Press Pack Pyrenees Winter 2016-17

PRESS PACK | WINTER 2016/17 2 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17

OPENING INDEX SCHEDULE

03 38 resorts, 15 spa centres 2, 3 AND 4 DECEMBER and more than 500 activities 2016

HAUTES-PYRÉNÉES • Cauterets • Luz Ardiden 04 • Grand Tourmalet Barèges- La Mongie Come to the magnificent Pyrenees • Saint Lary Soulan

HAUTE-GARONNE • Peyragudes • Luchon Superbagnères 06 • Le Mourtis Investments and figures ARIÈGE • Ax 3 Domaines • Beille Nordic section

AUDE 08 • Camurac What's new on the slopes? PYRÉNÉES-ORIENTALES • Font-Romeu / Pyrénées 2000 • Puyvalador

12 10 AND 11 The ultimate in relaxation: DECEMBER new in the spa centres 2016

PYRÉNÉES-ATLANTIQUES • Gourette

HAUTES-PYRÉNÉES 16 • Val Louron Magnificent packages ARIÈGE • Ascou

PYRÉNÉES-ORIENTALES 21 • Cambre d’Aze The Pyrenees in a click 16, 17 AND 18 DECEMBER 2016 22 PYRÉNÉES-ATLANTIQUES Don't miss • Artouste HAUTES-PYRÉNÉES • Hautacam • Gavarnie • Campan-Payole 24 Nordic section • Nistos Nordic section Contact ARIÈGE • Guzet • Mijanès–Donezan • Chioula Nordic section 26 • Goulier Neige On the map PYRÉNÉES-ORIENTALES • Formiguères

4 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17

PYRÉNÉES- HAUTES- HAUTE- ATLANTIQUES PYRÉNÉES GARONNE

In the south-east of France, the Pyrenees- This wonderful Ski & Spa destination is The regions of Le Mourtis, Luchon- Atlantiques department is known for its surrounded by Lourdes, the Pic du Midi Superbagnères and Peyragudes offer beauty and architectural abundance. and Gavarnie. Cauterets – recognised as a variety of snow activities alongside Henry IV of France, Gaston Fébus and the the world's snowiest resort, Peyragudes, panoramic views, incredible scenery, Musketeers built iconic castles in a region Val Louron, Saint Lary-Soulan, Piau-Engaly, historic places, rivers and canals, people home to the Iraty, Issarbe, La Pierre Saint- Grand Tourmalet, Cauterets, Hautacam, and food and drink. Martin, Le Somport-Candanchu, Artouste Luz-Ardiden, Gavarnie-Gèdre, Nistos and and Gourette districts. Val d’Azun are unique ski resorts. SIX DEPARTMENTS

The French Pyrenees are the ultimate winter destination. Stretching out over 45,707 hectares, they're home to the iconic Pic du Midi, Midi d’Ossau and Grand Tourmalet peaks, the glacial cirque of Gavarnie, more than 1,000 iconic ski slopes and 15 spa centres with waters bubbling up at more than 30ºC in midwinter. This makes the French Pyrenees a Ski & Spa destination.

Come to the French Pyrenees!

PYRÉNÉES- ARIÈGE AUDE ORIENTALES

If you're dreaming of new horizons, Ariège Alpine and cross-country skiing and There are eight ski resorts in total in is home to unusual destinations such as, snowshoeing are just some of the winter Pyrénées-Orientales. For the best snow, Ascou, Ax 3 Domaines, Beille, Étang de Lers, activities on offer in the ski resort of unspoilt nature and the ultimate Pyrenees Goulier Neige, Guzet, Le Chioula, Les Monts Camurac. In deepest Languedoc in the experience, head to the Nordic section of d’Olmes and Mijanès-Donezan. Exertion on Aude department, this resort comprises 11 Capcir, the Espace Cambre d'Aze, the endless skip slopes contrasts with the Alpine ski slopes and two cross-country ski Font-Romeu Pyrénées 2000, Formiguères, relaxing thermal waters. and showshoe slopes in a protected natural Les Angles, Porté-Puymorens or Puyvalador. setting. 6 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17 Investments and figures

FOCUS

Two new four-person chair lifts and updates to the La Piquette and Sapins areas GRAND TOURMALET

To improve the visitor experience, we have installed the new Sapins four-person chair lift in the north section of La Mongie with anti-fall protection for small children. We have also updated the blue slope at La Piquette and installed new snow cannons. Grand Tourmalet has received 11.45 million euros of investment.

FOCUS

SLOPE IMPROVEMENT AX 3 DOMAINES

With the creation of the new 'Development' space for beginners, the foot of the slopes and the skier reception area have been completely remodelled. And the installation of a covered 50-metre moving walkway and a 120-metre T-bar lift will improve access to the ski schools and the snow gardens. The work carried out in the Ax 3 Domaines area in 2016 received four million euros of investment. Meanwhile, the Ax-les-Thermes diversion will improve the entrance and exit for skiers at the resort and create a better atmosphere at the heart of Ax-les- Thermes. Expected to open in November/December 2016. Investments and figures

FOCUS

NEW GONDOLA LIFT WITH DISABLED ACCESS IN ARTOUSTE

The La Sagette Gondola Lift in Artouste has been completely renovated. The new version is larger and much more comfortable with six seats opposite one another and disabled access. To get to this point, almost everything has been changed: the cars, the grips, the rocker arms, the mechanical stations and even the high-voltage towers which have been been reduced in number from 25 from 20. The three-phrase engineering work will enhance comfort for skiers, reduce the environmental impact and respect the little train of Artouste tourist attraction. Work is set to finish just ahead of the winter season and entailed an investment of 5.3 million euros 8 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17 What’s new on the slopes?

