The Pyrenees are a paradise for winter sports!
The Pyrenees stretches for 430km from east to west across the three countries of France, Spain, and Andorra. This area has a wide variety of terrain, from relatively gentle mountain ranges at 1,000m above sea level to steep mountain ranges with peaks at 3,000m above sea level, and is dotted with a wide variety of snow resorts. The French side of the Pyrenees in particular has a wide variety of unique snow resorts, from casual slopes for families to cross-country ski slopes rich in nature, and full-scale courses where international competitions are held.
For example, if you are visiting with your family, we recommend "Saint-Rallye", the largest snow resort on the French side of the Pyrenees. This resort has a wide variety of courses on its vast grounds, and around the top of one of the main slopes, "Mikkei Slope", there are plenty of facilities such as a snow play area for kids, a sledding course, and a nursery. You can enjoy the snow resort with peace of mind with your family. Also, if you want to fully enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Pyrenees, be sure to check out "Ax Trois Domaines Ski Resort", located near Col de Payer at an altitude of about 2,000m. This resort has three consecutive slopes, "Saquet", "Griolle", and "Bonascle", and you can enjoy a long course of about 10km in length that connects multiple slopes. These slopes are for beginners and intermediate skiers, so another big attraction is that you can enjoy the nature of the Pyrenees relatively easily.
In addition, on the French side of the Pyrenees, there are a wide variety of snow resorts, such as "Pio Angari", which is high in altitude and has a reputation for its snow quality, and "Murtis Resort", which is surrounded by beautiful forests. Please choose a destination that suits your style!
Enjoy a luxurious time in the Pyrenees with "snow" and "hot springs"
"After skiing and snowboarding, I want to enjoy a hot spring!" Many people who enjoy winter sports in Japan on a daily basis probably think this way. On the French side of the Pyrenees, there are many places where you can enjoy such a luxurious winter trip. In fact, this is one of Europe's leading hot spring paradises. It is surprising to know that there were already 30 spas there in the 19th century.
Among the many spas around the Pyrenees, one of the most popular is the Balnea Spa Resort, which spreads out on the shores of Lake Genos-Loudenvielle in the Hautes-Pyrenees department in southwestern France. The open-air baths overlooking the majestic mountain ranges are an attractive feature of the resort's outstanding location. In addition, it is a very popular spot where you can enjoy baths with a variety of themes, such as "Roman style," "Japanese style," and "Native American style." Of course, the Peyragudes and Val Louron ski resorts are located near the spa, so it is also recommended to stop by after snow sports!
Ax-les-Thermes, a ski resort located in the Ariège department near the Principality of Andorra, is also famous for its combination of snow and hot springs. The Couleur-de-la-Vallée hot springs, where hot spring water at 77°C gushes forth, are a hot spring resort that can be enjoyed all year round. There is a hot spring area where you can enjoy a relaxing bath, as well as an outdoor pool filled with hot spring water, and the view from the pool is outstanding! In addition, the eastern Pyrenees are dotted with numerous hot springs, including the Dore hot springs, which are said to have had baths since Roman times, and the Saint-Thomas hot springs, which feature a huge open-air bath filled with sulfur springs. All of these are wonderful locations where you can experience the majestic nature of the Pyrenees with all your senses, so you're sure to find a hot spring that you like.
Admire the magnificent panorama of the Pyrenees mountains, enjoy playing in the snow at a unique ski resort with its attractive powder snow, and relax in a large open-air bath... A winter holiday at the foot of the mountains is sure to show you a new charm of traveling in France.
Comment
A trip to the Pyrenees in winter allows you to enjoy the beautiful nature and elegant atmosphere that is unique to France. In addition to snow resorts and hot springs, there are many attractions such as gourmet food, shopping, and the Pyrenees - Mont Verdu, which was registered as a mixed World Heritage Site in 1997, so be sure to take your time and enjoy your trip to the Pyrenees.
The contents published are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
