Lourdes Day tours
Departure from Lourdes
DP1 – LOUDENVIELLE AND THE LOURON VALLEY – FULL DAY $163 p.person*
From April to November: Dep. 9.30 – Ret. 18.30
Modern heritage in the heart of a preserved Pyrenean valley: We are now heading on a trip that will take us to the Louron Valley, the easternmost mountains in the Hautes-Pyrenees department, situated on the border of the Haute-Garonne. Virgin mountain scenery will welcome you in this innovative but preserved Pyrenean valley.
From our departure in Lourdes, we’ll drive in the direction of Bagnères de Bigorre, the famous thermal resort. Afterwards we will cross the Campan valley towards the well-known Aspin pass. This pass is quite often included on the Tour de France route. At the bottom of the pass, the small resort of Payolle offers a frame to accents from the Vosges Region (north east of France) with its forests of fir trees and its beautiful lake that unveils panoramic view of the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. The descent of the Aspin pass will take us to Arreau, a small town located at the junction of the Aure and Louron Valleys. This area was recently recognized for obtaining the label “Region of Art and History”. Coming back up out of the valley from Arreau, little by little the mountains will reveal an exceptional preserved territory that has been able to keep its charming villages fresh, and historically accurate. These typical mountain houses continue all the way around the deep and peaceful lake. The Louron has been able to evolve while at the same time preserving its heritage. The spa centre of Balnéa is in perfect harmony with the Roman churches, a rare jewel of this valley.
DP2 – SAINT-BERTRAND DE COMMINGES, NESTES & BARONNIES REGIONS – FULL DAY $163 p.person*
All year-round: Dep. 9.30 – Ret. 18.30
A green and undulating area, balcony of the Pyrenees: We are on our way to visit a region in the heart of the Pyrenean piedmont, between the lands of Comminges, Nestes and Baronnies. A natural and authentic setting revealing wide and wonderful panoramas, always keeping in the background our wonderful Pyrenees. This area abounds with cultural attractions : the Cathedral of Saint-Bertrand de Comminges, Gargas Caves, Mount Calvary in Arès, Escaladieu Abbey, Mauvezin Castle, everything is within reach.
From the departure in Lourdes, we will drive to the Comminges, where we will visit one of the Great Sites of Midi-Pyrenees, Saint-Bertrand de Comminges – Valcabrère. “Isolated from the world” the medieval village of Saint-Bertrand de Comminges, perched on a promontory in a remarkable setting, seems frozen out of time. Both its cathedral, stopping on the road to Saint James of Compostela and the basilica of Saint-Just Valcabrère, located below, lost his cemetery in the fields form a picture of incomparable grace. Passing near the famous caves of Gargas, we will continue towards Mount Arès, where stand eleven chapels, mysteriously built along a slope in perfect alignment. Then we reach the village of Mauvezin, which dominates the Baronnies. Its medieval castle is waiting for us, located in a strategic point that controlled the various valleys of Bigorre and the road from Toulouse to the ocean. At the foot of the hill of Mauvezin, we will reach the Cistercian Escaladieu Abbey, built in the valley of the Arros. Founded in the twelfth century, it gives off a soothing atmosphere that everyone will enjoy with pleasure. Finally, our day will end with a tour of the most charming villages of Baronnies, part of the High-Pyrenees that away from mass tourism, has kept all its authenticity
DP3 – THE LAND OF THE GLACIAL CIRQUES OF UNESCO – FULL DAY $169 p.person*
From May to October: Dep. 9.30 – Ret. 19.00
Natural Giants of the Pyrenees: We are on our way to visit the region of glacial cirques, the world-renowned temples of nature classified as world heritage sites by UNESCO. The vast natural area, bordered on the south side by the Spanish National Park of Ordesa Monte Perdido, is formed by the Gavarnie, Estaubé, and Troumouse cirques and it is a vital part of the identity of the Hautes-Pyrénées region.
