Hautes-Pyrénées

Cauterets

A charming mountain town known for its thermal baths, Cauterets is a popular destination for skiers and hikers. The town is surrounded by picturesque forests and waterfalls, making it a great place to explore the outdoors.

Col du Tourmalet

One of the most famous mountain passes in the Tour de France, the Col du Tourmalet is a popular destination for cyclists and hikers. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Pont d'Espagne

A picturesque bridge that spans a mountain stream, the Pont d'Espagne is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking. The area is known for its scenic waterfalls and alpine meadows, making it a great place to explore the natural beauty of Hautes-Pyrénées.

WELCOME TO Hautes-Pyrénées

Entry Into Department

largest city

Tarbes

AREA

4,464 km²

POPULATION

228,177

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Pyrenees National Park

Pyrenees National Park is a stunning natural area located in the heart of the Pyrenees mountains. Spanning over 450 square kilometers, the park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including brown bears, marmots, and golden eagles. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountaineering, and skiing in the park's breathtaking landscapes, including glacial lakes, lush forests, and towering peaks. The park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Cirque de Gavarnie

Cirque de Gavarnie is a spectacular natural amphitheater carved into the mountainside in Hautes-Pyrénées, France. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to the towering Gavarnie Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe. The area is popular for hiking, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. A must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Lourdes

Lourdes is a small town located in Hautes-Pyrénées, France, and is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. The town is home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, where millions of visitors come each year to seek spiritual guidance and healing. The town also features charming streets and picturesque surroundings, making it a great place to explore the cultural and historical side of Hautes-Pyrénées.

Political

Economy and Government

Hautes-Pyrénées is a department in the Occitanie region of southern France, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage. The region's economy is based primarily on tourism, with visitors drawn to its scenic mountain landscapes, historic villages, and rich cultural traditions.

In addition to tourism, the Hautes-Pyrénées economy is also supported by agriculture, with a focus on dairy farming, sheep farming, and the production of local specialties like foie gras and cured meats. The region also has a small but growing high-tech industry, with companies specializing in fields like software development and electronics.

The government of Hautes-Pyrénées is headed by a departmental council, which is responsible for managing local infrastructure, public services, and economic development initiatives. The council is made up of elected officials who work closely with local business leaders and community organizations to promote growth and prosperity throughout the region.
Overall, the Hautes-Pyrénées economy and government are focused on building a sustainable future for the region, one that balances the needs of the local community with the demands of an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

History

History and Culture

Hautes-Pyrénées is a department in southwestern France that is rich in history and culture. The area was inhabited by prehistoric peoples, and later by the Gauls and Romans. During the Middle Ages, the region was ruled by various counts and dukes, and saw conflicts with neighboring territories. The town of Lourdes gained importance in the 19th century, when a series of apparitions of the Virgin Mary occurred there, leading to the development of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

The culture of Hautes-Pyrénées is deeply connected to the area's mountain landscapes and pastoral traditions. Sheep farming has been an important industry in the area for centuries, and the region is known for its production of sheep's milk cheese, including the famous Ossau-Iraty cheese. The area's music and dance traditions also reflect its rural roots, with traditional instruments such as bagpipes and the tambourin à cordes.

The area is also known for its traditional festivals and celebrations, including the Carnaval de Lannemezan, which features elaborate floats and costumes, and the Fête des Bergers in Arreau, which celebrates the region's sheep farming culture. Overall, Hautes-Pyrénées offers a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is worth exploring for anyone interested in history, tradition, and local customs.

HOTELS

Hotel Alba

Located in the heart of the Pyrenees, Hotel Alba is a charming and cozy mountain lodge that offers comfortable accommodations and stunning views. The hotel features a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, a bar, and a relaxing spa.

Le Viscos

This boutique hotel is located in the town of Saint-Savin and features beautifully appointed rooms, a garden, and a terrace with views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel's restaurant serves gourmet cuisine prepared with local ingredients.

Hotel La Solitude

Situated in the heart of Lourdes, Hotel La Solitude is a modern and comfortable hotel that offers easy access to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a spa with a sauna and jacuzzi.

RESTAURANTS

Le Viscos

This Michelin-starred restaurant in Saint-Savin is known for its inventive, contemporary French cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect the seasons, and the wine list features a wide selection of regional and international wines.

La Grange aux Marmottes

Located in the picturesque village of Saint-Lary-Soulan, La Grange aux Marmottes is a charming restaurant that specializes in traditional Pyrenean cuisine. The menu features dishes like cassoulet, foie gras, and trout, and the wine list highlights some of the best wines from the surrounding region.

La Belle Etoile

This cozy restaurant in Bagnères-de-Bigorre offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a focus on classic French cuisine. The menu features dishes like steak tartare, duck confit, and bouillabaisse, and the wine list includes a variety of local and international wines.