Saint-Lary-Soulan

Saint-Lary-Soulan is a popular mountain resort town in the Hautes-Pyrénées department of southwestern France. Nestled in the Aure Valley, it's a dual-season destination, bustling with skiers in the winter and hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers in the summer. The town itself is divided into the charming, traditional village of Saint-Lary (at 830 m) and the higher ski resort areas of Pla d'Adet (1700 m) and Espiaube (1900 m). It offers a blend of authentic Pyrenean culture, outdoor adventure, and relaxing spa facilities. == Understand == The town has a rich history tied to the ancient pastoral life of the Pyrenees. Its development as a major tourist destination began in the mid-20th century with the establishment of the ski resort, founded by the visionary local mayor, Vincent Mir. Today, Saint-Lary successfully balances its traditional village charm, with stone and half-timbered houses, and its status as a modern resort. It's known for being family-friendly and offers a wide range of activities and amenities. The proximity to Spain, via the Aragnouet-Bielsa tunnel, adds a touch of cross-border culture. The Tourist Office is located in the center of the village and is an excellent first stop for maps, information, and booking activities. They offer public Wi-Fi. == Get in == === By plane === The nearest airports are: Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport (LDE): Approximately 80 km away (about a 1-hour drive). Shuttles are often available during the winter ski season. Pau Pyrénées Airport (PUF): Approximately 100 km away. Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS): Approximately 150 km away. From the airports, you can rent a car or arrange a shuttle transfer. === By train === The closest major train station is Lannemezan (Gare de Lannemezan), which is on the TGV line from Paris. From Lannemezan, you can take the regional liO bus line 963 directly to Saint-Lary-Soulan. The bus journey takes about an hour. === By car === Saint-Lary is accessible via the A64 motorway (Toulouse - Bayonne). Take exit 16 (Lannemezan) and then follow the D929 road for about 40 km to Saint-Lary. From Spain, you can take the A-138 which connects to the D173 in France via the Aragnouet-Bielsa Tunnel. Always check if the tunnel is open, especially in winter. The village has several car parks, and there are charging stations for electric vehicles available. == Get around == === On foot === The main village of Saint-Lary is compact and easily explored on foot. The main street, Rue Vincent Mir, is where you'll find most of the shops and restaurants. === By shuttle bus === A system of free shuttle buses (navettes) operates within the resort, which is very convenient. Village Shuttles: Two loops run during the season. One serves the main village and its residences, while the other connects to the nearby villages of Vignec, Vielle-Aure, and Bourisp. Resort Shuttles: Shuttles run up to the ski areas (Pla d'Adet), serving car parks and residences at the foot of the slopes. === By cable car and gondola === The Pic Lumière cable car and the Vignec-Saint-Lary gondola connect the main village to the Pla d'Adet ski area, providing quick access for pedestrians and skiers alike. == See == The Old Town: Wander through the heart of Saint-Lary village to admire the traditional Pyrenean architecture, with its stone walls, slate roofs, and wooden balconies. Maison du Patrimoine: An interpretation center and museum in the village dedicated to the history and cultural heritage of the Aure Valley. Néouvielle Nature Reserve: A short drive from Saint-Lary, this protected area is a must-see for its stunning landscapes of granite peaks, pine forests, and over 70 glacial lakes. The lakes of Orédon, Aumar, and Aubert are particularly beautiful. Access may be restricted in winter. Rioumajou Valley: A beautiful and accessible valley, perfect for easy walks along the river. You can drive to the Frédancon car park (usually open late May to early September) and walk to the Hospice du Rioumajou. Romanesque churches: The Aure Valley is home to several historic churches. The 12th-century chapel in Saint-Lary village is a prime example. == Do == Saint-Lary is an outdoor playground in both winter and summer. === Winter === Skiing and snowboarding: The main draw in winter. The Saint-Lary ski resort offers over 100 km of pistes suitable for all levels, from beginner areas at Pla d'Adet to more challenging runs at Espiaube and a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts. Snowshoeing: