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Sporting & Leisure Activities in Luz Saint Sauveur

Luzea Spa and Well-being Centre
Thermal spas are typical of most of the Pyrenean ski resorts and are one of the must try experiences. Open all year, the Luzea Spa and Well-being Centre offers a range of treatments using its natural spa water which is rich in sulphur and rare gases. The spa water, with a natural temperature of 32 degrees, is a great place to relax and the facilities include swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam and heated marble benches. The spa also offers scrubs and massages from around the world. Signature treatments include Chocolate massages hot rocks, wraps, Oriental scrubs and Chi Yang. A great place to unwind after a hard day on the slopes!

Opening times: All year round, daily. Mon – Fri: 10.00 – 20.45 (School holidays only) 14.00 – 19.00 (other dates); Weekends: 10.00 – 20.45 (School holidays only); 10.00-12.15 & 13.30 – 19.45 (other dates).

Road Cycling and Mountain Biking
The Pyrenean Mountains around Luz saint Sauveur and in the Gaves Valley are a road cyclist's heaven. For the keen road cyclist, the resort of Luz Saint Sauveur offers a wide range of cycling terrain to keep you occupied during your stay; from low rolling valley rides on quiet roads beside mountain streams to the mighty, mystical and imposing Pyrenean climbs of the Tour de France.

There is a good selection of famous cols in reasonable striking distance from your base in the town. Literally on your doorstep is the tough but scenic HC climb up to the summit finish of Luz Ardiden which has also been used in the Vuelta a Espana (Tour of Spain). Disgraced former cyclist Lance Armstrong won here in 2003 while wearing the yellow jersey. Being on the foothills of the Tourmalet, Luz is also well situated for tackling the iconic climb of the Col du Tourmalet. The western ascent of this HC climb is tough and unforgiving, 19km in length at an average gradient of 7.4% with a maximum of 10.2% near the summit!

Further afield, but still within a capable riding distance you have the beautiful Cat1 gladed climb up to the Col d'Aspin and the summit finish in the ski resort of Hautacam. The Hautacam featured in the 2014 edition of the race and the Tourmalet and Aspin are set to return in 2015.

You can even time your efforts on the slopes of Luz Ardiden, Tourmalet and Hautacam by using the Timtoo Timing timekeeping system (chips available from the Tourist Office). Your times are transmitted in real time to the Timtoo website and you can see how you faired against other riders by looking for your time on the leader board!

Why not try one of the cycle sportives that takes place in the area every year such as La Pyreneenne or tackle one of the stages of the Haute Route Pyrenees - one of the toughest multi-day sportives? Of course, if you prefer a more leisurely approach to cycling then why not try a ride along the traffic free 'voie verte' - one of the most scenic cycle paths in France?

For those wanting to catch a glimpse of La Grande Boucle, the route for the coming Tour de France is normally announced in October prior to the race in July (www.letour.fr/le-tour/). So now there is no excuse for not booking your stay well in advance before the rooms start to disappear!

Road Cycling in the Gaves Valley
The bicycle is king in the Grand Tourmalet and Gaves Valley area! The resort and surrounding area’s diverse geography means that you can always find somewhere to cycle no matter what time of year it is.

The Gaves Valley (Vallee des Gaves) extends from Lourdes to the Luz Saint Sauveur. Tour De France fans can follow in the footsteps of their heroes taking on spectacular climbs such as the Col Du Tourmalet, Hautacam and the climb to Luz Ardiden to name but a couple! You can also discover the beautiful surrounding countryside and ride out to mythical natural sites such as “Cirque De Gavarnie,” “Pic Du Midi” and the “Cirque De Troumouse.” Itineraries of the 20 routes in the Gaves Valley are available for purchase at the Tourist Office at a price of €5.

Road Cycling in the Gavarnie-Gèdre area
You will find some hidden gems for steep road lovers to tackle here.

Col des Tentes climb: Situated in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage area, the little known Col des Tentes is a wonderful climb. At 2208m, it is the highest road in all of the Pyrenees and has an elevation gain of 1208m over its 19km from the village of Gèdre.

The Cirque de Troumouse climb: A wonderful climb with some of the most amazing scenery for a backdrop - that is if you can find the time to enjoy it as you labour up the climb! It is almost as high as the Tentes, rising up to 2100m over 17km, again, from Gèdre.

