Explore the Pyrenees: Landscapes, History, and Culture -

Explore the Pyrenees: Landscapes, History, and Culture

11 Days | History & Culture

Journey Through the Heart of the Pyrenees: Breathtaking Landscapes, Rich History, and Vibrant Culture from Pau to Perpignan

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Embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart of the Pyrenees, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Your adventure begins in the charming town of Pau, with its medieval charm. Drive to Lourdes via the picturesque Col d'Aubisque and explore its spiritual and natural beauty. Continue to the awe-inspiring Cirque de Gavarnie and hike its dramatic landscapes. Traverse the iconic Col du Tourmalet to La Mongie, then hike in the Réserve Naturelle du Néouvielle. Visit Luchon for its Belle Époque architecture and thermal baths, and explore the hilltop village of Saint Bertrand de Comminges. Enjoy a day trip to Andorra and a wine tasting in Bélesta before ending your journey in vibrant Perpignan.

Day by day

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Day 1: Pau

Pick Up Rental Car

At your arrival, a rental car will be at your disposal for the length of your stay. Thus, you can move freely and comfortably. On the day of departure, you will drop off the vehicle.

Welcome to Pau, the capital 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 Pyrenees 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.

Pyrénées

Day 2: Lourdes

Drive to Lourdes

The road from Pau to Lourdes via the Col d’Aubisque is a picturesque and challenging route, popular among cyclists and motorists alike. Starting in Pau, the journey heads south towards the Pyrenees, offering stunning views of the mountains and verdant landscapes. The ascent to Col d’Aubisque, at 1,709 meters (5,607 feet) above sea level, is a notable highlight, renowned for its steep gradients and dramatic switchbacks. The summit provides breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Descending towards Lourdes, the road continues to wind through charming mountain villages and lush forests, eventually arriving in Lourdes, a town famous for its religious significance and natural beauty. This route is celebrated for its natural splendor and is a staple in the Tour de France, making it a memorable journey for any traveler.

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.

Lourdes

Day 4: Pyrenees

Make your way to the Cirque de Gavarnie
The road from Lourdes to Cirque de Gavarnie is a scenic journey through the heart of the French Pyrenees. Leaving Lourdes, the route travels southward, meandering through picturesque valleys and traditional mountain villages. As you approach the higher elevations, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with steep cliffs, lush forests, and cascading streams. The road follows the Gave de Pau river, providing a tranquil backdrop to the journey. Upon reaching the Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’re greeted by a majestic natural amphitheater with towering rock walls, waterfalls, and lush meadows. This route is not only a visual feast but also a gateway to one of the most stunning natural wonders in the Pyrenees.

Hike with a guide in the 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.

Pyrenees

Day 5: Pic du Midi

Make your way to la Mongie, through the Col du Tourmalet

The road from Cirque de Gavarnie to La Mongie through the Col du Tourmalet is an iconic and challenging route in the French Pyrenees, revered by cyclists and motorists alike. Starting from the breathtaking Cirque de Gavarnie, the journey heads northeast, descending through picturesque valleys and passing through quaint mountain villages. As you approach the Col du Tourmalet, one of the most famous climbs in the Tour de France, the road begins a steep and winding ascent. The climb to the Col du Tourmalet, at 2,115 meters (6,939 feet) above sea level, features dramatic switchbacks and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. After reaching the summit, the descent towards La Mongie is equally thrilling, with sweeping vistas and alpine scenery. La Mongie, a popular ski resort, marks the end of this spectacular route, known for its challenging climbs and stunning natural beauty.

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.

Pic du Midi de Bigorre

Day 6: Saint-Lary-Soulan

Hiking in the Réserve naturelle du Néouvielle with a guide

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.

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.

Saint Lary Soulan

Day 7: Bagnères de Luchon

Make your way from La Mongie to Bagnères de Lunchon through Col d’Aspin

he road from La Mongie to Luchon through Col d’Aspin is a scenic and adventurous route in the French Pyrenees. Starting from La Mongie, the journey heads down through winding mountain roads surrounded by lush forests and alpine meadows. As you approach Col d’Aspin, the road begins to climb, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The Col d’Aspin, at 1,489 meters (4,885 feet) above sea level, is known for its pastoral landscapes, often dotted with grazing livestock. After reaching the summit, the descent into the valley is picturesque, with the road winding through verdant landscapes and charming villages.

Welcome to Bagnères de Luchon!

Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Pyrénées, Bagnères-de-Luchon, or Luchon for short, is a charming town that offers a delightful blend of relaxation, rich history, and outdoor adventure. Just two hours away from Toulouse, this charming town is a perfect getaway any time of year. Nicknamed “Queen of the Pyrénées,” it boasts stunning Belle Epoque architecture – elegant villas, grand hotels, and an Italian-style theater line the streets, transporting you to a bygone era.

Luchon’s true treasure is its thermal waters, known for their healing properties since Roman times. Indulge in a unique day of rejuvenation at Europe’s one-of-a-kind natural steam bath, the Luchon Vaporarium, and emerge revitalized.

Pyrenees

Day 8: Saint Bertrand de Comminges (west of Lourdes)

Saint Bertrand de Comminges

Surrounded by the peaceful and green environment of the Comminges hills, the beautiful hilltop village of Saint Bertrand-de Comminges is famous for its Cathedral Sainte Marie, which overlooks the village and its surroundings. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural marvel. As you pass through the doors of this masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic art, you will time-travel to ancient times. Whilst the tranquil ambiance of Saint Bertrand de Comminges is an ideal place to relax, you will enjoy exploring the village as well. Officially listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, you will be fascinated with the ancient medieval doors that join the half-timber houses. Overlooking the ancient site and the valley below, this old town is a captivating puzzle of lanes.

At the foot of Saint Bertrand de Comminges, you will see the ruins of Lugdunum-Convenae, founded in the 1st century BC. It prospered until the barbarian invasion in 585. You will see the forum, arena, thermal baths, and portico square. Don’t miss the Christian Basilica, one of the oldest 12th-century Roman churches that was built with numerous reused Gallo-Roman sculpted doors and a square bell tower from the 14th century.

Every year, the annual festival of Comminges, the first internationally known classical music, is held between August and September. It features around 20 concerts in the most prestigious venues of the central Pyrénées.

Saint Bertrand de Comminges

Day 9: Andorra la Vella

Andorre

A day trip from Tarascon-sur-Ariège to Andorra offers a scenic and varied journey through the French Pyrenees into the microstate of Andorra.

As you drive, you’ll pass through several quaint mountain villages such as Ax-les-Thermes, known for its thermal springs and beautiful alpine scenery. Continuing on, the road ascends towards the Port d’Envalira, the highest paved road in the Pyrenees at 2,408 meters (7,900 feet) above sea level, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Entering Andorra, you descend into the bustling capital, Andorra la Vella. This vibrant city is famous for its shopping, dining, and tax-free status, making it a great place to explore and enjoy lunch. You can also visit historical sites, such as the Casa de la Vall, and take in the stunning mountain backdrop.

After spending some time in Andorra la Vella, you can explore the beautiful countryside of Andorra, perhaps taking a short hike or visiting a mountain village. The return journey to Tarascon-sur-Ariège retraces your route, allowing you to enjoy the scenic drive once more. This day trip offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and the excitement of visiting a new country.

Andorra la Vella

Day 10: Bélesta - Canet-en-Roussillon

Bélesta

Departing from Tarascon-sur-Ariège, you’ll head eastward on the D117, traveling through the picturesque landscapes of the French Pyrenees and the foothills of the region.

Your first stop is Bélesta, a charming village nestled in the rolling hills and vineyards. Bélesta is known for its exceptional wines and scenic beauty. Here, you will visit a local winery for a wine tasting session, savoring the rich flavors and learning about the winemaking process in this unique terroir. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, perhaps pairing local wines with regional cuisine.

After your stop in Bélesta, continue your journey towards Perpignan. The drive takes you through more stunning countryside, characterized by vineyards, forests, and quaint villages. Upon reaching Perpignan, a vibrant city near the Mediterranean coast, you can explore its rich Catalan culture, historic sites, and lively streets. Visit the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, stroll through the old town, and enjoy the local cuisine in one of the many cafes and restaurants.

Roussillon

Day 11: Perpignan

Private guided walking tour of Perpignan city

On this tour, your guide will take you to the narrow Catalan streets and Mediterranean squares of the medieval city of Perpignan. You will be overwhelmed by the charm of this “City of Art and History”. Let yourself be swayed by its history, and beautiful monuments and explore the richness and diversity of the Perpignan heritage.

Drop off Your Car Before Heading Home

As you reach the airport or the train station for your ride back, you will return your rental vehicle to a convenient place.

Perpignan

About This Trip:

    • 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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