From the departure in Lourdes, we will follow the entire Valley of the Gaves, until Gavarnie, the village located at the southernmost point of the department of the Hautes-Pyrénées. Immediately upon arrival at the village you’ll be able to perceive the beginning of the cirques. The easy trail leads to the foot of the cirque and its lofty waterfall (the highest in Europe). We’ll leave this impressive wall to rejoin the Cirque of Estaubé. Leaving the Gloriettes Dam, we’ll have to bypass the lake to get a view of this cousin to Gavarnie, and a unique vista of the Monte Perdido (lost Spanish mountain). We’ll finish off our trilogy of cirques visiting the Cirque of Troumouse, the magnificent amphitheatre. The culmination of summits reaches 3,000 metres. Less known but larger and wilder than Gavarnie, Troumouse is accessible by car and offers a magnificent view of a hilly prairie, without the effort of a hike. Here you can stretch out on the bank of the River and wait for the wild marmots to make an appearance.
DP4 – AURE VALLEY, NEOUVIELLE LAKES AND RESERVOIRS – FULL DAY $169 p.person*
From June to October: Dep. 9.30 – Ret. 18.30
Dynamic protected reserve at the heart of an exceptional valley: We are on our way to a trip that will take us into the Aure Valley. The beating heart of this territory is situated in Saint-Lary-Soulan, the dynamic resort with preserved authentic architecture that is the most important village of the valley. The Aure Valley provides access to Spain, and is also close to all the famous Aragonese Canyons, as well as the Néouvielle Reserve, a protected jewel of the National Park of the Pyrenees.
From our departure in Lourdes our route will take us towards Bagnères de Bigorre, the renowned spa town, where we will then cross the Campan Valley. Heading towards the famous Aspin Pass, we’ll follow in the footsteps of the Tour de France. At the foot of the pass, the small resort of Payolle offers a frame to accents from the Vosges Region (north east of France) with its forests of fir trees and its beautiful lake that unveils panoramic view of the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. The descent from the Aspin pass will take us to Arreau, a small town situated at the junction of the Nestes Valleys, and entry way to an area recently recognized for obtaining the label “Region of Art and History”. Saint-Lary-Soulan is the quintessential image of the Aure Valley: an exceptional thermal and mountain resort and a dynamic village that was able to preserve the historical stone, wood and slate architecture. Heading up from the bottom of the valley towards Spain, we will soon reach a true natural sanctuary. The Natural Reserve of Néouvielle is a jewel of flora and fauna boasting several ponds and lakes, giving you the sensation of being at the edge of the Earth.
Not included: Meal, possible use of the Orédon shuttle
DP5 –LUCHON AND SPAIN VIA THE PASS OF PORTILLON – FULL DAY $169 p.person*
All year-round: Dep. 9.30 – Ret. 19.00
The Queen of the Pyrenees gateway to the Vall d’Aran: We’re on our way to a detour to the heart of Luchon, Great Tourist Site of Midi-Pyrénées, famous spa town since Roman times and gateway to Catalonia, by the very green Vall d’Aran. Here, exchanges between France and Spain have always been very strong and have shaped the identity of the neighbouring territories, even before the construction of Europe became a reality!
From Lourdes, we will take the direction of the Comminges region, and then follow the left bank of the Garonne River passing through the land of Barousse, to reach the town of Luchon, Queen of the Pyrenees. First thermal resort of the French Massif, this authentic mountain town is surrounded by many peaks among the most majestic of the chain, such as the Aneto, the highest point of the Pyrenees. Luchon has always been courted throughout its history by the high society. This is reflected in its elegant Belle Époque style architecture, which gives it a peculiar stamp. The ski resort of Superbagnères, offers a superb panorama, over 360 °. From there we will descend to the valley of the Lys to admire the famous Cascade d’Enfer (Hell waterfall). Then we will enter the Valley of la Pique, grandiose setting between waterfalls, meadows and woods, where we will find the famous Hospice de France (Hostel of France). It’s a place full in history between Spain and France, strategic point on the way of the paths of St. James that has always been travelled until the recent Spanish era of « retirada ». The day will end with the crossing of the pass of Portillon that connects with the Vall d’Aran, for a shopping session in Spain.
