What to Do During the Christmas Holidays in the Hautes-Pyrénées?
Route notebook · Holidays
What to do during the Christmas holidays in the Hautes-Pyrénées?
Starting point. Between skiing, thermal spas and markets, two weeks are never quite enough.
The Christmas holidays in the Hautes-Pyrénées combine snow sports, relaxation and local festivities. Here is how to fill the break without limiting yourself to the slopes.
01 · Skiing
The Grand Tourmalet, between La Mongie and Barèges
★100km
of slopes
The largest ski area in the French Pyrenees remains the flagship activity of the Christmas holidays, about 50 km from Tarbes, with slopes for every level.
02 · For a break
The Aquensis spa in Bagnères-de-Bigorre
After a day on the slopes, the Aquensis thermal centre offers the perfect relaxing interlude, about 30 minutes from La Mongie.
03 · Off the slopes
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Payolle
For non-skiers, the Payolle Nordic site offers snowshoe walks and cross-country skiing surrounded by forest and a frozen lake.
04 · The festive atmosphere
Christmas markets in nearby villages
Several villages in the Hautes-Pyrénées, such as Ibos or Saint-Paul, hold their own Christmas market in late November and early December – a good excuse to leave the slopes for a day.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do during the Christmas holidays in the Hautes-Pyrénées?
Ski at the Grand Tourmalet (La Mongie-Barèges), relax at Aquensis in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, go snowshoeing in Payolle, or visit the Christmas markets in nearby villages.
Where can I ski near Tarbes during the Christmas holidays?
The Grand Tourmalet, about 50 km from Tarbes, remains the largest ski area in the French Pyrenees.
A garment, a memory of adventure. On the slopes as well as in front of a chalet.
Discover the collection →Sources · Tourmalet Pic du Midi
Information verified in September 2026.