OVER THE JAMES BOND SLOPE Peyragudes

The first scenes from Tomorrow Never Dies (1997) starring the famous James Bond were shot 20 years ago at the Peyragudes altiport. To celebrate the occasion, the resort is opening the new and original 007 slope. The legendary Bond scene was filmed in the valleys of this resort as he escaped the explosions at the simulated Afghan airbase in a light aircraft. Stretching 2,760 metres, the 007 is a blue slope accessible to all. Peyragudes offers 60 km of pistes: 51 slopes (6 green, 23 blue, 18 red and 4 black) and 17 ultra-modern ski lifts. PAY AS YOU SKI T.+33 (0)5 62 99 69 99 I [email protected] I CAUTERETS www.peyragudes.com Located in the Pyrenees National Park, Cauterets is an authentic mountain village. Ultra-dynamic, elegant and tasteful, it boasts a historic spa centre, With everything you need at your fingertips (shops, leisure activities, restaurants, cinemas, a casino and an ice skating rink), the resort offers 25 Alpine ski slopes, one Nordic section and one showshoe circuit. Snap up the holiday offers in summer and winter and get the best price at www.n-py.com

T. +33 (0)5 62 92 50 50 I [email protected] I www.cauterets.com What’s new on the slopes? CHAIR LIFTS OPEN! GRAND TOURMALET

Grand Tourmalet is set to open two state-of-the-art chair lifts this season in a bid to improve services and the flow of skiers. The investment in remodelling and modernising the historic Les Sapins and La Piquette areas stands at 11.5 million euros. The resort offers 100 km of pistes: 68 slopes (16 green, 24 blue, 21 red and 7 black) and a freeride slope from the Pic du Midi at an altitude of 1,700 metres.

T. +33 (0)5 62 95 50 71 I [email protected] I www.grand-tourmalet.com

A NEW LOOK FOR AX 3 DOMAINES

If you've ever been to the Ax 3 Domaines ski resort, you'll notice the changes next time. The resort has been redesigned and transformed. The ski schools and snow gardens have been improved to facilit- ate access to the slopes. This ambitious project received investment of approximately three million euros. The Ax 3 Domaines resort is connected to the town of Ax-les-Ther- mes by cable car. It covers more than 1,400 square metres with 80 km of slopes split into three zones to offer varied sensations to skiers. The Bonascre zone between 1,400 and 2000 metres above sea level is perfect for experiencing the joy of skiing. The smooth slope cuts through a pine forest like an invitation to ski. The El Saquet slopes, between 1,900 and 2,300 metres, are put aside for freestyle enthusiasts. Then there is Campels which stands at between 1,700 and 2,400 metres above sea level. Visitors can choose from 36 slopes (9 green, 10 blue, 10 red and 7 black), 17 mechanical lifts (2 gondola lifts, 7 T-bar lifts, 2 rope tow lifts, 6 chair lifts), 195 snow cannons, 1 nine-minute cable car link to Ax-les-thermes, 1 snow park, 2 ski schools, 1 lounge area and 2 mountain restaurants. It also offers the 'Bains du Couloubret' spa and leisure centre, a casino and a conference venue. Package RRP: €36 per person.

Contact: www.ax-ski.com 10 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17

HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY! VAL LOURON

About to turn 40? Congratulations! We await you from 7 to 13 February 2017 in Val Louron. We'll celebrate in style on our 20 slopes (7 green, 6 blue, 6 red and 1 black) with week-long activities for all walks of life. Don't miss the party finale and the fireworks on the slopes. If you're turning 40 this year, ski for free in Val Louron. Be sure to remember your ID!

T. +33 (0)5 62 99 95 35 I [email protected] I www.val-louron-ski.com SKI

THE MAGNIFICENT SKI RESORT OF SAINT-LARY-SOULAN

With three linked areas, the 100 km Saint-Lary ski resort has 56 slopes in total (7 green, 26 blue, 17 red and 10 black). Connected to the ski resort by cable car and gondola lift, the village of Saint-Lary has a warm Pyrenean ambiance. Three areas link up: Saint-Lary 1700 or 'Pla d’Adet', Saint-Lary 1900 or 'Espiaube' and Saint-Lary 2400 or 'Vallon du Portet'.

T. +33 (0)5 62 39 50 81 I [email protected] I www.saintlary.com SNOW SLOPES AND FORESTS IN ASCOU

Tucked away in the midst of a pine forest, the Ascou complex SKIboasts very high quality snow. It covers a 15 km expanse comprising 17 slopes (4 green, 5 blue, 6 red and 2 black), 5 T-bar lifts, 1 chair lift, 1 inclined walkway, 7 mechanical lifts, 25 snow cannons, 1 snow garden, 1 school slope and 1 mountain restaurant. Accessible to all levels, it offers a relaxed space for couples, friends or families looking to enjoy the snow. Package RRP: €23 per person.

T. +33 (0)5 61 64 28 86 I www.ascou-ski.com

PARADISE IN GUZET

In the midst of a protected area lies a picture postcard setting: the Guzet ski resort comprising the Freychet (sports skiing) and Guzet (easy slopes) zones. It extends over 40 km and offers 29 slopes (7 green, 9 blue, 9 red and 4 black) as well as a freeride area, a snow park, a 3 km multidisciplinary slope (Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, etc.), 1 high mountain restaurant, 1 ski school and quality infrastructure (14 lifts, 4 chair lifts and 131 snow cannons). Package RRP: €31 per person.

T. +33 (0)5 61 96 00 11 I www.altiservice.com I www.haut-couserans.com 12 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17 The ultimate in relaxation: New in the spa centres

LE JARDIN DES BAINS (ARGELÈS-GAZOST) A JOURNEY BACK IN TIME

Want to travel in time and space and bathe in thermal baths surrounded by leafy gardens? In Le Jardin des Bains, you'll encounter transparent walls, light effects and large windows that urge you to explore the various plant, flower and mineral environments.

T. +33 (0)5 62 97 03 24 I [email protected] I www.lejardindesbains.com

LES BAINS DU ROCHER – CAUTERETS WATER ACTIVITIES AS YOU'VE NEVER SEEN THEM BEFORE

A stone's throw from the Lys gondola lift lies Les bains du Rocher, one of the few spa centres in Europe to offer ultra-original water activities such as aqua-trampolining, Aqua Stand UP and aqua-biking. Aqua trampolining exercises the body using an elastic bed inside the pool, Aqua Stand UP consists of exercising while standing on a paddle board while aqua-biking is great fun, like cycling underwater. Are you up for it?

