French Pyrenees wilderness hikes & wildlife

Toulouse - Cierp

Day 1: Journey to the mountains

Upon arriving at Toulouse Airport, collect your rental car (not included in your package) and embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive along the autoroute. As you journey through the picturesque landscapes, you'll make your way to your accommodation nestled in the stunning Pyrenees mountains, where your alpine adventure awaits.

Cierp

Day 2: An off-grid adventure

Embark on an off-grid adventure from the charming hamlet of Melles, nestled on the France-Spain border. After a 15-minute drive along a rugged track, meet your expert local wildlife guide and set off on a 7 km hike, climbing approximately 500 meters over the course of 4 to 5 hours.

Traverse rough terrain and sheep trods as you journey through breathtaking mountain landscapes. Along the way, enjoy a delicious picnic of local products provided by your guide. This hike offers stunning vistas and opportunities to spot elusive mountain wildlife, including chamois, bearded vultures, griffon vultures, and possibly even the tracks of elusive brown bears.

Cierp

Day 3: On the tracks of brown bears

Set out early from the picturesque hamlet of Melles for an enthralling day tracking brown bears with a local expert. Prepare for a challenging hike across steep, off-path terrain, covering 10 to 12 kilometers and climbing 600 to 700 meters.

Equip yourself with sturdy, grippy hiking boots for this rugged adventure. Throughout the day, your guide will share insights into the brown bear reintroduction program in the Pyrenees, along with the associated controversies.

Search for paw prints in the mud, gather fur from the bears' favorite tree rubbing spots, and review footage from motion-detection cameras for a chance to see these elusive creatures. Learn about the data collected to monitor the bears and explore the future prospects for these fascinating animals in their natural habitat.

Cierp

Day 4: Hiking above the Luchon Valley

Join your expert guide for a full day of hiking off the beaten path high above the Luchon Valley. With endless hiking possibilities in this stunning region, your guide will customize the route to suit your ability and interests.

In spring and autumn, keep an eye out for herds of red deer, roe deer, and possibly chamois. Throughout the year, you'll likely spot Griffon vultures soaring overhead and, with a bit of luck, catch a glimpse of the elusive bearded vulture (Lammergeier), one of Europe’s rarest birds, which breeds in this pristine environment.

Cierp - Sailhan

Day 5: Thermal spa summer experience

After breakfast, depart from your guest house and head west near Saint-Lary-Soulan, with a scenic drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. For the best views, take a leisurely route through Bagnères-de-Luchon, the Col de Péyresourde, and the Louron Valley.

Enjoy a scenic lunch at La Chapelle on the Superbagneres Plateau, accessible by a bubble lift from Bagnères-de-Luchon. This restaurant, renowned for its local, seasonal produce and acclaimed burgers, offers stunning terrace views.

Relax at the family-friendly Balnea thermal spa in Loudenvielle, set amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. Located 30 minutes from Saint-Lary-Soulan, 15 minutes from Arreau, and 35 minutes from Bagnères-de-Luchon, your package includes a 2-hour visit to the pools. You can visit at your convenience, with opening hours provided in your itinerary.

Sailhan

Day 6: Marmots & birds of prey

Join our expert local guide for an enriching excursion in the scenic Piau Engaly area, known for its vibrant marmots and impressive birds of prey. While this region is a bustling ski resort in winter, it transforms into a haven for wildlife in the warmer months. Discover the shrieking marmots and keep an eye out for the rare bearded vulture soaring overhead. With a variety of hiking trails available, your guide will tailor the day’s adventure to match your ability and interests.

Sailhan - Néouvielle Nature Reserve - Sailhan

Day 7: Hiking in the Néouvielle Reserve

Explore the pristine beauty and diverse wildlife of the Néouvielle Reserve on a guided day hike. Venture off the beaten path to uncover the reserve’s hidden gems, with your guide tailoring the hike to your preferences in terms of distance and elevation. Discover charming lakes and observe vibrant birdlife amidst the trees. For those seeking a challenge, there’s the option to climb one of the reserve’s peaks for sweeping views of the Pyrenees chain.

Sailhan - Toulouse

Day 8: Farewell, France

After breakfast, check out from your accommodation and embark on your journey back to Toulouse Airport for your flight home. Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, reflecting on the memories of your trip as you head towards your departure.