Camping Cauterets

Have you been to Cauterets?

In the Hautes-Pyrénées, on the border with Spain, Cauterets attracts many tourists every year. Although the town is best known as a winter sports resort, Cauterets remains popular all year round and is closely associated with outdoor activities and the joys of camping. Indeed, in summer, spring and autumn too, the scenery is incredible and there are countless activities on offer.

For example, the Gavarnie Valleys, where the resort is situated, is a great place for walking. There are many signposted hiking trails which vary in length and difficulty. This offers everyone the opportunity to enjoy exquisite views of the Pyrénées with family or friends.

Cycling is also an extremely popular activity in the region. Naturally, with the significant differences in altitude and countless famous passes, cycling enthusiasts like to take on the challenge of the peaks. Cauterets is one of the most popular places.

It is also a well-known destination for its thermal baths. Local sulphurous waters offer a multitude of benefits. So, whether you’re seeking health benefits or total relaxation, a camping holiday in Cauterets offers the perfect opportunity for self-care.

As you can see, if you’re staying at a nearby campsite, Cauterets is well worth a visit. Whatever the season, whatever your preferences, there’s always something to do.

Did you know…?

Cauterets has a culinary speciality: berlingot. This boiled sweet has earned its place in the resort’s history thanks to its healing properties. Because yes, the Cauterets berlingot treats sore throats.

The story goes that the sugar was used to hide the taste of sulphur in the city's water. Thus, the benefits of the water were multiplied tenfold and were beneficial for the throat. Several confectionery shops appeared throughout the region and in Cauterets itself.

This is how each spa resort in the Pyrénées ended up producing its own berlingot sweets. These sweets attracted pilgrims visiting Lourdes, bringing them to the resorts. To this day, tons of berlingot sweets are still made in Cauterets. Much to the therapists’ delight... And those with a sweet tooth!

Activities

One thing’s for sure: you certainly won’t be bored. Winter sports are naturally very popular. When temperatures rise, the possibilities are almost endless. You can admire the Pyrenean scenery from different viewpoints.

First of all, there are walking activities: hiking, walking and trail running. Whether you’re into sports or you prefer to take things at a slower pace, the paths will guide you to the most beautiful places in Cauterets. The highlights are the fabulous Pont d'Espagne, the impressive Cirque du Lys and the enchanting Lac de Gaube.

The former is an amazing structure under which the waters of the Gave du Marcadau and the Gave de Gaube flow. The surrounding countryside provides an exquisite panoramic view along this old route to neighbouring Spain.

The Cirque du Lys can be reached either by hiking or by cable car. No matter how much effort it takes to get there, the reward is always worth it, as an exceptional view awaits. Admire the Vignemale, Le Pic du Midi and the ridges, as their height reminds you how small we humans are in comparison.

Just beside the Cirque du Lys there is also a Bikepark for fans of mountain biking. Climb the slopes of a specially designed course, in an incredible setting. A unique moment that mountain bikers won’t forget in a hurry!

The Lac de Gaube offers a perfect insight into the nature the national park has to offer. Take the GR10 trail or chairlift to admire the turquoise water of the lake, overlooked by the Vignale. The highest peak in the French Pyrénées gives the lake another dimension.

Finally, it is also possible to see all these sights... From the air, when you opt for a paragliding experience. Thrill-seekers might also be interested in a rock climbing session or via ferrata.

The craziest thing about it all is that this stunning destination is less than 20 kilometres from our campsite in the Hautes-Pyrénées!