T. +33 (0)5 62 92 14 20 I [email protected] I www.bains-rocher.fr The ultimate in relaxation:

New in the BALNÉA – GÉNOS LOUNDENVIELLE JOURNEY THROUGH THE WORLD'S BATHS

Balnéa is an invitation to journey through the world's baths. Its five spaces cover more than spa centres 4000m2. On offer are Roman baths and stone mosaics for relaxation, an Indian and Inca space for families, a Japanese space with outdoor pools and saunas open to the mountains and a Tibetan space for treatments and massage. This winter, Balnéa will open a cryo-tonic pavilion in the Japanese Baths. The first ice hut has arrived in the Pyrenees. The indoor temperature will be around 8° C. It is fitted with an ice wall and fountain as well as a starry sky chromotherapy light system. The cryo-tonic pavilion is also equipped with a powerful four seasons shower with eight jets and four different programmes. Alongside the pavilion, the two saunas have been fitted with new benches and a retractable heating system, vital to the automatic diffusion of the fragrances.

T. +33 (0)5 91 70 19 19 I [email protected] www.balnea.fr

WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY

LE SPASSIO BY BALNÉA – PERYAGUDES LUZÉA – LUZ-SAINT-SAUVEUR RELAX WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY RELAX IN A MAGNIFICENT SETTING

Relax at the foot of the slopes in the Peyragudes resort. Midway between Neoclassical architecture and You'll love the Le Spassio spa resort with its stunning contemporary space, Luzéa combines marble, glass architecture and large windows that bathe you in light as and inlaid mosaics with precious stones. What was you soak with friends or family. Relaxation guaranteed, once the spa to Empress Eugenie now offers the all winter long. ultimate relaxation experience in a magnificent setting.

T. +33 (0)5 62 40 01 00 I www.spassio.fr T. +33 (0)5 62 92 81 58 I [email protected] I www.luzea.fr 14 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17

AQUENSIS – BAGNÈRES-DE-BIGORRE JACUZZIS WITH A VIEW

A cathedral with a jacuzzi? That's exactly what you'll get at the Aquensis spa centre in Bagnères-de-Bigorre in the French Pyrenees with its baths, pools and bubbles in a wooden setting not unlike a cathedral. The upper floor is home to 19th-century rooms with an elegant style perfect for massages and treatments. And as if that were not enough, the outdoor jacuzzis offer panoramic views of the town. Amazing!

T. +33 (0)5 62 95 86 95 I [email protected] I www.aquensis.fr

SENSORIA – SAINT-LARY SOULAN THREE SPACES, THREE STYLES

The Saint-Lary Soulan ski resort is home to one of the Pyren- ees' most iconic wellness areas: the Sensoria comprising three memorable spaces with something for everyone. The Sensoria Spa by Nuxe houses the spa and body and face treatment areas. The Sensoria Rio is the place for hydro massage, geysers, waterfalls and bubble beds. Finally, Sensoria Fitness is the gym area geared towards toning, cardio training and muscle building UNIQUE IN with tips from a coach. T. +33 (0)5 62 40 71 71 I [email protected] I EUROPE www.mercuresensoria.com

DON'T MISS IT CIELÉO – SPA AND LEISURE CENTRE – BARÈGES IN LUCHON ALMOST 300 YEARS OF HISTORY Have you ever been to a vaporarium? Alongside the gondola lifts travelling to the Superbagnères resort lies the vaporarium, The healing powers of Barèges thermal water were discovered Europe's only natural steam room and a not by the Romans but the shepherds who noticed that the must-visit. water cured wounded sheep. But it wasn't until 1734 and the visit of Louis XIV that Barèges was recognised as a spa town, leading to infrastructure such as the motorway connection to T. +33 (0)5 91 79 22 97 I [email protected] the town of Tarbes. I www.luchon-bien-etre.fr T. +33 (0)5 62 92 68 02 I [email protected] www.cieleo-bareges.com BAINS D’EAUX CHAUDES EUROPE'S HOTTEST WATER SURROUNDED BY SNOW

LLO Fifteen minutes from Font Romeu in the beautiful setting of Gorges du Sègre, you'll find some of Europe's hottest water. Here, thermal waters bubble up at more than 35ºC in a snowy landscape. Can you imagine?

T. +33 (0)4 68 04 74 55 I www.bains-de-llo.com

DORRES Time stands still here as you enjoy a nice bath and contemplate the landscape extending from the Canigou to the Sierra del Cadí. Don't miss it!

T. +33 (0)4 68 04 66 87 I [email protected] I www.bains-de-dorres.com

SAINT-THOMAS-LES-BAINS LES BAINS DU COULOUBRET – AX-LES-THERMES Less than 100 km from Perpignan stands a huge stone 300 M2 OF WELLNESS amphitheatre with three outdoor pools. Come and discover a unique landscape cloaked in magic and At the foot of the Ax 3 Domaines ski resort in the spa town of tranquillity very close to home. Ax-les-thermes, 3000 m2 of wellness await you in a beautiful and unique spa centre for those seeking an original, unusual and T. +33 (0)4 68 97 03 13 I [email protected] sophisticated decor. www.bains-saint-thomas.fr T. +33 (0)5 61 02 64 41 I [email protected] I www.bains-couloubret.com

THERMES – AULUS-LES-BAINS THE HEART OF THE PYRENEES

Tucked away at the heart of the French Pyrenees, 800 metres above sea level, is the perfect place for finding harmony between mind and body. Welcome to the Gouzet ski and wellness resort.

