artistic treasures, and breathtaking natural beauty, captivating visitors with its rich history, stunning scenery, and elegant atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture by strolling through its charming parks and exploring its cobbled streets, which whisper tales of times gone by.
Take a stroll along the scenic 1.8 km-long Boulevard des Pyrénées and marvel at the panoramic views of the majestic Pyrénées from here. Explore the city’s historic castle, the birthplace of King Henry IV of France, and its surrounding Renaissance-style gardens as you delve into the city’s royal past. You can also visit the many museums that Pau is home to, where you can discover a collection of masterpieces spanning centuries and artistic styles.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a picturesque escape, Pau’s timeless allure will leave a lasting impression.
Day 2: Lourdes
Road from Pau to Lourdes
Day 3: Lourdes
Private Full Day Walking Tour of Lourdes
Participate in the English mass, then visit the three basilicas: the Basilica of the Rosary, the Basilica of St. Pious X, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
Your guide will walk you through the Grotto, the Water Taps, the Candle Burners, the Baths and will brief you about the activities available to pilgrims.
In the old part of the town you will also visit the birthplace of Bernadette and the place where she was living at the time of the apparitions.
Day 4: Gavarnie
Road to the Cirque de Gavarnie
Guided hiking tour Cirque de Gavarnie
Victor Hugo has described this magnificent wonder as “the Colosseum of Nature” due to its enormous size and horseshoe shape resembling an ancient Amphitheatre. The Cirque de Gavarnie is part of the “Pyrenées – Mont Perdu” range and shares its borders with both France and Spain. It was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and is one of the few places with a double classification of both natural and cultural.
You can easily understand the natural heritage of the Cirque due to its sheer size, its unique flora and fauna, and the beautiful waterfalls. To understand the cultural aspect of Cirque’s heritage, you only have to spend a day in the vicinity. The French and Spanish communities that live in the Gavarnie Cirque share a pastoral way of life. This unique feature of the people has remained the basis of their identity to this day.
The path between the Gavarnie torrent and the foot of the Cirque is a perfect place for a relaxing hike. Very close to the Cirque de Gavarnie, Millaris offers a modern and interactive museum area where visitors discover the region of the Pyrenean Cirques and all the facets of their classification as world heritage.
Day 5: Pic du Midi
Road to Pic du Midi – la Mongie
Entrance ticket – Ascent of the pic du Midi
Pic du Midi de Bigorre, one of the most stunning summits in the Hautes-Pyrenees, is renowned for the beauty of its landscape and astronomy observatory.
Take a cable car from La Mongie to reach the peak at an altitude of 2877 meters. You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the landscape in addition to the fresh and pure air. Pic du Midi is also open year-round for nighttime events such as “Starry Nights” and “Nights of the Summit”. Spend the night on this emblematic mountain top and make memorable souvenirs.
You can enjoy tasty local gastronomy at the Pic du midi restaurant while admiring the splendid view.
Day 6: Saint-Lary-Soulan
Road to Réserve naturelle de Néouvielle
Guided hiking tour – Réserve naturelle du Néouvielle
Covering 2313 hectares with majestic peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and verdant valleys crisscrossed by waterfalls, the Réserve Naturelle du Néouvielle is a true haven of peace and magic in the heart of the Pyrénées.
Home to exceptional biodiversity, this reserve boasts animals including marmots, isards, desmans, warblers, and capercaillies that can be spotted amidst the 300-million-year-old granite peaks and enchanting Pyrenean hooked-pine forests and fir groves. In spring, a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers unfolds across the meadows and rocky slopes, with gentians, martagon lilies, and rhododendrons adding pops of color.
Whether you prefer a day trip or a multi-day adventure, this nature reserve, one of the oldest in France, is a great place for hikers of all levels, offering breathtaking scenery and plenty of opportunities to picnic lakeside and soak in the mountain air. Refuges and dorms within the reserve also allow hikers to spend the night cocooned in the serenity of these mountains and disconnect from the trials of everyday life.
Day 7: Pyrenees
Drop off Your Car Before Heading Home
End of Our Service
Your journey with us has come to an end. We hope to see you soon!
Map
About This Trip:
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- Enjoy 24/7 English-spoken telephone assistance while traveling
- This itinerary includes transport, activities, guides, accommodations with breakfasts, and other listed services
- Price is in USD per person, assuming double occupancy. Note that prices and availability are subject to change.
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