Where To Ski In The French Pyrenees

If you are coming to the French Pyrenees soon, you’re probably aware that the region has some of the best ski resorts in France. Here is a list of the top spots you should stay for a couple of days (or more) when you are in the area.

Saint-Lary-Soulan

Building, Ski Resort

Saint-Lary-Soulan is without a doubt the most popular ski station in the French Pyrenees region. The resort has more than 50 ski tracks, ranging from green to black slopes and covering over 100 kilometres. In addition, it also has toboggan runs and a park, making it perfect for a family vacation. The ski station is only 30 minutes away from the National Park of the Pyrenees.

Font-Romeu

This very popular spot is the combination of the Font-Romeu and Bolquere Pyrenees 2000 ski resorts. Although it has ski tracks available for all levels, there are 22 tracks solely dedicated to cross-country skiing (more than any other station in the Pyrenees), making it an ideal place for those into this form of skiing.

Piau-Engaly

Ski Resort

Located in the Hautes-Pyrenees and culminating at 1850 metres, Piau-Engaly is the highest ski resort in the French Pyrenees. Renowned for its numerous red slopes, the ski resort is a delight for alpine skiing lovers. Moreover, Piau-Engaly also hosts the Derby des Pyrenees every year in which contenders attempt to ski down the tracks as fast as possible. Adrenaline rush guaranteed!

Grandvalira

Situated on the border between France and Andorra, Grandvalira is the biggest ski station in the Pyrenees region. The resort comprises six villages, over 130 alpine skiing tracks, and a wonderful playground for snowboarders with fantastic amenities.

Grand Tourmalet

The Grand Tourmalet includes several villages such as La Mongie and Bagnères de Bigorre, making it the biggest domain in the French Pyrenees. The 68 ski tracks here are a delight for alpine and cross-country ski fans. You can also go for a ski racket walk or sign up for a dog-sled excursion.

Cauterets

Ski Resort

The phrase ‘less is more’ holds true for Cauterets, a small station with only 5 tracks ideal for a ski and wellness retreat. Indeed, the thermal centres in Cauterets are known worldwide for their premium quality and service. Moreover, the scenery is breathtaking and it is a wonderful place for hiking.

Peyragudes

Ski Resort

After visiting Lourdes, you can drive for about an hour and head to Peyragudes, a medium-sized ski resort in the Hautes-Pyrenees. Its ski tracks will easily accommodate beginners and experienced skiers. Make sure to check out the station’s half-pipe and boardercross, they will make your surf sessions go smoothly.

About the author

Jennifer Migan

Jennifer is a speechwriter and a public speaking coach based in Bordeaux, France. She is also a former professional tennis player. She is the founder of The Speech House which helps people (in English and French) to overcome their fear of public speaking and become better communicators. You can follow her on Instagram @jennifer_migan and on her storytelling platform Unique Stories @uniquestories.co.