Tourisme Hautes Pyrénées(65)

The High Pyrenees offer a variety of tourist activities that include gastronomy, heritage, and other must-see attractions. Here is a list categorized by type:

Gastronomy
1. Local tasting:
- Cheeses: Pyrenean sheep cheese, such as Bleu des Causses.
- Charcuterie: Bayonne ham, dry sausage.
- Wines: Madiran and Jurançon wines.

2. Local markets:
- Tarbes Market: One of the largest markets in the region, offering fresh and local products.
- Lourdes Market: Ideal for discovering local specialties.

3. Gastronomic restaurants:
- Le Viscos in Saint-Savin: A Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Château de Beaucens: Refined cuisine in a magnificent setting.

Heritage
1. Historical sites:
- Château de Mauvezin: Well-preserved medieval castle.
- Abbaye de l'Escaladieu: An ancient Cistercian abbey.
- Château de Montaner: A fortified castle with an unmissable view.

2. Picturesque towns and villages:
- Lourdes: Known for its Marian shrine and pilgrimages.
- Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges: A medieval village with a UNESCO-listed cathedral.
- Cauterets: A thermal spa and ski resort.

3. Museums:
- Massey Museum in Tarbes: A natural history and art museum.
- Pyrenean Museum of Lourdes: Dedicated to the culture and history of the Pyrenees.

Other must-see activities
1. Hiking and outdoor activities:
- National Park of the Pyrenees: Ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife and flora observation.
- Gavarnie Cirque: A spectacular natural site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Pic du Midi de Bigorre: An astronomical observatory offering panoramic views of the Pyrenees.

2. Ski resorts:
- La Mongie: One of the largest ski resorts in the Pyrenees.
- Cauterets: A thermal spa and ski resort.

3. Thermalism:
- Thermal Baths of Luz-Saint-Sauveur: Renowned for their thermal waters.
- Thermal Baths of Cauterets: Ideal for relaxation and well-being.

4. Events and festivals:
- Gavarnie Festival: An open-air theater festival.
- Jazz in Marciac: An international jazz festival.

The High Pyrenees offer a rich diversity of activities that will delight gastronomes, heritage enthusiasts, and nature lovers.