T. +33 (0)5 61 66 36 80 I [email protected] I www.thermes-aulus.fr 16 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17 Pyrenean packages

signposted paths. The icing on the cake for two adults. From €104 per person. OFF-PISTE will be the relaxing wellness experience TOURING at the Spa Montagne. Contact Rés’Ariège for bookings and more information: IN GOURETTE / T. +33 (0)5 61 02 30 80 I www.ariegepyrenees.com From €279 per person (minimum of two ARTOUSTE people) – (Discounted rates for groups of PACKAGE-FREE SKIING three or more). AT LES ANGLES Contact: Laruns-Artouste Tourist Information Centre I Forget packages this season! Save T. +33 (0)5 59 05 31 41 I money at the Les Angles resort and get [email protected] I www.ossau-pyrenees.com even more out of your snow break. Pay as you ski and bypass the ticket office FALL IN LOVE with the new €5 non-transferable card for IN BEILLE the 2016/17 winter season. Your ski trips will be charged directly to your current account at the end of each month. More Do you picture yourself making an bonuses: ski the whole day for the price off-piste descent at an altitude of of a four-hour bundle. 1,000 metres, facing the iconic Pic du Midi d’Ossau? Enjoy a full day of off-piste skiing Pay €34.50 for the whole day, down from in the best part of each valley moving €38. Get the fifth day at half price, snap between resorts with minimal effort. up offers on the 10th and 15th of every month and take advantage of a free day From €65 per person (minimum booking to coincide with the closure of the resort. of four people) / Only includes lifts and bus transfers. Contact: Maison du Tourisme des Angles T. +33 (0)4 68 04 32 76 I [email protected] I Contact: www.lesangles.com Laruns-Artouste Tourist Information Centre I T. +33 05 59 (0)5 31 41 I [email protected] I www.ossau-pyrenees.com SKI, SPA AND Descents, landscapes, laughter and ROMANTIC WEEKENDS A NIGHT OF discovery. The beautiful and magical Beille IN SAINT-LARY STARS IN THE is the perfect setting for a romantic break in the snow. Fall in love in an intimate With a charming little mountain village, OSSAU VALLEY location and share some joy. Of a night, beautiful, large ski resort and bubbling the warm chalet ambiance provides a Have you heard the call of the wild? waters, you're sure to enjoy the perfect romantic backdrop to your stay. Join us on a two-day showshoe hike in weekend with your partner in Saint-Lary. Pyrenees National Park and experience Get swept up in the magic of the French Two nights in a chalet in Aston – Pays de peaks and lakes in the company of a Pyrenees! Beille • Nordic Duo two-day pass mountain guide to keep you safe off the Pyrenean packages

A two-night package in a three-star hotel beautiful slopes of Le Mourtis, relax in the steamy baths. Amazing. with a two-day access pass to the Gran wonderful thermal watchers of Thermes Domaine Saint-Lary slopes and a two- de Les in the Aran Valley. This spa centre Two days / two nights half-board in an hour pass to the relaxing 'Sensoria Rio' features a covered and open-air thermal accredited three-star hotel • one two-day from €144 per person (double room). swimming pool, three jacuzzis with package for the Cauterets ski slopes • varying temperatures, a sauna, one treatment lasting one hour Contact: vaporarium and more. 15 minutes and one two-hour pass to Saint-Lary Tourist Information Centre T. +33 05 62 39 53 81 I [email protected] the Les Bains du Rocher spa centre with Ski/relaxation package: €35 per person. indoor swimming pool, open-air pool, sauna, jacuzzi and steam room. Contact: ROMANTIC Le Mourtis resort T. + 33 (0)5 61 79 47 55 I +33 (0)5 61 79 45 98 I From €320 per person (minimum of two SKI & SPA ESCAPE people). AT THE FOOT OF [email protected] Contact: THE SLOPES La Boutique des Hautes-Pyrénées T. + 33 (0)5 62 56 70 00 I AT PEYRAGUDES www.tourisme-hautes-pyrenees.com

A luxurious spa experience at the foot of the slopes is accessible to all at Pey- ragudes. The French resort is the first to have popularised the Ski & Spa pairing . ULTIMATE POWDER IN Enjoy a two-day ski break, two nights in AX 3 DOMAINES a comfortable studio and two hours of relaxation in the 'Spassio', one of the best spa centres at the foot of the slopes.

From €150.70 per person (a minimum of RELAX IN THE two people) for two nights + two days of OPEN-AIR POOL skiing + one entry pass to the Spassio spa. IN CAUTERETS Contact: Maison de Peyragudes They say that to relax you must travel T. +33 (0)5 62 99 69 99 I [email protected] lightly. A ski mascara, ski mask and warm clothes are all you need to relax and Winter sports enthusiasts and snow Ax 3 Domaines is the place for make the most of the beautiful Pyren- lovers, AN ESSENTIAL you. Here you'll find 80 km of endless ski ees resort of Cauterets. In the daytime, slopes for all levels to enjoy with friends SKI & SPA EXPERIENCE the blue sky and white slopes create or family. IN LE MOURTIS a stunning backdrop in the snow. The One week in a four-person apartment night is the time to relax in the open-air in Ax 3 Domaines • Package for six Ski in the morning and relax in the afternoon. pool at the Cauterets spa centre which consecutive days After a full morning of skiing on the transports us to the Dead Sea with its hot 18 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17 Pyrenean packages

