Argeles-Gazost

Argeles-Gazost, France might be a bit small, but it has a lot to offer. It has a cute and compact downtown lined with shops and cafés, a thermal spa and a casino. It is close to ski slopes, a medieval abbey, several lakes and numerous mountain peaks.

Nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains just a short drive south of Lourdes and close to skiing, this makes an excellent getaway spot for nature-lovers who also prefer to be based in a civilized and charming town.

The name of Argeles-Gazost's department, Hautes-Pyrénées, says it all. It translates to High Pyrenees. The area’s cities, Tarbes, Lourdes and Argeles-Gazost, are nestled into plains and valleys. At almost any spot in this department, you are either on a mountain or have a splendid view of snow-capped peaks.

The French rail system also stops in Tarbes in Lourdes, but not Argèles. If you plan to visit Argelès-Gazost, you will need to rent a car to reach the mountainous area.

Things to Do in Argeles-Gazost

For hiking excursions, consult the local Compagnie des Guides de Haute Montagne des Pyrenees (located on avenue M. Lemettre in Argelès-Gazost), a consortium of area high mountain guides.

Scale the trees above at the Chloro'Fil adventure park. The site has various courses for skill levels as low as a three-year-old.

The Hautes-Pyrénées region boasts an amazing eight thermal spa villages and more than a hundred hot springs. The premier spot is, of course, right at Argelès-Gazost. Neighboring spa towns include Beaucens-les-Bains, Cauterets, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Barèges-Barzun, Bagnères de Bigorre and Aquensis.

This is also a prime area for water sports. Visit the Wild Gaves (located at 2, avenue des Pyrénées in Argelès-Gazost), who offers canoeing, kayaking, rafting and canyoning.

Where to Stay in Argeles-Gazost

Hôtel le Miramont features roomy, art deco chambers and a lush garden. It is situated close to the casino and thermal spas.

Les Cimes is a three-chimney Logis de France hotel. The indoor, heated pool is a major draw, especially after a day of heavy outdoor activities or a cold winter afternoon. The restaurant is another major lure.

Beau Site is a quaint oasis in this small village. The hotel’s terrace has a splendid view of the city center. As a Logis de France member, the cuisine is a primary appeal to a stay here. The rooms are nicely decorated for a two-star.

Camping Soleil du Pibeste may not have an endless array of amenities, but there are two distinct reasons to stay here. The people who run the camp site, especially brothers Luc and Sylvain, are tremendously friendly and helpful. And they are extremely useful when it comes to arranging outdoor activities in the area. The rental mobile homes, chalets and cottages are immaculate, and the setting (with views of mountains on almost all sides) is stunning.