Numerous marked trails allow you to explore the snowy landscapes at a slower pace. Guided excursions are available. Dog sledding: A unique way to experience the winter wonderland. Sensoria Rio: Relax at the thermal spa complex, featuring a reconstructed canyon with waterfalls, jets, and jacuzzis, all with naturally warm spring water. === Summer === Hiking: Endless trails for all abilities, from gentle valley walks to challenging ascents of 3000-meter peaks. The GR10 long-distance trail passes through the area. Cycling: A mecca for road cyclists, with famous Tour de France climbs like the Col du Portet, Col d'Aspin, and Col d'Azet right on the doorstep. Mountain biking: The resort has a dedicated bike park with downhill and enduro trails, accessible via the ski lifts. Water sports: Go canyoning, rafting, or kayaking in the local rivers. Paragliding: See the valley from above with a tandem flight. == Buy == Saint-Lary Market: The weekly market is held every Saturday morning in the Ardoune car park. It's a great place to find local produce, including cheeses, cured meats, honey, and other Pyrenean specialties. Gâteau à la Broche: Don't leave without trying this traditional cake, cooked on a spit over a wood fire. Several bakeries and specialty shops sell it, such as Maison du Gâteau à la Broche. Local Produce Shops: Shops like L'Etable de Ramoun and La Ferme Vignecoise offer a great selection of high-quality regional products, perfect for souvenirs or a picnic. Souvenirs: Le Patou Souvenirs on the main street has a range of gifts and items with the Saint-Lary branding. == Eat == The region's cuisine is hearty and based on excellent local products like lamb, Black Bigorre pork, and river trout. === Budget === La Main à la Pâte: A popular spot for delicious pizzas, perfect for a casual family meal. Pizz' en Aure: Another great option for takeaway or a quick pizza dinner. === Mid-range === La Tute: A cozy restaurant with typical Pyrenean mountain decor, serving traditional dishes like raclette, fondue, and tartiflette. La Grange: Set in a beautifully restored mountain barn, offering a seasonal menu with fresh regional ingredients and stunning views. Le Gros Minet: Known for its generous portions, high-quality meat, and friendly atmosphere. === Splurge === La Pergola: A highly-regarded restaurant offering refined, gastronomic cuisine based on local products. It's mentioned in several food guides. Erassens: Located in the nearby village of Sailhan, this restaurant provides a high-end Pyrenean dining experience in an authentic setting. == Drink == Le Kinito: A lively bar in the village center, great for après-ski or an evening drink. Izard Café Central: A classic French café and bar on the main street. Ursus Coffee Shop: For a good cup of coffee, pastries, and a relaxed atmosphere. == Sleep == Saint-Lary has a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets. === Budget === 1 Refuge d'Aygues-Cluses. 2 Chalet-Hôtel d'Orédon. Open Jun–Sep. 88 beds. 3 Refuge-Hotel de l'Oule. Open mid-June to mid-September. Altitude 1819 m. Located at the dam wall. 20 beds and a bar. 4 Refuge d'Aygues-Cluses. 5 Chalet-Hôtel d'Orédon. Open Jun–Sep. 88 beds. 6 Refuge-Hotel de l'Oule. Open mid-June to mid-September. Altitude 1819 m. Located at the dam wall. 20 beds and a bar. 7 Hôtel Aurélia, ☏ +33 5 62 39 56 90. Simple, hiker-friendly hotel in town. 8 Camping La Mousquère, Nougaro, Autun, 65170 Bourisp. Open May 8–last weekend of September. === Mid-range === === Splurge === Mercure Saint-Lary: A modern 4-star hotel with excellent facilities, including a restaurant and spa services. Hôtel Neste de Jade: A charming and highly-rated hotel known for its wonderful service and comfortable rooms. == Connect == Tourist Office: Offers free public Wi-Fi. Mobile Coverage: 4G coverage is generally good in the village but can be patchy in the more remote mountain areas. Internet: Most hotels, residences, and many restaurants/cafés provide Wi-Fi for their customers. == Go next == Arreau: A charming medieval town at the confluence of the Aure and Louron valleys, about 10 km north of Saint-Lary. Loudenvielle: A beautiful village in the Louron valley, situated by a stunning lake. Home to the Balnéa thermal spa. Accessible via the Col d'Azet. Pyrenees National Park: Explore more of this vast protected area, with its incredible wildlife and landscapes. Spain: The Aragnouet-Bielsa tunnel provides direct access to the Spanish Pyrenees and the stunning landscapes of Aragon, including the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.