Mountain biking in the Gaves Valley
The Gaves Valley (Vallee des Gaves) extends from Lourdes to the Pays Toy (Toy Country) surrounding Luz Saint Sauveur. This whole area has a huge mountain bike area with no less than 73 circuits catering for all levels. These mountain bike trails have been designed by cycling professionals and are accredited by the French Cycling Federation.

To ensure all-terrain cycling safety, these routes are checked and maintained several times a year. In this valley which is also a gateway to the Pyrenees National Park, you will be able to experience the most beautiful sights whilst travelling on two wheels. You have access to 100% off-road routes in authentic landscapes which are safeguarded through pastoral activity.

Easy forest circuits, accessible to all are available in the Barèges area, on the Plateau de Lienz or in the Luz valley. Other more exhilarating and demanding routes in medium or high mountain reserves offer exceptional views. Try the Cirque de Gavarnie, Pic du Midi or the Néouvielle nature Reserve. Itineraries of the 42 circuits and routes in the Gaves Valley are available for purchase at the Tourist Office at a price of €5.

Lourdes, Pic du Jer Funicular
59, Avenue Francis-Lagardere, 65100 Lourdes, Tel: +33 (0)562 940041. www.picdujer.fr . Email: picdujer@ville-lourdes.fr
Opening times:
Low season (10 April – 6 July & 15 September – 2 November): 10.00 – 17.00. Last ascent: 17.15.
High season (07 July – 14 September): 09.15 – 19.00. Last ascent: 18.00.
Price: Ascent/7.50€, ½ day pass/15€

Take the funicular railway to go up and the mountain bike to go down! There are permanently maintained trails that return you (and your bike) back to the foot of the funicular. The first trail is a challenging descent, classified as black, and should only be attempted by experienced downhill mountain bikers. The trail was used as recently as May 2014 for the French Downhill Mountain Bike Championships. The trail has attained a certain notoriety and is extremely popular with all the downhiller riders from the region as well as riders from the north of Spain.
The second trail is a much more sedate affair and ideal for families and novice riders. The 5km cross country trail takes you along pleasant, gladed tracks that return you safely to the lower funicular station.

Cycling the green routes of the Gaves Valley
Tel: +33 (0)562 426498. www.voiesvertes.com
This disused railway track has been converted into a scenic walking path connecting Lourdes to Soulom (35km round trip). This cycle path is open to everybody – walkers, roller skaters (mountain bikes are tolerated) and is food for families, friends or sole walkers. You can take the walk at your own pace and can take in sections of the walk or complete the3 whole route. Beware of the false flats however – a killer on the calves!!
Taking in the banks of the “Gave de Pau” river between Lourdes and Pierrefitte- Nestalas it passes through small villages of the Lavedan” area of the Pyrenees such as Lugagnan, Geu, Ger and Boo-Silhen. Getting all the way to Argeles-Gazost is an accomplishment in itself – as you have to remember that the return journey awaits you!! There are amazing views of the Pyrenees and nature galore.

Grand Tourmalet Mountain Bike Park
There is also a MTB bike park at the nearby Grand Tourmalet resort with its lift-accessed downhill trails that are suitable for riders of all abilities. Runs are graded from Green (easy) to Black (expert) just like the ski slopes for ease of use. Many of the trails have a vertical drop difference of 300m! There are also Enduro trails that can be accessed from the bike park where you will find a good selection of MTB trails from gladed downhill singletrack to long mountain descents suitable for a wide range of abilities.

The Tourist Office of Luz offers a specific guidebook of MTB trails in the local area which is for sale at a price of 5€ (42 circuits).

Hiking and walking around Luz Saint Sauveur
There are plenty of walks in and around Luz saint Sauveur taking in the stunning nature and scenery. From high altitude walks on the surrounding mountains and cols to the gentler walks around the town, there is something for everyone.
See our activities nearby section for more info in the surrounding area.
Below are a couple of local walks

Napoleon's Walk is a very easy walk allowing you to discover the typical architecture of the nineteenth century buildings in Luz as well as the local amenities, i.e. climbing wall, adventure play park and tennis courts.

The Saint Marie Castle Walk can be made from the nearby village of Ezquièze- Sère or Esterre or from the village of Luz itself. It enables you to see the ruins of the imposing castle of Sainte-Marie and enjoy one of the best viewpoints overlooking the village of Luz from its ramparts

The Waterfalls Walk is a water walk during which you will climb behind gushing waterfalls (in the springtime), the walk ends at the Hountalade thermal water source.

