Loudenvielle, Balnéa
After passing through Luchon, you will arrive over the Col de Peyresourde mountain pass. Take the time to stop at the top to admire the view. Once going back down through the Louron valley, head towards the Génos-Loudenvielle lake. The Pyrénées here welcome you with a bath in the naturally warm and comforting spa waters, it is in the open air with a view towards a magnificent barrier of mountain tops, some more than 3000 metres high.
Your itinerary
Loudenvielle, Balnéa
Exit the A64 heading towards Luchon (40k/46min). Cross through Luchon, heading towards the Col de Peyresourde (14k/22min). After crossing the mountain pass turn right after Estarvielle, head towards Loudenvielle (10k/16min).
Download the itinerary
The Col de Peyresourde
The pass is wide and the view magnificent. Do stop at the famous wooden cafe for a crepe, just 50 cents each, 12 for €4.50, go for it! Whilst the patron is making the crepes he will show you his collection of Chinese puzzles. But we had better get going... as you continue up the pass there are many interesting villages along the way, each has its own treasures - Roman chapels, precious treasures, superb frescos to thank God for the rewarding exchange of goods, mainly leather and wool with Spain, taking place after the discovery of the New World.
The Mont village and its Roman chapel, listed Historical Monument
" Mont is a superb village of just 20 inhabitants that has exceptional views. "
On the way down from the mountain pass, Mont is a superb village of just 20 inhabitants that has exceptional views. Its church is unique, with its exterior fresco that represents scenes of the Last Judgment, preserved since the 13th century.
The interior is also decorated with fantastic paintings. For 2 euros a soundtrack will give a you a comprehensive explanation.
The Genos Loudenvielle lake
" Take the time to climb to the towers of Genos and Loudenvielle to enjoy the view."
As you are still coming down from the col and at the village of Estarvielle, head for the bottom of the valley and the Génos-Loudenvielle lake. There are many lovely walks along the water's edge.
There is an circuit of an hour maximum and on the flat. But take the time to climb to the towers of Genos and Loudenvielle to enjoy the view. A local legend says that an underground passage connects them both.
Yellow waymarkings • 1 hour
Balnéa
" The view from the waters is of 3000m peaks dressed like a wall as if to protect the quiet of the valley. "
The premier spa centre in the French Pyrenees
It is finally time to slip into the arming waters of the Balnéa spa. The view from the waters is of 3000m peaks dressed like a wall as if to protect the quiet of the valley. Admire this view from the soothing warm waters of the outdoor lagoons, remembering that just a few hours ago you were up amongst these summits.
2 hour pass. Massages by reservation.
On the shore of the Genos Loudenvielle lake • www.balnea.fr
Evening and night in Loudenvielle
The Hautes-Pyrenees holiday shop proposes you a small selection of very favorite accommodations in Loudenvielle and surroundings. For more choices, contact directly the Shop to 05 62 56 70 00.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
A lovely diversion
" A real institution in this village! "
« Chez Roger », at Loudenvielle
A real institution in this village! It has been open continuously since 1930, initially run by Lulu and Roger, it was then taken over by their daughter Josette. Claire, their grand daughter, and Laura as well as Flavie, great-grand daugthers, can also be seen around. Tourists and locals all find something to love in this bistrot, where everyone comes together to play Belote and sing the songs of the Pyrenees.
11 chemin de Clarabide – 65510 Loudenvielle.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Favourite places
- La Table de Saoussas at Loudenvielle :
This friendly and welcoming restaurant specialises in cooking using local produce. There is also the opportunity to visit the watermill on the other side of the road, it has a beautiful pastoral setting.
Chemin Saoussas – 65510 Loudenvielle
+33 5 62 99 96 40
A new establishment, atypical and full of surprising flavours. This bistrot has also an artistic and cultural vocation and is set up in Lily's ancient sheep fold. Chez Lily offers tapas and market cuisine using local produce.
Centre de Montagne, Le Village – 65240 Germ
+33 5 62 39 23 03