Snowshoeing & gastronomy in the Pyrenees

Toulouse - Saint-lary-soulan

Day 1: Welcome to France

Upon arriving at Toulouse airport, you'll pick up your hire car (not included in the package) and embark on a scenic 1h 45m drive toward the stunning Pyrenees mountains. The journey takes you down the autoroute, with the majestic peaks gradually coming into view.

After exiting at Lannemezan, enjoy a picturesque drive through the Aure Valley, leading to the charming village of Saint-Lary-Soulan nestled in a dramatic mountain landscape. Once settled into your accommodation, savor a delightful evening meal before unwinding for the night, ready to embrace the beauty of the Pyrenees.

Saint-lary-soulan

Day 2: Snowshoeing through the mountains

Begin your day by leisurely exploring the charming village of Saint-Lary-Soulan. Wander through its quaint streets, browsing local specialty food shops and artisanal boutiques, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Pause at a cozy café for a café crème and indulge in some relaxing people-watching, soaking in the village's laid-back atmosphere.

In the afternoon, embark on a snowshoeing adventure through the pristine winter landscape. Led by an expert local guide, you'll venture along snowy trails, keeping an eye out for animal tracks—perhaps those of deer, foxes, or even a brown bear. As you trek through the snow, don't forget to scan the skies for sightings of Griffon or Bearded vultures, adding a thrilling wildlife element to this peaceful excursion. Make sure to wear waterproof walking boots for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Saint-lary-soulan - Barthe-de-neste - Saint-lary-soulan

Day 3: Chocolate tasting & relaxation

Start your day with a visit to Bernardino, a master chocolatier in the village of La Barthe-de-Neste, just 25 minutes from Saint-Lary-Soulan. Watch him create unique chocolate masterpieces in his workshop and sample his delicious creations, perfect for gifts to take home.

In the afternoon, unwind at the Balnea thermal spa in Loudenvielle, set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop. Relax in the warm outdoor pools for a 2-hour session, a serene experience made even more magical by the snowy surroundings.

Saint-lary-soulan

Day 4: Another day in a winter wonderland

Begin your day with an easy 2-hour snowshoe excursion, led by a local guide, taking you along a stunning ridgeline high above the Aure Valley. This adventure offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered Pyrenees, immersing you in the winter wonderland of the mountains.

After your trek, reward yourself with a hearty traditional lunch of garbure, a warming mountain stew of tarbais beans, ham, cabbage, and vegetables, served in a cozy auberge nestled in a small mountainside hamlet—perfect for a chilly winter day.

Saint-lary-soulan

Day 5: Snowshoeing & a delightful afternoon tea

Embark on a leisurely 2-hour afternoon snowshoeing excursion, guided through the serene, snow-covered forests overlooking the picturesque Aure Valley. As you take in the tranquil winter landscape, your efforts will be rewarded with a delightful afternoon tea featuring freshly made crêpes and your choice of a comforting hot chocolate or a warming mulled wine, the perfect way to end your snowy adventure.

Saint-lary-soulan - Arreau - Saint-lary-soulan

Day 6: Arreau market & torchlit snowshoeing

Begin your day with a visit to the bustling Arreau market, the largest in the region, located just 15 minutes from Saint-Lary-Soulan. This charming medieval town comes alive every Thursday morning, offering a vibrant display of local produce and artisanal goods. Don’t miss the chance to witness this traditional cake being baked over an open fire, just as it has been for centuries in farmhouse kitchens.

In the evening, embark on a torchlit snowshoeing adventure through a serene winter landscape. Afterward, enjoy a hearty tartiflette dinner—a comforting dish of potatoes, bacon, and cheese—paired with local cider at an artisanal producer's cozy setting.

Saint-lary-soulan

Day 7: Your first 2000m summit

Embark on a full-day snowshoeing adventure led by an expert local guide, with the thrilling goal of reaching your first 2000m summit in the Pyrenees. This rewarding excursion combines physical exertion with breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains. As you ascend, you'll be immersed in the stunning winter landscape, making this an unforgettable day of adventure and accomplishment in the heart of the Pyrenees.

Saint-lary-soulan - Toulouse

Day 8: Farewell, France

After a final breakfast in the mountains, you'll check out of your accommodation and embark on a scenic drive back to Toulouse airport. Enjoy the last glimpses of the Pyrenees as you wind through the Aure Valley before merging onto the autoroute for the 1 hour 45 minute journey to the airport, where you'll catch your flight home. Safe travels!