from €205 per person (for four adults, (vaporarium and thermal water relaxation Contact: from the opening of the resort through to pool). La Boutique des Hautes-Pyrénées T. +33 (0)5 62 56 70 00 I closure, excluding school holidays). www.tourisme-hautes-pyrenees.com From €86 per person (double room). Contact: Contact Rés’Ariège for information and bookings: Contact: T. +33 (0)5 61 02 30 80 I www.ariegepyrenees.com Luchon-Superbagnères Tourist Information Centre FOR THE SWEET T. +33 (0)5 61 79 21 21I [email protected] TOOTHED: SKI AND RELAX IN SIGN UP FOR TAI THE ARTISAN BISCUITS EUROPE'S ONLY FROM THE SINSAT MILL NATURAL STEAM ROOM SKIING IN GRAND TOURMALET IN ARIÈGE Luchon-Superbagnères is no ordinary ski resort. As well as enjoying the white Tai Skiing is the the ultimate for preparing surrounds, here you can experience for descents in the snow. Behind this something unique. Discover and relax in new trend is Cathy Breyton, Speed Skiing Europe's only natural steam room! This World Champion and member of the magical place is sure to make an impres- French skiing team. This completely new sion. Walk in the footprints of the Romans sporting discipline consists of Tai Chi who discovered this joy of nature many on skis. It's essential to finding balance, centuries ago. feeling more supported on each turn and multiplying the sliding sensations by ten. 'Ski & Spa' package With Cathy's easy, natural exercises, you'll One day of skiing + one pass to the love snow that bit more. Luchon wellness area (vaporarium and Three days / three nights bed and breakfast Ex-travel agent Carole and ex-baker Eric thermal water relaxation pool). Valid • one three-day ski package in Grand needed to retrain and decided to start a every day of the season: €41. Tourmalet • three hours of Tai Skiing with new life at the old Sinsat mill dating back ski instructor Cathy Breyton • one two- to the the 17th century. They decided to Weekend 'Ski & Spa' hour pass to the Aquensis thermal spa. combine passions and began to make One night in a hotel (bed and breakfast) From €434 per person (minimum of two biscuits inspired by Carole's grandmother's + one day of skiing + one pass to the spa people). old recipes. The flour they use is made of wheat and rye cultivated locally with One of the best places to try it is the 'Luz accessible to all, it is also home to a environmentally friendly practices. Their Ardiden', a restaurant–museum to visit beautiful observatory for scientists. A little store won the talented artisan and savour. Menu: €18. unique Freeride space allows visitors to competition in 2015. Sample Carole and ski down from the Pic du Midi. Eric's artisan biscuits after a day on the Address: The Pic du Midi is reinventing itself – Impasse Du Presbytère I 10, ruta de Barèges fantastic slopes of Ariège. You'll love them! 65120 Luz Saint-Sauveur, France. I T. +33 (0)7 82 85 88 13 Immediate departure for the Planetarium. The highest planetarium in Europe has Address: Contact: Av. Paul Berdot RN 20 Le Moulin, 09310 Sinsat, France been placed in orbit on the Pic du Midi. Argelès-Gazost Valley Tourist Information Centre T. + 33 (0)5 61 65 37 45 I Inside the hundred-year-old Baillaud T. +33 (0)5 62 97 00 25 I www.argeles-gazost.com www.lesbiscuitsdumoulin.com cupola, the dome is covered with a hemispheric scene eight metres in diameter. This immersive cinema projects FOR the world's most beautiful skies, particu- larly that of the Pic du Midi, classed as an FOOD LOVERS: International Dark Sky Reserve. While the GARBURE outside cannot be seen, a sky is always visible. A commentary accompanies each IN ARGELÈS-GAZOST journey to the centre of the celestial cupola – or the very edges of the universe Alongside the fantastic ski resorts and spa in the great beyond. centres, the French Pyrenees also boast You don't need to fasten your seatbelt in a rich regional cuisine. If you're skiing or one of the 50 seats to head into the solar bathing in an Argelès-Gazost resort, be sure THE PIC DU MIDI: system, nebulae and galaxies. to try the region's typical dish, Garbure, a vegetable and white bean soup cooked A 360° VIEW OVER Contact: with meat confit and the famous camayou THE PYRENEES Régie du Pic du Midi (cured ham bone). Garbure requires full T. +33 (0)825 00 28 77 I [email protected] www.picdumidi.com hour of preparation and an entire day of RANGE slow cooking. The recipe varies from one At an altitude of 2,877 metres, the Pic du valley to the next. Red wine is traditionally Midi offers 360° views over the Pyrenees added to the hot dish, which is known as range and can be reached by cable car 'faire chabrot' in France. It's delicious! from La Mongie. A high mountain spot 20 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17

VISIT ONE OF THE WONDERFUL WORLD'S BIGGEST CHRISTMASES SOLAR FURNACES: IN BEILLE, GOULIER THE ODEILLO AND GUZET

In the small town of Odeillo near Font- Father Christmas is a frequent visitor to Romeu lies a major solar energy research the French Pyrenees. Every year on 24 centre with an exceptional mirrored December, he slides down the Goulier structure standing 40 metres tall. Don't slopes before embarking on his night- miss it because it is actually one of the time journey. Head to the beautiful resort two biggest solar furnaces in the world of Beille at 4pm on 25 December to see and a research laboratory. Did you know him with his sleigh pulled by dogs, or that mirrors absorb energy? The building paragliding down the slopes of Guzet. houses a strange museum where little ones can watch practical demonstrations 24 December in Goulier. T. +33 (0)5 61 64 88 99 I and find out more about solar energy. www.pays-du-montcalm.com

Prices Adults: €6 per person. 25 December in Beille. Children under 17: €3.50 per person. T. +33 (0)5 34 09 35 35 I www.beille.fr 25 December in Guzet. Address: T. +33 (0)5 61 96 00 11 I www.altiservice.com/guzet 7 rue du four solaire, 66120 I Font-Romeu-Odeillo, France. T. + 33 (0)4 68 30 77 86 I www.foursolaire-fontromeu.fr The Pyrenees in a click

PYRENEEShttps://www.facebook.com/pyrenees1 https://twitter.com/Pyrenees_1 www.youtube.com/user/Pyreneesun

If you're dreaming of snow and magnificent spa centres, log on to www.lespyrenees.net. There, you will find up- to-date information to plan your stay in the French Pyrenees. We're waiting for you!

