
Petit Train d'Artouste
Europe's highest tourist train offering breathtaking Pyrenean vistas via a scenic cable car and a memorable mountain journey.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds

Petit Train d'Artouste
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's highest tourist train offering breathtaking Pyrenean vistas via a scenic cable car and a memorable mountain journey.
"Amazing scenery and our ticket included the cable car to the train station, the return trip to the lake and plenty of time to walk to the lake."

🧥 Pack Warm Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring a jacket, even in summer, as the return trip can get chilly in the shade.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring the area around the lake. The path can be rocky.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Europe's Highest Train Ride
Pyrenees Mountains
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the narrow-gauge railway, Europe's highest tourist train.

Scenic Cable Car Ascent
Base Station to Train Station
Enjoy a thrilling 10-15 minute cable car ride with stunning mountain vistas before reaching the train.

Lake and Dam Exploration
Final Train Stop
Spend over an hour exploring the picturesque lake and dam, with opportunities for photos and enjoying nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for a Full Mountain Day
Consider Little Ones Carefully
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring a jacket, even in summer, as the return trip can get chilly in the shade.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring the area around the lake. The path can be rocky.
⏰ Allow a Full Day
Don't rush! Enjoy the cable car, train, and time at the lake. Parking is ample.
👶 Consider Age Appropriateness
The walk to the lake may be tough for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring a jacket, even in summer, as the return trip can get chilly in the shade.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring the area around the lake. The path can be rocky.
⏰ Allow a Full Day
Don't rush! Enjoy the cable car, train, and time at the lake. Parking is ample.
👶 Consider Age Appropriateness
The walk to the lake may be tough for very young children or those with mobility issues.
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The train ride itself offers easy and frequent chances to capture stunning mountain scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Petit Train d'Artouste as a stunning mountain adventure, highlighting the spectacular views from Europe's highest train and the scenic cable car ride. Many find it great value for money, offering a full day of exploration. However, some caution that the walk to the lake may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
"Amazing train tour!
Better to plan a day for this mountain adventure. Large parking area right in front of the cable car. Few coffee shops there. Take the lift for 10-15 min ride and you end up at the train station, decent cafeteria there with breathtaking views, nice terrace, good food and beer, normal prices.
The train raid after that takes almost 1h. Spectacular views all along to the last stop. Then you have more than 1h to explore the area, nice lake, then you can come back, another 1h.
I cannot recommend this for children under 5. The train raid is ok, but the 15min walk to the lake wouldn’t be suitable for families with babies or very young children."
Stoyan Nikolov
"Stunning & slightly hair-raising adventure on the highest train in Europe! No snow when we visited but an amazing experience in the Pyrenees. Wonderful views on the way up to the train via cable car, watch the marmots play, & listen out for the cowbells."
david perry
"Amazing scenery and our ticket included the cable car to the train station, the return trip to the lake and plenty of time to walk to the lake, dam, still leaving time for food. Great value and would highly recommend. Cafe/restaurant at the upper station and a snack bar at the lake itself. It is a mountain, bring layers and a rain jacket!"
Sean McDermott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Petit Train d'Artouste is accessed via a cable car from the Artouste-Fabrèges ski resort area. There is a large parking area available at the base station.
Yes, there is a large parking area right in front of the cable car station, making it convenient for visitors.
You'll take a 10-15 minute cable car ride up to the train station, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Pyrenees.
Information on public transport options can be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easier access to the base station. Check local transport schedules for the Pyrenees region.
Artouste is located in the French Pyrenees. Follow signs for the Artouste-Fabrèges ski resort from nearby towns. The base of the cable car is well-marked.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices typically include the cable car ride, the train journey, and time to explore the lake. It's considered great value for the experience.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot. Search for 'train d artouste réservation' for booking options.
Tickets usually cover the round trip via cable car to the train station, the 1-hour train journey to the lake, and ample time to explore the area.
The train operates seasonally, typically from late spring to early autumn. It's best to check the official website for current operating dates and times.
Information on specific discounts can vary. It's advisable to check the official ticketing page or inquire directly for any available concessions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The train travels slowly for about an hour, offering spectacular, uninterrupted views of the Pyrenean landscape. It's a unique experience on Europe's highest tourist railway.
At the final stop, you have over an hour to explore the beautiful lake and dam. There's a snack bar and toilets available here.
The walk from the train to the lake is on a mountain passage with rocks. It's not recommended for those with mobility or breathing problems, or very young children.
Toilets are available at the upper station (after the cable car) and at the lake/dam area where the train stops.
Expect stunning, high-mountain scenery with dramatic peaks, valleys, and the serene lake. You might also spot marmots and hear cowbells.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a decent cafeteria at the upper cable car station with breathtaking views and normal prices. A snack bar is also available at the lake itself.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally acceptable, especially for picnics by the lake. However, there are food options available if you prefer to purchase them.
Prices at the cafes are generally considered normal for a mountain tourist attraction, offering good value for the location and views.
Specific dietary options may vary. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff upon arrival about vegetarian or vegan choices.
The snack bar typically offers lighter fare like ice cream, drinks, and simple snacks, perfect for a break during your exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The train ride itself offers constant photo opportunities. The views from the cable car, the lake, and the dam are also spectacular.
Yes, it's very easy to take pictures from the train as it travels slowly through the scenic landscape.
Morning light often provides the best conditions for photography, offering clear skies and softer shadows. However, any time of day offers stunning views.
A wide-angle lens can be beneficial for capturing the expansive mountain vistas and the scale of the landscape.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you have children under 5, you might opt to stay closer to the train station area or enjoy the views from there, rather than attempting the full walk to the lake. For older children, it's a fantastic opportunity to experience high-altitude nature and enjoy the novelty of Europe's highest train.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
While the designated walk to the lake is manageable for most, more adventurous hikers might find opportunities for further exploration in the surrounding areas, depending on trail accessibility and conditions. Remember to be prepared with appropriate gear and knowledge of the terrain.
📸 Photographers
Morning light is often ideal for capturing the best shots, but the dramatic landscapes are impressive throughout the day. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to fully encompass the grandeur of the Pyrenees. The slow pace of the train also allows for easy, unobstructed photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey: Cable Car to Train
This narrow-gauge railway is renowned as Europe's highest tourist train. The journey itself is a slow, deliberate ride lasting approximately one hour. It winds its way through the mountains, providing continuous, unobstructed vistas of rugged peaks, verdant valleys, and the serene alpine environment. The slow pace allows ample opportunity to soak in the scenery and capture stunning photographs.
Exploring the Lake and Dam
While the train ride is accessible to most, the walk from the train stop to the lake itself involves navigating a mountain passage with rocks. This part of the excursion is not ideal for families with very young children (under 5), individuals with mobility challenges, or those with respiratory issues. However, for those who can manage it, the views and the tranquility of the lake are well worth the effort.
Practicalities for a Mountain Visit
Comfortable footwear is also essential, as you'll be walking on mountain terrain around the lake. The path can be rocky, so sturdy shoes are a must. Consider this when planning your attire for the day.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit