Saint-Lary, a family resort in the Pyrenees

Saint-Lary-Soulan is one of the most popular and largest resorts in the Pyrenees. It's particularly beloved by families and boasts approximately 100 km of slopes, 59 pistes, and around twenty ski lifts. Investment in snow cannons ensures excellent snow conditions for a large part of the season. Let's take a quick look back to understand the rise of this resort, so dear to the hearts of locals, and here are 5 good reasons to visit.

A resort born from the exploitation of large economic projects

The Aure Valley, where Saint-Lary is located, was not a major tourist destination before the ingenious idea of a villager. At the end of the 19th century, major construction projects were launched in the region, including the building of significant hydroelectric infrastructure. These projects required thousands of workers for several years. They brought their presence to the village and surrounding areas, adding to that of the local residents. All this lively activity gave the mayor at the time, Vincent Mir (who served 10 consecutive terms, elected for 47 years), an idea: to further develop the village and capitalize on its tourism potential by creating a ski resort.

In 1957, the first cable car, Pic Lumière, was christened, opening up the slopes of Pla d'Adet.

Photo book Saint-Lary Soulan AGIR or the story of a mountain commune, by Vincent Mir.

Key dates

• 1967 : Athletes come to train for the Grenoble games in Saint-Lary.
• 1964 : opening of Saint-Lary Espiaube, the second ski area.
• 1968 : Vincent Mir's daughter (Isabelle) wins a silver medal.
• 1974 : the Tour de France makes its first arrival in Saint-Lary, at Pla d'Adet — Luis Ocaña scores a memorable victory there.
• 1988 : the thermal part of the activities offered in Saint-Lary develops.
• 1991 : Jean-Henri Mir, Vincent Mir's nephew, succeeds him as the new Mayor.
• 1997 : The Station is about to celebrate its 40th anniversary and is tragically mourning the death of its founder, Vincent Mir, in a car accident.
• 2005 : Opening of the thermal leisure center.
• 2009 : Inauguration of a new cable car.
• 2021 : new stage finish, this time at the Col du Portet.
• 2024 : Thirteenth stage finish in Saint-Lary, at Pla d'Adet.

5 reasons to convince you to go on holiday to Saint-Lary

Saint-Lary Soulan is one of the most popular resorts for families. It enjoys significant brand recognition, meaning it's the first place that comes to mind for holidays, both in winter and summer. What's the secret to its success? We'll tell you everything!

1. A love affair with the Tour de France

Saint-Lary has a strong connection with the Tour de France : more than 13 stages have finished there, at Pla d'Adet as well as at the Col du Portet. The legendary climb to Pla d'Adet, 16 km at over 8%, continues to attract thousands of cyclists every summer who come to test themselves on the slopes tackled by the peloton.

2. The largest ski area in the French Pyrenees

With approximately 100 km of slopes spread across three sectors (Pla d'Adet, Espiaube, Saint-Lary 2400), Saint-Lary Soulan is the largest ski resort in the French Pyrenees (the Tourmalet area is similar in size but comprises two separate resorts). From family-friendly green runs to snowparks for experienced riders, there's something for every level, with guaranteed snow cover thanks to a substantial snowmaking system.

3. A sports and recreational playground, summer and winter

In winter, beyond downhill skiing, there's ski touring, snowshoeing, and guided outings. In summer, the valley becomes a renowned spot for whitewater sports : canyoning, hiking, downhill mountain biking, and paragliding all find ideal terrain here. All around, dozens of emerald-blue lakes, including those in the Néouvielle Nature Reserve, invite you to stroll and contemplate the scenery.

4. Thermal baths for all types

Saint-Lary Soulan boasts its own thermal baths, designed for both spa-goers and athletes, with a fully equipped fitness center, and for family relaxation thanks to an attractive leisure and thermal area. The perfect way to follow a day of sport with a well-deserved moment of rest and relaxation.

5. A top training ground for elite athletes

Saint-Lary also attracts professional athletes, such as handball and rugby players, who come to train before their season and play matches at the local stadium. Numerous training camps are organized there in the spring and summer, for both professionals and promising young athletes.

Where to stay in Saint-Lary Soulan?

The resort offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all tastes: hotels in the heart of the village, allowing you to easily walk to shops and restaurants; residences and apartments at the foot of the slopes for families; chalets for holidays with friends; and campsites in the valley for those on a tighter budget or outdoor enthusiasts. Depending on the season, remember to book early : both summer (Tour de France, hiking) and winter (school holidays) are very popular periods.

How to get to Saint-Lary Soulan?

Saint-Lary-Soulan is located in the Aure Valley, about 1 hour from Lannemezan and 1 hour 30 minutes from Tarbes.

• By car, allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Pau and 2 hours from Toulouse via the A64 then the RD929.
• By train, the nearest stations are Lannemezan and Tarbes, with a connection by SNCF bus to Saint-Lary.
• By plane, Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées airport is about 80 km away, Toulouse-Blagnac airport is 150 km away.

Once there, the resort prioritizes sustainable mobility : free shuttles between sectors, a ski-in/ski-out village, and a compact center that makes getting around easy on foot. Everything you need to fully enjoy the valley without relying on a car.

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