Pyrenees Ski Resorts

Pyrenees: Long Tree-lined Runs; 38 Mountain Resorts - The Pyrenees is a vast range of mountains that forms a natural border between France and Spain. The area is characterised by great passes, lofty waterfalls, and lush forests. The French Pyrenees is divided into the regions of Pyrenees-Orientales, Aude, Ariege, Haute-Garonne, Hautes-Pyrenees, and... Full Overview

Pyrenees: Long Tree-lined Runs; 38 Mountain Resorts -

The Pyrenees is a vast range of mountains that forms a natural border between France and Spain. The area is characterised by great passes, lofty waterfalls, and lush forests. The French Pyrenees is divided into the regions of Pyrenees-Orientales, Aude, Ariege, Haute-Garonne, Hautes-Pyrenees, and Pyrenees-Atlantiques. The mountains are home to 38 French ski resorts and 1000 kilometres of cross-country trails.

Les Angles is the largest ski resort in the French Pyrenees and is known for its pretty tree-lined runs and lakes. It is particularly popular among intermediate and advanced skiers with half of its runs being red. The resort centre also features plenty of amenities, including stylish boutiques, restaurants, and street cafes.

The popular resort of Saint Lary Soulan is one of the best ski areas in the Pyrenees with 100 kilometres of pistes, including a long 3.6-kilometre run. It is also the training site of the Spanish national ski team. It offers well groomed tree-lined slopes, moguls, plenty of off-piste, powder bowls, a toboggan run, and a good selection of modern amenities including shops, bars and restaurants. The 53 pistes are served by 32 lifts and suit all levels, with six green runs, 24 blue, 14 red, and nine black.

At 2600 metres altitude, Piau-Engaly holds the title for the highest resort in the French Pyrenees. Its 40 kilometres of pistes benefit from excellent snow cover and offer something for all levels, with five green runs, 20 blue, nine red, and six black.

The villages of Bareges and La Mongie combine to form the resort of Tourmalet - the largest ski resort in the French Pyrenees. The ski area ranges from 1800 to 2500 metres altitude and offers a wide range of runs, including 23 green, 19 blue, 21 red, and six black. Snowboarders can practise tricks in the snowpark.

The old spa town of Cauterets is home to 35 kilometres of pistes, 37 kilometres of cross-country trails, and a snowpark. The runs reach a height of 2400 metres altitude and include four green, nine blue, seven red, and two black. Font Romeu is one of the oldest resorts in the region and features sunny slopes and a pretty, old historic centre.

Advanced skiers favour Cerdagne-Puigmal for its seven long and challenging black runs and 16 red. At 2600 metres, it is also one of the highest resorts in the Pyrenees and boasts reliable snow cover.

Family favourites include Luz Ardiden with its wide selection of slopes and accommodation, friendly atmosphere and quiet après-ski scene. Val de Louon is also ideal for children and beginners with its wide gentle slopes and relaxed setting.

The peaceful resort of Cambre-d'Aze offers pretty tree-lined pistes and panoramic views. Its 35 kilometres of pistes are lined with snow cannons and offer gentle runs for beginners and wide intermediate slopes.

Other ski resorts in the French Pyrenees include Formigueres, Puyvalador, Porte-Puymorens, Peyragudes, and Superbagneres. The nearest airport is Tarbes-Ossun-Lourdes. Regular international flights, including budget airlines, also connect numerous European cities with the surrounding airports of Toulouse, Perpignan and Barcelona.

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