www.lespyrenees.net 22 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17

in a fabulous setting perfect for an DECEMBER international snow show. FROM 20 TO 22 JANUARY 2017 The Romeufontaine FROM 8 TO 10 DECEMBER 2016 FROM 14 TO 15 JANUARY 2017 Trail in Font-Romeu International Free Swoard Demo Tour Competition open to all with Ride Film Festival in at Peyragudes prepared paths in an excep- Cauterets Snowboarders can try out tional setting against a Dedicated to skiing and snow- Extreme Carving snowboard- backdrop of stunning land- boarding, this film festival ing and attend free monoski scapes. recognises and discovers classes with Philippe Lecadre, 21 JANUARY 2017 artistic quality like no other. a pioneer in the sport. Pig festival in Saint-Lary FROM 14 TO 17 JANUARY 2017 Local speciality the black JANUARY Mountain Salsa Fest- Bigorre pig has the honour of ival in Saint-Lary starring in this year's Saint- Enjoy this salsa festival to FROM 6 TO 8 JANUARY 2017 Lary Pig Festival. Here, you the full with your skies on. A The fifth Garosnow can visit an array of stands to Festival in Les Angles crazy weekend with salsa, DJ discover all manner of pork With the motto "Music, ride & sessions, skiing, snowboarding, and how to cook it. cool attitude!” this music festival laughter and Pyrenees-style puts together an eclectic line up fun. 21 JANUARY 2017 covering everything from reggae The third Istery to electronica. FROM 14 TO 21 JANUARY 2017 Blanche 28th Adventure Festival Incredible obstacle race in in Les Angles 7 JANUARY Gourette. This festival is all about excite- Trace Catalane in Les ment, discovery and reunion as Angles 21 AND 22 JANUARY 2017 we join the world's best Alpine The legendary Alpine ski race The tenth Monomitik is set to run for the 30th time skiers on a real quest for adven- in Les Angles this year. ture with images and debates. An international monoski The illustrious line-up includes gathering. The slopes of the from 11 to 14 january 2017 some unmissable names such Roc d’Aude will fill with mono- Font Romeu Pyrenees as Philippe Croizon, Patrick skis over a weekend of fun, 2000 will host the Coulombel, Laurence de la Fer- friendship and competition. Free Style World Cup rière, Gérard Fusil, Loïck Peyron, Some of the world’s best free Éric Tabarly, Catherine Dest- style skiers will participate in this ivelle, Sylvain Augier, Gérard spectacular event, marked by out- d’Aboville, Philippe Frey, Isabelle standing sporting performances Autissier and Nicolas Hulot. Don’t miss 22 JANUARY 2017 FROM 3 TO 4 FEBRUARY 2017 11 AND 12 MARCH 2017 25 MARCH 2017 World Garosnow Festival Trail Blanc – Grand Garapette Snowboarding in Cauterets Raid des Pyrénées in Gourette Day in Saint-Lary On-slope musical festival in Saint-Lary Mountain race at an altitude Visit on the 11th World Snow- combining descents and This winter, the Grand Raid of 650 metres. boarding Day to discover the night-time parties. Music, des Pyrénées dons its winter culture behind this sport. gliding and fun. attire in the Saint-Lary ski FROM 27 MARCH TO 1 APRIL resort with three 10, 18 and 25 World and European 27 JANUARY 2017 km races where trail runners FROM 25 TO 26 FEBRUARY 2017 adapted sport champi- The sixth 'Les will give their all in the ons in Gourette The Altitoy Ternua Flocons de l’Humour' Néouvielle massif. Twelve nationalities are set to at Les Angles Open in Luz Ardiden take part. Nocturnal performances with A joint collaboration between 11 MARCH 2017 an artist to see who'll finish France and Spain, this race is one Garosnow in France's Bleu's white adventure of the seven most prestigious Gourette at the Neiges Catalanes resorts. APRIL international mountain ski races. Music, Rides and Cool Attitude. The little brother of 2 APRIL 2017 28 AND 29 JANUARY 2017 the Garorock festival. Telemarking Pyrénées Triathlon in Gourette MARCH In Gourette 12 MARCH 2017 Among other activities, the No self-respecting triathlete The fourth Glisse et French Federation of Alpine FROM 4 TO 5 MARCH 2017 Oh Festival in Les can miss this special event, and Mountain Clubs will X-Trem Freeride in Angles held this season for the 31st organise a day of parallel Saint-Lary The Les Angles resort and the time. slalom challenges on the This freeriding competition for MUCOVIE 66 charity organise Sunday. teams of two will take place this music festival for a great 9 APRIL 2017 over a two-day period on the cause, donating the proceeds Gourettoise best off-piste areas of Saint- to cystic fibrosis charities. in Gourette FEBRUARY Lary. Individual or team Alpine ski 12 MARCH 2017 race. 10, 11 AND 12 MARCH 2017 FROM 1 TO 5 FEBRUARY 2017 The eighth Pic du Midi French Ski Federation Derby Audiovisual Kids' National Tour Participants must descend from Production (KNT) at Peyragudes Festival the Pic de Midi to La Mongie The best young snowboarders in Luchon as fast as they can by skiing, will compete over three days This festival pays host to snowboarding, telemarking or in snowboard cross, slope French and Spanish fiction in monoskiing. Each can choose style and parallel giant slalom high-quality unseen films. their own route and discipline. challenges 24 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17