Mountain walking/Hiking in the Pyrenees National Park
http://www.parc-pyrenees.com/decouverte/randonner/itineraires-randonnee.html

The Pyrenees National park stretches for 100km from east to west, from the Aure Valley to the Aspe Valley. The park is made up of six valleys and the link above tells you about walks in each of the valleys.
Vallée d'Aspe (the Aspe valley)
Vallée d'Ossau (the Ossau Valley)
Val d'Azun (the Azun valley),
Vallée de Cauterets (Cauterets valley)
Vallée de Luz (Luz valley)
Vallée d'Aure (the Aure valley).
Within all of these valleys there are some amazing walks and hikes up into the mountains and through the beautiful valleys.
Itineraries are available at the Tourist office and at any of the visitor centres in Saint-Lary, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Gavarnie, Cauterets and Arrens-Marsous.

You can book an accredited guide to take you into the high mountain areas to enjoy the views of the surrounding Gaves Valley.
Luz Guides, Place du 8 mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928728 or (0)672 009858. Email: contacts@guides-de-luz.fr

Hike caching in the Gaves Valley with GPS
Luz is your gateway to the Gaves valley where you may discover a broad range of sites. Take a look at the list below to see just a few of the fascinating places you can visit!

Hike Caching is another way to discover the mountains both in summer and winter. It is hiking with the aid of a GPS which transforms the experience into a treasure hunt. A true sense of freedom, of recreation for all the family. This is a great way to reconnect with nature, to listen to its sounds and be amazed by all the treasures that meet the eye.

The Tourist Office in collaboration with the French Hiking association has developed an innovative way for young and old to explore Luz saint Sauveur. Using GPS follow clues and navigate and explore the village at the same time. Contact the local Tourist Office for more details.

Néouvielle Nature Reserve
Cirque of Gavarnie
Col du Tourmalet and the Pic du Midi
Cauterets-Pont d'Espagne
The Cirques of Estaube and Troumouse
Lourdes

Walking the green routes of the Gaves Valley
Tel: +33 (0)562 426498. www.voiesvertes.com
This disused railway track has been converted into a scenic walking path connecting Lourdes to Soulom (35km round trip). This cycle path is open to everybody – walkers, roller skaters (mountain bikes are tolerated) and is food for families, friends or sole walkers. You can take the walk at your own pace and can take in sections of the walk or complete the3 whole route. Beware of the false flats however – a killer on the calves!!
Taking in the banks of the “Gave de Pau” river between Lourdes and Pierrefitte- Nestalas it passes through small villages of the Lavedan” area of the Pyrenees such as Lugagnan, Geu, Ger and Boo-Silhen. Getting all the way to Argeles-Gazost is an accomplishment in itself – as you have to remember that the return journey awaits you!! There are amazing views of the Pyrenees and nature galore.

The "GR 10" hiking footpath
This famous hiking path crosses the Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. There are 12 stages that pass through the Hautes Pyrenees and due to the steepness of some routes, the GR10, it should only be navigated by experienced hikers. Signs are in white and red.

The stages in the Hautes Pyrenees include
Gourette- Arrens-Marsous: 12 km – 5 hours 30 minutes
Arrens-Marsous - lac d'Estaing: 15 km - 2 hours 50 minutes
Lac d'Estaing - lac d'Ilhéou: 4 km - 4 hours 45 minutes
Lac d'Ilhéou - Cauterets: 10 km - 2 hours 45 minutes
Cauterets - lac de Gaube: 2 km - 2 hours 50 minutes
Lac de Gaube – Vignemale: 5 km - 4 hours
Vignemale - refuge Bayssellance: 2, 5 km –hours 35 minutes
Refuge Bayssellance – Gavarnie: 9 km - 5 hours 50 minutes
Gavarnie - Luz-Saint-Sauveur: 24 km - 8 hours 35 minutes
Luz-Saint-Sauveur – Barèges: 10 km - 5 hours
Barèges - lac Estagnol: 15 km - 4 hours
Lac Estagnol - Refuge de l'Oule: 4 km - 5 hours
Refuge de l'Oule -Saint-Lary: 18 km - 6 hours 35 minutes
Saint-Lary – Loudenvielle: 9 km - 4 hours 20 minutes
Loudenvielle - lac d'Ôo: 29 km - 9 hours
Lac d'Ôo - Bagnères-de-Luchon: 12 km - 08 hours 30 minutes

Hiking around the Cirques in the Gavarnie territory (see Natural sights for more info)
This is easy due to their accessibility. These majestic high mountains with their magical hiking and walking routes get right to the heart of the countryside so the whole family can fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Pyrenees! For those who think that hiking is an all too strenuous activity, you can simply enjoy the spectacular scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage site from one of the bar terraces while savouring an ice cold drink!

