What is there to see around the Pic du Midi?
The Pic du Midi de Bigorre
The Pic du Midi de Bigorre, which rises to an altitude of 2,877 metres, is one of the iconic peaks of the Hautes-Pyrénées. Accessible from La Mongie by cable car, its panoramic terraces offer exceptional views of the Pyrenees mountain range, stretching up to 300 kilometres on a clear day. At the summit, visitors can explore the observatory and the areas dedicated to astronomy and scientific research. They can also venture out onto the ‘Ponton dans le Ciel’ (Skywalk), a 12-metre-long metal walkway whose glass-bottomed end overlooks the void. A particularly dizzying experience that allows you to enjoy the panorama from a different angle.
From the Col du Tourmalet to Cirque de Gavarnie
To get to the Pic du Midi, you have to cross the legendary Col du Tourmalet (2,115 m). Since 1910, it has been regularly climbed by the cyclists of the Tour de France. From Bagnères-de-Bigorre, you walk along the eastern slope through the Campan valley and the ski resort of La Mongie.
On the west side, you pass through Argelès-Gazost, the gorges of Luz-Saint-Sauveur and the resort of Barèges. The magnificent natural site of the cirque of Gavarnie is only 20 km away at the end of the Luz-Saint-Sauveur valley.
Heading for the Pyrenean spas
The Pic du Midi area lies at the heart of a region steeped in the tradition of thermal spa culture, particularly along the Route Thermale, which was developed in the late 19th century during the reign of Napoleon III. This route linked the main spa towns of the Pyrenees, including Bagnères-de-Luchon, Saint-Lary-Soulan, Bagnères-de-Bigorre, Barèges, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Cauterets, Eaux-Bonnes and Argelès-Gazost. Frequented by celebrities and artists, these resorts saw the development of large parks, elegant villas and prestigious buildings. They still host numerous cultural events today.
In the heart of Bigorre
The Pic du Midi is part of the Bigorre region, which stretches as far as Lourdes, Tarbes, Bagnères-de-Bigorre towards the banks of the Adour and the Gave de Pau rivers. This setting, rich in museums, historical and traditional heritage, is to be discovered in the plains and in the hollow of the valleys. Just next door are the charming hills of Béarn and Comminges. Find the strong flavours of the soil in the plate, around the black pork, the spit cake, the garbure bigourdane, the Tarbais bean.
If you’d like to extend your exploration of the south of France in spring, do take a look at our article dedicated to spring on the Côte du Midi.
From the Néouvielle lakes to Mont Perdu
Full south, the Néouvielle nature reserve overlooking the Col du Tourmalet is worth a visit. In the Pyrenees National Park, you reach it via the Aure valley and Saint-Lary-Soulan, to discover 5 pretty lakes around the Orédon chalets.
Passing through the Aragnouet-Bielsa tunnel all year round, you can also travel to neighbouring Spain to discover the treasures of the Ordesa National Park and the Lost Mountain in the province of Huesca.
Campsites near the Pic du Midi
There are five campsites in the close vicinity of the Pic du Midi. If you’re willing to travel a little further afield, we recommend these two:
Camping de l’Adour – Gerde
The Camping de l’Adour****, in Gerde, is situated opposite the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. The summit is visible from the campsite, whilst the resort of La Mongie – the departure point for the cable car to the Pic du Midi – is about a 20-minute drive away.
Airotel Pyrénées – Esquièze-Sère
Located in Esquièze-Sère, near Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Airotel Pyrénées**** is another ideal base for exploring the Pic du Midi. The campsite is 26 km from the summit and about a 40-minute drive from the La Mongie cable car, which provides access to the Pic. It’s also a great base for exploring the Cirque de Gavarnie, the Col du Tourmalet and the Néouvielle nature reserve. On site, holidaymakers have access to several swimming pools, including an indoor one.