YOUR 38 RESORTS HAUTACAM SAINT LARY-SOULAN IN THE FRENCH Tourist Information Centre Tourist Information Centre PYRENEES BP 35 - 65401 Argelès BP 39 – 65171 - Gazost CEDEX 1, France Saint-Lary CEDEX, France IN PYRÉNÉES- T. +33 (0)5 62 97 00 25 T. +33 (0)5 62 39 50 81 ATLANTIQUES T. +33 (0)5 62 97 10 16 [email protected] [email protected] www.saintlary.com IRATY www.hautacam.com Les Chalets d’Iraty PIAU-ENGALY 64560 Larrau, France CAUTERETS Tourist Information Centre T. +33 (0)5 59 28 51 29 Tourist Information Centre Station de Piau-Engaly – [email protected] Place Foch - 65170 Aragnouet, France www.chalets-iraty.com BP 79 - 65110 Cauterets, T. +33 (0)5 62 39 61 69 France [email protected] ISSARBE T. +33 (0)5 62 92 50 50 www.piau-engaly.com Mairie [email protected] 64570 Lanne en Barétous, www.cauterets.com VAL LOURON France Tourist Information Centre T. +33 (0)5 59 66 20 09 GAVARNIE-GÈDRE 65590 Bordères-Louron Tourist Information Centre or 65510 Loudenvielle, LA PIERRE SAINT-MARTIN 65120 Gavarnie-Gèdre, France La Pierre Saint-Martin France T. +33 (0)5 62 99 92 00 Tourist Information Centre, T. +33 (0)5 62 92 49 10 T. +33 (0)5 62 99 95 35 Vallée du Barétous, Maison [email protected] [email protected] de la Pierre - 64570 Arette, www.gavarnie.com www.vallee-du-louron.com France T. +33 (0)5 59 66 20 09 LUZ-ARDIDEN NISTOS [email protected] Tourist Information Centre Tourist Information Centre www.lapierrestmartin.com 65120 Luz-Saint Sauveur, Place de la Mairie 65150 France Saint-Laurent de Neste, LE SOMPORT- T. +33 (0)5 62 92 30 30 France CANDANCHU [email protected] – www.luz.org T. +33 (0)5 62 39 74 34 Somport operations area, T. +33 (0)5 62 39 71 00 Community of communes, GRAND [email protected] 64490 Accous, France TOURMALET-BARÈGES www.neste-nistos.com Tourist Information Centre

Contacts T. +33 (0)5 59 36 00 21 T. +33 (0)5 59 34 57 57 65120 Barèges, France [email protected] T. +33 (0)5 62 92 16 00 IN HAUTE-GARONNE www.lesomport.com T. +33 (0)5 62 95 50 71 CONFÉDÉRATION [email protected] PEYRAGUDES PYRÉNÉENNE DU ARTOUSTE www.grand-tourmalet.com Maison de Peyragudes TOURISME: A UNIQUE Tourist Information Centre 65510 Peyragudes, France NOT-FOR-PROFIT Maison de Fabrèges – GRAND TOURMALET–LA T. +33 (0)5 62 99 69 99 ORGANISATION 64440 Artouste-Fabrèges, MONGIE [email protected] Created in 1918 by the France Tourist Information Centre www.peyragudes.com main voluntary players T. +33 (0)5 59 05 34 00 3, allées Tournefort - BP 226 in the French Pyrenees [email protected] 65202 Bagnères-de-Bigorre LUCHON-SUPERBAGNÈRES tourism industry, the www.ossau-pyrenees.com CEDEX, France Tourist Information Centre Confédération Pyrénénne T. +33 (0)5 62 91 94 15 18, allées d’Etigny du Tourisme is the only GOURETTE T. +33 (0)5 62 95 50 71 31110 Luchon, France entity in France to bring Tourist Information Centre [email protected] T. +33 (0)5 61 79 21 21 together the main tourist 64440 Gourette, France www.grand-tourmalet.com [email protected] economy entities in the T. +33 (0)5 59 05 12 17 www.luchon.com French Pyrenees. [email protected] GRAND TOURMALET- www.gourette.com CAMPAN-PAYOLLE LE MOURTIS 7, rue des Prêtres Tourist Information Centre Le Mourtis region 31 000 Toulouse, France Vallée de Campan – 31440 Saint-Béat, France T. +33 (0)5 34 40 78 40 IN HAUTES-PYRÉNÉES 65710 Campan, France T. +33 (0)5 61 79 47 55 F. +33 (0)5 34 40 78 48 T. +33 (0)5 62 91 70 36 T. +33 (0)5 61 79 45 98 VAL D’AZUN [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Maison du Val d’Azun www.grand-tourmalet.com www.mourtis.fr www.lespyrenees.net 65400 Arrens Marsous, www.facebook.com/ France PEYRAGUDES pyrenees1 T. +33 (0)5 62 97 49 49 Maison de Peyragudes twitter.com/Pyrenees_1 [email protected] 65510 Peyragudes, France www.youtube.com/user/ www.valdazun.com T. +33 (0)5 62 99 69 99 Pyreneesun [email protected] www.peyragudes.com MIJANÈS-DONEZAN FORMIGUÈRES ARIÈGE IN ARIÈGE Tourist Information Centre Tourist Information Centre Ariège Pyrenees Tourism 09460 Le Pla, France 1, place de l’église - 66210 Development Agency GUZET T. +33 (0)4 68 20 41 37 Formiguères, France 2, boulevard du sud - Tourist Information Centre T. +33 (0)4 68 04 47 35 Place de l’Allée – [email protected] BP 30143 09 004 Foix [email protected] 09140 Seix, France www.donezan.com CEDEX, France www.formigueres.fr T. +33 (0)5 61 96 00 01 T. +33 (0)5 61 02 30 70 F. +33 (0)5 61 65 17 34 [email protected] PUYVALADOR www.altiservice.com IN AUDE [email protected] Puyvalador Resort www.ariegepyrenees.com Résidence les Sorbiers – CAMURAC ÉTANG DE LERS 66 210 Puyvalador, France Community of communes PYRÉNÉES-ORIENTALES Tourist Information Centre T. +33 (0)4 68 04 44 83 Square André Tricoire - Pyrénées-Orientales Tourism 09320 Massat, France [email protected] 11500 Quillan, France Development Agency T. +33 (0)5 61 96 92 76 www.puyvalador.fr [email protected] T. +33 (0)4 68 20 07 78 2, boulevard des Pyrénées www.etang-de-lers.fr T. +33 (0)4 68 20 32 27 – CS 80540 [email protected] TOURISM COMMITTEES 66 005 Perpignan Cedex, GOULIER NEIGE www.ski-camurac.com Tourism France Tourist Information Centre Committee T. +33 (0)4 68 51 52 53 09220 Auzat, France Departments F. +33 (0)4 68 51 52 50 T. +33 (0)5 61 64 87 53 IN PYRÉNÉES- [email protected] [email protected] ORIENTALES PYRÉNÉES-ATLANTIQUES www.tourisme-pyreneeso- www.tarascon-vicdessos.com Tourist Information Centre rientales.com PORTÉ-PUYMORENS Béarn – Basque Country LES MONTS D’OLMES Chalet d’Accueil 2, allée des platanes - Regional Tourism Inter-community tourist 66760 Porté-Puymorens, 64 100 Bayonne, France Committees agency France Délégation Béarn: 22 ter, 09300 Lavelanet, France T. +33 (0)4 68 04 82 41 rue Jean-Jacques de AQUITAINE T. +33 (0)5 61 03 89 06 Monaix - 64000 Pau, [email protected] Regional Tourism T. +33 (0)5 61 01 22 20 France Committee for Aquitaine [email protected] T. +33 (0)5 59 30 01 30 ESPACE CAMBRE D’AZE 4-5, place Jean Jaurès - www.montsdolmes.com F. +33 05 59 02 52 75 Place de l’Europe CS 31759 [email protected] AX 3 DOMAINES 66800 Eyne, France www.tourisme64.com 33074 Bordeaux CEDEX, Ax Valleys Tourist T. +33 (0)4 68 04 08 01 France Information Centre [email protected] HAUTES-PYRÉNÉES T. +33 (0)5 56 01 70 00 09110 Ax les thermes, www.cambre-d-aze.com/fr Hautes-Pyrénées Tourism F. +33 (0)5 56 01 70 07 France and Environment [email protected] T. +33 (0)5 61 64 60 60 FONT-ROMEU 11, rue Gaston Manent – www.tourisme-aquitaine.fr [email protected] Tourist Information Centre BP 9502 www.ax-ski.com 82, avenue E. Brousse – 65950 Tarbes CEDEX 9, MIDI-PYRÉNÉES BP 55 – 66120 France Regional Tourism Committee BEILLE Font-Romeu CEDEX, France T. +33 (0)5 62 56 70 65 for Midi-Pyrénées Ax Valleys Tourist T. +33 (0)4 68 30 68 30 F. +33 (0)5 62 56 70 66 15, rue Rivals - CS 78543 Information Centre [email protected] tourisme-hautes-pyrenees@ 31685 Toulouse CEDEX 6, 09110 Ax les thermes, www.font-romeu.fr ha-py.fr France France www.tourisme-hautes-pyre- T. +33 (0)5 61 13 55 55 T. +33 (0)5 61 64 60 60 PYRÉNÉES 2000 nees.com F. +33 05 61 47 17 16 T. +33 (0)5 34 09 35 35 Tourist Information Centre [email protected] [email protected] Avenue du Serrat de l’Ours HAUTE-GARONNE www.tourisme-midi-pyrenees.com www.beille.fr 66210 Bolquère, France Tourist Information Centre 14, rue Bayard – CS 71509 T. +33 (0)4 68 30 12 42 LANGUEDOC- 31015 Toulouse CEDEX 6, LE CHIOULA [email protected] ROUSSILLON France Ax Valleys Tourist www.pyrenees2000.com Regional Tourism Information Centre T. +33 (0)5 61 99 44 00 Committee for 09110 Ax les thermes, F. +33 (0)5 61 99 44 19 LES ANGLES Languedoc-Roussillon France [email protected] Tourist Office Espace Capdeville - Le T. +33 (0)5 61 64 60 60 www.tourisme.haute-garonne.fr T. +33 (0)5 61 64 20 00 BP 18 – 66210 Les Angles, Millénaire II - 417 rue Sa- [email protected] France AUDE muel-Morse - CS 79507 www.chioula.fr T. +33 (0)4 68 04 32 76 Tourism Development 31960 Montpellier cedex [email protected] Agency 2, France ASCOU www.lesangles.com General Council of Aude – T. +33 (0)4 67 22 98 09 Ax Valleys Tourist Allée Raymond Courrière [email protected] Information Centre CAPCIR 11855 Carcassonne CEDEX www.crtlr.fr 09110 Ax les thermes, Capcir Nordic section 9, France France Col de la Quillane - 66210 T. +33 (0)4 68 11 66 00 T. +33 (0)5 61 64 60 60 La Llagonne, France F. +33 (0)4 68 11 66 01 T. +33 (0)5 61 64 28 86 T. +33 (0)4 68 04 49 86 documentation@ [email protected] [email protected] audetourisme.com www.ascou-ski.com www.capcir-nordique.com www.audetourisme.com 26 I PRESS PACK I WINTER 2016/17 On the map PYRENEAN CONFEDERATION OF TOURISM