DP6 – ARTOUSTE, POURTALET, FORMIGAL (SPAIN)– FULL DAY $185 p.person*
From May to September: Dep. 9.00 – Ret. 19.00
The Ossau valley, the gateway to Spain and the Bigorre region: We’re on our way to a detour to the heart of the teeming valley of Ossau, neighbouring Spain and Bigorre. At Artouste, the ‘little train’ is the highest in Europe and one of the most beautiful hikes of the region. On this outing you are guaranteed panoramic views. Spain is waiting for you at the summit of the Pourtalet pass. Finally from the Aubisque and Soulor passes you will be able to see the Bigorre, and the Marian City (Lourdes).
From our departure in Lourdes we will be heading towards the Ossau valley, following the River Gave of Pau for the first leg of our journey. We’ll go through Laruns, the capital of the valley that’s situated at the foot of the Aubisque and Pourtalet passes. Next we’ll be entering into the gorges of the River Gave of Ossau to reach Fabrèges. From here we will catch the gondola that will take us to the ‘little train that flanks the mountain for 10 km until the Artouste Lake. During this 50 minute trip you will be up close and personal to the mountain peaks boasting almost 3,000 metres of altitude and some amazing views. The lake is a reservoir containing 24 million cubic metres of water, and provides hydroelectricity that powers the entire valley. After coming down, we’ll continue our route towards Spain, by way of the Pourtalet pass. Little by little the view of the Pic du Midi of Ossau will open up in front of us. Waiting for us at the summit of the pass, are the notorious Spanish ‘ventas’ where you’ll be able to take advantage of some shopping opportunities. Immediately on the Spanish side of the slope you’ll be able to see the charming ski station, Formigal. Here we’ll turn around by way of the Aubisque and the Soulor passes, famous for their place on the Tour de France race that leads to the picturesque valley of Azun and its authentic villages.
Not included: meal, gondola and little train fees
DP7 – SPAIN: THE VALL D’ARAN – FULL DAY $185 p.person*
All year-round: Dep. 9.30 – Ret. 19.00
An enclave at the crossroads of several borders: We’re on our way to a detour to the heart of the Catalonian Pyrenees, in the Vall d’Aran, a Spanish territory, geographically and historically closely linked to France. The roof of the Pyrenees, the Aneto (3404 metres) is located in this valley where the River Garonne has its source. A taste of Occitania in Spain!
From our departure in Lourdes we will drive in the direction of the Comminges region, and then up the valley of the Garonne, and finally reach the Val d’Aran, a valley on the border of two states: France and Spain but also several historical regions: Gascony, Languedoc, Catalonia and Aragon. It is a land rich in fir, pine and beech forests but also in lakes. The charm of this valley is reflected in its architecture which uses stone, slate and wood. The churches of Romanesque and Gothic styles represent very well this traditional architecture. Proud of its rich artistic and cultural heritage, the Val d’Aran affirms itself as a Catalan territory with an own identity. Our journey will allow us to discover its seductive capital: Vielha nestled in the mountains, it concentrates more than two thirds of the population of the valley. Then we will continue east to take a pass known as the “Port de la Bonaigua” to reach one of the most important Spanish winter resorts and also one of the most famous in the Pyrenees, Baqueira-Beret, very popular among the Spanish jet set. From there we will enjoy panoramic views of the territory that one of the most beautiful in Catalonia. On the way back, we will have a stop for shopping in Spanish territory!
DP8 – THE ROAD TO THE PASSES OF THE TOUR DE FRANCE – FULL DAY $185 p.person*
From May-June to October: Dep. 9.30 – Ret. 19.00
In the footsteps of the giants of the Tour de France: On our way for a tour in the heart of the story of The Tour de France legends. The passes of Aubisque, Soulor, Tourmalet, Aspin and Peyresourde… So many names suggestive of sporting achievements, we invite you to discover. Your climb of these giants of the Tour will certainly be much more comfortable than if you do it by bike! But don’t worry the fun and the pleasure of discovering will remain intact.
