Lose yourself in the stars of Pyrenees National Park

The location of the Pyrenees massif in the south of France, but also the purity of its skies and the altitude, reveal the full splendour of the galaxy in the evening. In 2013, the Pic du Midi became the sixth International Dark Sky Reserve in the world and the first in Europe. A distinction that cannot quite capture the beauty of its skies.

The location of the Pyrenees massif in the south of France, but also the purity of its skies and the altitude, reveal the full splendour of the galaxy in the evening. In 2013, the Pic du Midi became the sixth International Dark Sky Reserve in the world and the first in Europe. A distinction that cannot quite capture the beauty of its skies.

A night-time heritage of unique richness

National Nature Site, International Dark Sky Reserve, world famous observatory... Pyrenees National Park gives you the opportunity for a unique and fun experience at the top of the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. During a guided hike, you will discover its exceptional nocturnal heritage thanks to site enthusiasts ready to reveal you all its secrets. Nocturnal animals come to life as soon as the stars’ shine in the skies, enjoying an exceptional serenity.

Get close to the stars at the Pic du Midi

From La Mongie, cable cars take their passengers to the summit where 600 m² of belvedere offer a 360° view of the Pyrenees, the great plains of the south-west and the foothills of the Massif Central. Let yourself be taken away by the exhilaration of an exceptional and breath-taking view suspended above the void by a twelve-metre glass footbridge!

Take the Pont d'Espagne road

In Cauterets, go with mountain professionals for a wander under the stars along easy strolls that can be done with the whole family. From the Pont d'Espagne car park, the adventure begins between the quirky roots of the Scots pine trees. The sound of your footsteps breaks the night-time silence in a sumptuous setting. Here, the skies are so dark that it is easy to see the Orion nebula with the naked eye. An extraordinary moment in the heart of nature, with only the light of your headlamps and the stars to guide you.

A moonlit walk in Aulon

The village of Aulon, built on the southern flank of the Arbizon peak at an altitude of 1,227 metres, is a lively and friendly place to live. Built around its listed 16th century Romanesque church, with its inns and shops selling typical local mountain produce, it is also ideal for discovering the hidden wildlife world and the mountains at night via the Chemin du Castet. Guided by an Ariadne's thread, you will reach the top of the Lurgues belvedere, a dazzling site where you can observe the starry sky.