The cirques of Gavarnie, Troumouse and Estaubé have the easiest routes, with plenty of 2 hour round trips. Be sure to take the following items with you: water, a sugary snack, a hat, sunglasses, sun cream, something warm to wear, a waterproof, hiking boots, plastic bag for taking your litter home.

A pamphlet is on sale in Gèdre and Gavarnie National Park visitor centres (Gavarnie, Tel: +33(0)562924248) and costs €1. Written in English, this pamphlet describes 16 hiking tours in the area including the Gavarnie, Troumouse and Estaubé cirques. You will also find a lot of documentation about Pyrenees fauna and flora at the visitor centres along with a free permanent exhibition on the Pyrenees.

The Cirque of Gavarnie has the most spectacular scenery during the summer months and provides an amazing backdrop to walks and hikes with almost endless route possibilities. The starting point for all of the walks will be from the village of Gavarnie. Many easy walks and hikes ranging from 2-5 hours are possible and reward you with numerous view points of the cirque and its waterfall. For a different perspective, it is also possible to walk to the bottom of Europe's highest where you get a full appreciation of the vast and high wall of the Gavarnie Cirque.

Cirque of Troumous can be accessed directly by car - watch for the turn on your left on the road up to Gavarnie just as you leave Gedre. From the parking beneath the cirque, there are some short and easy walks ranging from 30mins to 3 hours.
If you are feeling very energetic, you can leave the car at the parking near Heas church in the valley and take a 5 hour hike up to Troumouse! Either way, the road up to Troumouse is stunning and offers many spectacular vistas.

Cirque of Estaubé is the least famous of the cirques but just as stunning. Starting from the parking at the Gloriettes dam you can discover this beautiful area by taking a simple walk along a babbling mountain stream. This walk is really easy, lasting around 2 and a half hours, and is great for spotting marmots!

Luz outdoor swimming pool
65120 Luz Saint Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928360.
Three supervised outdoor pools await you during the summer: a paddling pool for toddlers, a medium pool with water slide for children and a 25m pool for swimmers. The swimming pool was entirely renovated in 2013 and is open every day from late June to early September from 10am to 7pm.
There is also beach volleyball and swimming classes on offer as well as a pool snack-bar.

Bowling
Bowling Le Txoko, 17 Avenue Bareges | Esquièze Sère, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33562923557
The ten pin bowling alley has 4 lanes at your disposal and is a great way to relax and have fun with friends and family. Large groups wanting to bowl are advised to contact the bowling alley directly to reserve lanes. Rates: €6* (*Price per person per game, shoe rental included) There are also video games available in the bowling alley.
There is also a bar and restaurant on site (see “Restaurants” and “Bars” section)

Tennis
Tourist Office, Place du 8 Mai, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 923030. www.luz.org/
You can knock around the little yellow ball all year long here in Luz Saint Sauveur as there is an indoor court. Reservations can be made at the Tourist office.

Climbing wall
Located in the “Quartier thermal” this climbing wall is free of charge and has 8 climbing routes.

Bungee Jumping
This is the epic must do activity in Luz saint Sauveur. And a unique way to admire the peaks whilst upside down
Bungee jumping from Napoleon’s bridge is a 90m jump whilst releases a huge surge of pure adrenalin.
Date and time: twice a week during the summer and once a month for the rest of the year.
Booking:
Luz Aventure, 6 route de Barèges, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33 (0)562 923347. Email: luz-aventure@wanadoo.fr.
OR
Luz Guides, Place du 8 mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928728 or (0)672 009858. Email: contacts@guides-de-luz.fr

Tree top Adventure Park
Route de Gavarnie, 65120 Luz Saint Sauveur. Mobile: +33(0)682 401221. www.encheneetfrene.fr
The nearby adventure park of “En Chêne et Frêne” (In oak and Ash trees) is located at the exit of Luz saint Sauveur on the road towards Gavarnie. The park welcomes you with an acrobatic walk amongst the treetops by way of zip cords, monkey bridges, Nepalese bridges and Tarzan swings. The activity is open to children as young as 4 years old.