7, rue des Prêtres – 31 000 Toulouse, France Tel. +33 (0)5 34 40 78 40 I F. +33 (0)5 34 40 78 48

https://www.facebook.com/pyrenees1 https://twitter.com/Pyrenees_1 www.youtube.com/user/Pyreneesun

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CONTACTS

Press relations Vanessa Fisher T. +44 7957 618525 I [email protected]

BÉARN DEPARTMENTAL ARIÈGE-PYRENEES TOURIST TOURISM COMMITTEE – BASQUE COUNTRY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY Cécile Rougier Mado Goncalves T. +33 (0)5 59 30 91 21 I T. +33 (0)6 72 95 61 93 T. +33 (0)5 61 02 30 76 I T. +33 (0)6 81 24 94 81 [email protected] [email protected]

HAUTES-PYRÉNÉES AUDE DEPARTMENTAL TOURISM AND ENVIRONMENT TOURISM COMMITTEE Isabelle Pélieu Myriam Fillaquier T. +33 (0)5 62 56 70 60 I T.+33 (0)6 24 24 19 75 T. +33 (0)4 68 11 66 00 [email protected] [email protected]

HAUTE-GARONNE PYRÉNÉES-ORIENTALES TOURIST DEPARTMENTAL TOURISM COMMITTEE DEVELOPMENT AGENCY Nathalie Lacomme Emmanuelle Gendre T. +33 (0)5 61 99 44 03 I [email protected] T. +33 (0)4 68 51 52 53 I [email protected]