The highest spa in France, at 1250m, Barèges is in a spectacular natural setting, surrounded by forest, and very near the ski slopes. There are over 70 pistes available, and La Mongie ski station is also nearby. So it’s ski heaven in winter!

Furthermore, Barèges is well known for its thermal spas. They are said to be a particularly effective treatment for rheumatism. The town’s main economy throughout the centuries was the healing properties of its thermal springs, with various nobles (such as Mme Maintenon in the 17th century) proclaiming their effectiveness. Due to this, a road was built from Lourdes to Barèges in 1736, and the popularity of the baths grew. In 1868, Michelet wrote: “Nowhere apart from the Pyrenees does one feel so at one with the earth. One feels it at Barèges… the water there is of an undoubtable power…”

Today, the number of spas in the town has dropped, but the reputation of the old town has remained. There are excellent trails through the nearby countryside, particularly the guided walks through the Caubous and Aygues Cluses Valleys.

Tourist Office:
05 62 92 16 00

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