Via Ferrata
The Via Ferrata in Luz Saint Sauveur is free and open to all. The starting point of the way is on the lower right bank of the Napoleon Bridge. You will need your own equipment to clip on and off of the iron ropes that are used when scaling the walls on the Via Ferrata. These can be hired at sports shops in the village.
Booking:
Luz Aventure, 6 route de Barèges, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33 (0)562 923347. Email: luz-aventure@wanadoo.fr.
OR
Luz Guides, Place du 8 mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928728 or (0)672 009858. Email: contacts@guides-de-luz.fr

Paragliding
A great way to discover the Pyrenees! Flying high above the beautiful Pyrenees looking down on the mountains and villages below as you glide like a bird. A great way to get a bird's eye view of the peaks.
Anyone with a good level of physical fitness can take to the skies in the experienced hands of a team of highly trained instructors.
There are Introductory tandem flights, week-long courses for beginners and advanced fliers on offer at Luz saint Sauveur.
The take-off spots in the valley are: Luz Ardiden ski station, Col du Tourmalet and Pic du Midi de Bigorre
Booking:
Luz Aventure, 6 route de Barèges, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33 (0)562 923347. Email: luz-aventure@wanadoo.fr.
OR
Luz Guides, Place du 8 mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928728 or (0)672 009858. Email: contacts@guides-de-luz.fr

Fishing
Luz-Saint-Sauveur is great for those with a passion for fishing. Whether it is fly or cast fishing, in lakes or rivers, you can learn how to track the famous Pyrenees brown trout. Furthermore, with 42 mountain lakes, and 300km of rivers there will be plenty to keep you busy.
There are a fishing school and fishing guides at your disposal and for the younger members of the family there are introductory courses to fishing in the summer.
The Tourist Office has a leaflet specifically for fishing available free of charge

Cinema
Cinema at the Maison de la Vallee (Cultural Centre), 24 Place Saint Clement, Luz St Sauveur, Tel: +33562923838. Evening showings at the Maison de la Vallee are every Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday either at 5 or 9pm. For listings please check: http://maisondelavallee.org

Rafting
Treat yourself to a fun escapade on gentle or lively white water Gave de Pau. Discover the Gave de Pau River by raft, mini-raft or canoe.
Discovery escapade: Rafting or canoeing: departure from Luz with transfer towards the river.
Date and time: twice daily.

The tea-time escapade: Rafting with meeting point directly on the river bank.
Date and time: daily at 16:00 In July and August only

Full day mixed escapade: Rafting or canoeing, pic-nic on the river bank.
Date and time: On request, (according to availability)

Booking:
Luz Aventure, 6 route de Barèges, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33 (0)562 923347. Email: luz-aventure@wanadoo.fr.
OR
Luz Guides, Place du 8 mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928728 or (0)672 009858. Email: contacts@guides-de-luz.fr

Canoeing
Treat yourself to a fun escapade on gentle or lively white water Gave de Pau. Discover the Gave de Pau River by raft, mini-raft or canoe.
Discovery escapade: Rafting or canoeing: departure from Luz with transfer towards the river.
Date and time: twice daily.

The tea-time escapade: Rafting with meeting point directly on the river bank.
Date and time: daily at 16:00 In July and August only

Full day mixed escapade: Rafting or canoeing, pic-nic on the river bank.
Date and time: On request, (according to availability)

Canyoning
Discover the wild and beautiful fresh water river canyons of the Pyrenees. This fun activity takes you on a discovery trip of local canyons in the Gaves valley. You will be able to learn the four disciplines of the canyoning - swimming, walking, rappelling and jumping in to the fresh water pools.

Luz St Sauveur is the ideal base for canyoning. Ossoue Canyon, Gloriettes Canyon and Heas Canyon are three of the canyons located within 30 minutes of Luz saint Sauveur. There are half and full day options available in the nearby canyons.
Booking:

Luz Guides, Place du 8 mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928728 or (0)672 009858. Email: contacts@guides-de-luz.fr

Rock climbing
Scale these impressive mountains at close range on a rock climbing day. Professional guides teach you how to use mountaineering equipment and safety tips when in the mountains. Short beginner courses are available and vary in difficulty whilst taking in classic climbing routes in the area in the Gavarnie, Néouvielle or Vignemale ranges.
Whatever your level, you will enjoy scaling the heights of these granite and limestone mountain routes
Booking:
Luz Aventure, 6 route de Barèges, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33 (0)562 923347. Email: luz-aventure@wanadoo.fr.
OR
Luz Guides, Place du 8 mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928728 or (0)672 009858. Email: contacts@guides-de-luz.fr

Horse Riding
Discover the surrounding area and tranquil locations in this valley on horseback. As a beginner or an experienced rider, there are outings of a few hours or a whole day. From babbling streams, mountain lakes and small villages to the iconic sites of Pic du Midi and the Néouvielle Natural Reserve
Claudine Lafont, Ferme Equestre Plateau de Lienz, 65120 Barèges. Tel: +33(0)562 929601 or (0)562 921930.
Note: See Cirque of Gavarnie for other possibilities.

Horse Riding the Cirque of Gavarnie is great as an alternative to hiking and walking, why not discover the Gavarnie Cirque on horseback. From Easter through to November you can visit the cirque by renting and riding a horse (or a donkey) for a 2 or 3 hour ride. A great experience for kids and adults and a great day out for the family. The horses are available for rent at the start of the walk up to The Cirque in Gavarnie at the end of the village.
For experienced horse riders, it is possible to discover wild and amazing landscapes accompanied by a guide.

Culture and Heritage in Luz Saint Sauveur

Maison Vallee Events & Exhibition Centre
Maison Vallee, 24 Place Saint Clement, Luz St Sauveur, Tel: +33562923838.
The Maison Vallee is there to ensure that you have fun in Luz saint Sauveur. The buildings superb architecture and its rooms inside will seduce you as much as the shows and exhibitions that are staged here.
Tucked away in the eaves of this spectacular building that dates from the time of the Knights Templar, the National Park house will reveal the riches of the Pyrenees Mountains.
There is also a Cybercafé, a multimedia library and library tucked away in the Centre and cinema and concerts take place throughout the year.

Church of the Knights Templer
The church was built at the end of the 11th century by the Saint Andre family, (not by the Knights Templer as the name implies) and later on during the 14th century was donated by the family descendants to the Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem. This monastic brotherhood who tended to the ill and sick had two other hospitals in the area, one at Gavarnie and the other at Héas. The brotherhood also welcomed pilgrims on the Route of Saint James Santiago at the church.

Napoleon’s Bridge
Napoleon’s Bridge was also constructed under the orders of Napoleon III to thank the inhabitants of saint Sauveur for their warm welcome. The bungee jumps from the bridge in summer time are a must for thrill seekers.

Solferino chapel
Before Napoleon II passed through the village of Saint Sauveur, the Solferino mound as it was then known, was called the Saint Pierre hermitage. These ancient ruins attracted the attention of Napoleon III and during his stay here with empress Eugenie, he order a chapel to be built on the mound and named it the Solferino chapel in homage to the emperor. Today the chapel is part of a lovely family walk that connects Luz to Saint Sauveur. The chapel is a 15-20 minute walk from Luz centre.
Price: Entry is free of charge

Saint Marie’s Castle
This pretty castle located on a small hill close to the centre of town dates from the 10th century and was restored in the 80’s. It is one of the most important remains in the area and from its castle one can see the whole surrounding area of this pretty are known as the Pays Toys.
Price: Entry is free of charge

The Saint Marie Castle Walk can be made from the nearby village of Ezquièze- Sère or Esterre or from the village of Luz itself. It enables you to see the ruins of the imposing castle of Sainte-Marie and enjoy one of the best viewpoints overlooking the village of Luz from its ramparts.

Jazz Festival
For more than 10 years, Luz Saint Sauveur has been host to a spectacular jazz festival. At the beginning of July for four days the entire village is filled Jazz music from around the world. Concerts, devilish fanfares, street theatre and even music workshops for the children.

The town of Lourdes
One cannot come to the Pyrenees without visiting Lourdes. Whatever your denomination, or not, this spiritual capital of Europe has to be a must.
Located in the “Vallee des Gaves” (Valley of rivers) the town of Lourdes is surrounded by high mountain peaks in a wide valley that was formed thousands of years ago by a glacier that hung above the summits of the “Vignemale” mountains and carved its way through the earth creating this amazing valley.