After a departure from Lourdes, our loop will begin with the pass of Aubisque which rises to 1.709 metres. In its descending part, we will take the breathtaking cliff road that offers magnificent views, before reaching the Pass of Soulor (1.474 metres), its rapid descent on the Val d’Azun and its charming and preserved Pyrenean villages. Arrived in Argelès-Gazost, famous charming spa town, located in the heart of the Gaves Valley, we will take the direction of the legendary pass of the Tourmalet, which is annually among the traditional and major climbs of the Tour. We will start climbing the Tourmalet, in the charming village of Luz-Saint-Sauveur, to pass then through Barèges. Once reaching the 2.115 metres of altitude, we will be descending to the Campan valley, crossing the ski resort of La Mongie, the starting point to reach the unique Pic du Midi de Bigorre. At Sainte-Marie de Campan, we will begin the rise of the green pass of Aspin (1.489 metres), colonized by a magnificent pine forest. Its descent will take us to Arreau, before tackling the final climb of the trip to the colours of cycling, the pass of Peyresourde (1.569 metres), whose descent will lead us to the “Queen of the Pyrenees”, and the city of Luchon.
DP9 – BIARRITZ AND THE BASQUE COAST – FULL DAY $200 p.person*
All year-round: Dep. 9.30 – Ret. 19.00
Identity, nature and heritage in an exceptional area: On our way for a magical visit into the heart of the Basque country and its magnificent coast. Biarritz, Saint-Jean de Luz, Ciboure, Bidart, Hendaye, Guéthary, so many enchanting sites that will seduce you with their charm. A visit to the Basque coast is sure to leave its impression, and you will fall under the spell of this amazing corner of the southwest.
After a departure from Lourdes, we’ll cross the Béarn region before reaching the iconic Basque country. The coastal excursion begins at the French/Spanish border, in Hendaye. Heading north, between Hendaye and Saint-Jean de Luz! We will travel the astonishing green ridge that overlooks the ocean and offers unforgettable views of both the picturesque Pyrenees as well as the Basque coast. A true natural wonder, from which we’ll be able to enjoy the spectacular wave’s crash against the cliffs. Our visit continues in Ciboure, the city of artists that along with Saint-Jean de Luz, notably known for the wedding of Louis XIV, form a magnificent bay perfect for a calm moment of contemplation. Next we’ll arrive at the picturesque village of Guéthary with its own unique charm, a surfer’s paradise, to then continue towards Bidart, the highest resort of the Basque littoral. Last but not least, for the “grand finale”, we’ll reach the most visited and fashionable resort in the southwest, Biarritz, which is extremely popular with the surfers. The town owes most of its charm to the gardens arranged on the edges of cliffs, among the rocks and boulders and along the three sand beaches. From here, the view of the Gulf of Gascony extends from the mouth of the Adour all the way to Spain. As the Emperor Napoleon III, you’ll fall in love with this city and its incomparable panoramas.
DP10 –ANDORRA – EL PAS DE LA CASA – FULL DAY $246 p.person*
All year-round: Dep. 8.00 – Ret. 19.00
Visit and shopping in a Pyrenean principality: We are on our way to a trip that will take to “the country of the Pyrenees”, the principality of Andorra! Small country remained curiously apart from the centralized French and Spanish states; Andorra is attractive for its beautiful mountain sites and known as the Mecca of tax-free shopping.
From our departure in Lourdes we will drive to the east. Always keeping in the background our wonderful Pyrenees, we will cross some of its different lands. Bigorre, Comminges, Couserans, Pays de Foix and High-Ariège, will unfold its magnificent landscapes, revealing the many faces of the massif, and its diverse natural and cultural attractions. After the village of Ax les Thermes in Ariège, a renowned spa and winter resort, we will begin the final climb using the famous pass of Puymorens and the pass of Envalira to reach Le Pas de la Casa, gateway to the principality of Andorra. The Pas de la Casa resort is dominated by high mountains and surrounded by pastures on which herds graze freely. The proximity of France and a favourable configuration of the site allowed the ancient village to grow to establish itself as a first-class tourist and commercial destination; evidenced by the countless shops and its ski area that is among the largest of the Pyrenees.
*for 2 people taking part in the excursion as a minimum
For day tour in Spain, don’t forget that you will need your passport.
Not included: meal
Nov 11
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