Up until the mid-19th century, Lourdes was just a small and charming Pyrenean market town whose most prominent feature at the time was the fortified castle that rises up from a rocky escarpment at its centre.

All this was to change on the 11th February in 1858 when a local peasant girl by the name of Bernadette Soubourious is said to have witnessed several Marian apparitions (a supernatural appearance by the Blessed Virgin Mary) in a grotto on an outcrop of rock called Massabielle near to the town. After authentication of these appearances by the Catholic Church, Lourdes became a place of Catholic Pilgrimage and healing.

Today, Lourdes is one of the most visited places in Catholic Christendom. It is home to some 15,000 inhabitants, but it is able to take in some 5,000,000 pilgrims and tourists every season. One of the world’s leading Catholic Marian shrines, it has such an important place within the Roman Catholic Church, that Pope John Paul II visited the shrine twice: on 15 August 1983, and 14–15 August 2004. In 2007, Pope Benedict XVI authorized special indulgences to mark the 150th anniversary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Since 1860, it is estimated that 200 million people have visited the shrine whose spring water from the grotto is believed by some to possess healing properties. The Roman Catholic Church has officially recognized 69 healings considered to be miraculous based on Church criteria for authenticity and authentic miracle healing with no physical or psychological basis other than the healing power of the water.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is something which still divides opinion. Many believe the site to be nothing more than a Catholic Disneyland (which probably has much to do with the appearance of the Rosary Basilica) and a commercial venture by the Church. For many of the millions of dedicated pilgrims that travel to Lourdes it is a place of hope and great spirituality. However, the best way to make up your mind is to visit Lourdes, which remains a place of renowned interest – even to those who are spiritually inclined.

Getting to Lourdes

Car: Lourdes is approx. 29km from Luz Saint Sauveur and takes approx. 30 minutes to reach.

By bus:
Ma Ligne's Network: Regular services to Lourdes between June and September.
Price: Single Adult/2€; Single child (4 -12 years)/1€.
Departures days: Daily
Departure Times: Click on the link below
http://www.transports-maligne.fr/docs/Maligne_des_Gaves_TarbesLourdesPierrefitteGavarnie.pdf

By Bus/Rail:
TER Midi-Pyrénées' Network: timetables for bus and train travel in the area
Departure Times: Click on the link below.
http://www.ter.sncf.com/midi-pyrenees/

Natural Wonders & Wildlife in Luz Saint Sauveur

The Pyrenees abounds with many of nature’s wonders and if you many to exhaust the wealth of activities in and around Luz saint Sauveur, there are many more accessible by car or public transport. You will find famous sites such as the Cirque of Gavarnie, the Pont d’Espagne and the Pic du Midi as well as caves and National Parks.

Cirque of Gavarnie
Straddling the French-Spanish border and overlooking the Spanish canyons of Añisclo, Pineta and the mythical Ordesa, the territory of Gavarnie is part of the "Pyrénées-Mont Perdu, cirques and canyons" national park, and recognised as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Comprising of three cirques, each very different from the other, these incredible natural bowls have been carved out by ancient glaciers in grey, ochre and pink limestone rock and thrust up to an altitude of 3000 metres by unimaginable geological forces.

The cirques offer fine examples of the 'nappe' (term stems from the French word for tablecloth in allusion to a crumpled tablecloth being pushed across a table) type of rock formation - a large sheet like body of rock that has been moved in excess of 2km above a thrust fault from its original position. They form when a mass of rock is forced over another rock mass, typically on a low angle fault plane. The resulting structure may include large-scale recumbent folds, shearing along the fault plane, imbricate thrust stacks, fensters and klippe.

Located in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, which was established in 1967, the territory houses an extremely rich, fragile and well-preserved flora and fauna and offers one of the most spectacular landscapes that you will ever have the opportunity to see.

Of the three cirques, the Gavarnie Cirque is perhaps the most famous. With a diameter of 6.5km and an almost sheer rock wall of 1500m it is an impressive sight. At the heart of the cirque, falling from a height of 427m, is the largest waterfall in Europe. Gavarnie is the only one of the three cirques that is accessible all year round.

Cirque of Troumouse
The Troumouse Cirque is as equally impressive as the Gavarnie Cirque. It may not be as high and imposing as Gavarnie, but what it lacks it height it more than makes up for in diameter. At around 11km in diameter, it is almost double that of the neighbouring Gavarnie. The area around Troumouse is a popular pastoral site and during the summer months it’s not uncommon to see shepherds and their flocks of sheep. The ubiquitous marmot can be seen scampering over rocks and scree and the terrain is a paradise for the isard - the symbolic Pyrenean wild animal.

Cirque of Estaubé
Finally, the Estaubé Cirque is perhaps the most wild. Estaubé sits resolutely between Gavarnie and Troumouse, rising up from the still shores of the Gloriettes Lake. The lake was created when the single arch dam was built from 1948-52 and provides a stunning setting. For those keen on extended hikes, Estaubé also offers some of the most beautiful routes up the Mont Perdu. For those who enjoy a more leisurely walk, a short hike around the lake offers many rewarding vistas.

Gavarnie Village (gateway to the Cirques)
The village of Gavarnie is situated on what was once a major route through the Pyrenees near the Boucharo pass some 7.5km away. A visit to the church of Gavarnie was a must for travellers who asked for the protection of the Virgin of the Good Pass before taking the road to Spain.

In 1794, at the time of the war between the first Republic and the coalition of neighbouring monarchies, the Boucharo pass was subject to special supervision on the French side. The French army was sent to protect the territory from Spanish incursions. The mountain cabin that was used to house the soldiers can still be seen on the route to Boucharo.

Gavarnie is also the birthplace of Pyrenean Mountaineering - a combination of climbing and mountain culture and the romanticism of high places - and is the birthplace of some of the most well-known French mountaineers; including the Passet family and François Bernat-Salles.

Sights in Gavarnie

Millaris Museum
Place de la Bergère, 65120, Gèdre. Tel: +33(0)562923525. Email:millaris@gavarnie.com
The museum offers a complete and unique insight into the land of the cirques using fun and interactive mediums. It demonstrates the culture of the area and highlights the importance of the water (mills, hydroelectric), agriculture, pastoralism and the UNESCO World Heritage award. There is also an audio visual show as well as disabled access.
Prices: Adult/5€; Child/ 2€; Group rate/3€

Gavarnie Church
65120, Gavarnie
The church of Notre-Dame du Bon Port was built by the monks of Saint John of Jerusalem in the 12th century. The present church dates mainly from the early 19th century with some remnants of the 14th. The church houses antiquities of the medieval era: from 15th century furniture to statues and relics of the famous Templar skulls. It is located on one of the routes to St Jacques de Compostela and is therefore classified as a St-Jacques World Heritage path.

Moulins de Gedre Dessus
65120, Gèdre, Tel: +33(0)562923525
These water mills provide a window to the past and demonstrate rural and rustic life from a bygone era. Situated on the Gave de Campbieil River, the villages of Gavarnie-Dessus and Moules Dera contain five mills, each belonging to different families of the village. They were still being used in the 70s - the final one stopped in 1985. Visitors can discover the delights of these mills using a small self-guided, interpretive trail equipped with panels that detail their workings and history. Guided tours on request.
Prices: Adult/1€; Child/0.50€

Getting there
Car: Gavarnie is approx. 20km from Luz Saint Sauveur and takes approx. 30 minutes to reach.

By bus:
Ma Ligne's Network: Regular services to Gèdre and Gavarnie between June and September.
Price: Single Adult/2€; Single child (4 -12 years)/1€.
Departures days: Daily
Departure Times: Click on the link below
http://www.transports-maligne.fr/docs/Maligne_des_Gaves_TarbesLourdesPierrefitteGavarnie.pdf

By Bus/Rail:
TER Midi-Pyrénées' Network: timetables for bus and train travel in the area
Departure Times: Click on the link below.
http://www.ter.sncf.com/midi-pyrenees/  

Pont d’Espagne
“Pont D’Espagne” also known as “little Canada of the Pyrenees” is a prestigious site in the very heart of the Pyrenees National Park. Not only is it one of the “Grand sites” of the Midi Pyrenees region but it is also an area of great natural beauty. During the summer months you will be mesmerised by its fairy-tale state and small walking paths leading amongst heavy pine forests. With its sublime panoramas and gushing waterfalls it is an exceptional setting for walking and hiking.
The “Lac de Gaube” lake is situated high in the Pont D’Espagne (1725m).and is a 15 minute walk/ski from “Belvedere” viewing point at the top of the “Gaube” chairlift.