Pic du Midi de Bigorre
Ascend to the Pic du Midi observatory for unparalleled Pyrenean views and a glimpse into astronomical discovery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Pic du Midi de Bigorre
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to the Pic du Midi observatory for unparalleled Pyrenean views and a glimpse into astronomical discovery.
"Amazing views if the sky is clear! A must-do if you're in the area."
🧥 Dress in Layers
It's significantly colder at the summit. Bring warm clothing, even in summer! :cloud:
☕ Bring Your Own Snacks
The on-site cafe is pricey. Pack your own food and drinks to save money. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Pyrenean Views
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the French Pyrenees. A truly unforgettable sight.
The Historic Observatory
Summit
Explore the fascinating 19th-century observatory and learn about astronomical discoveries.
Stargazing Experience
Summit
Witness the cosmos like never before from one of Europe's highest observatories.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Cable Car in Advance
Weather is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress in Layers
It's significantly colder at the summit. Bring warm clothing, even in summer! :cloud:
☕ Bring Your Own Snacks
The on-site cafe is pricey. Pack your own food and drinks to save money. :moneybag:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Factor in cable car queues and time to explore. A visit can easily take 3-4 hours. :clock:
🗣️ French Language Skills
Most tours and explanations are in French. Consider this for overnight stays. :fr:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress in Layers
It's significantly colder at the summit. Bring warm clothing, even in summer! :cloud:
☕ Bring Your Own Snacks
The on-site cafe is pricey. Pack your own food and drinks to save money. :moneybag:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Factor in cable car queues and time to explore. A visit can easily take 3-4 hours. :clock:
🗣️ French Language Skills
Most tours and explanations are in French. Consider this for overnight stays. :fr:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, calling it a 'must-do' for its stunning mountain vistas and the fascinating Pic du Midi observatory. However, some find the cost of the Pic du Midi cable car high, and the limited accessibility of activities for non-French speakers, especially during overnight stays, can be a significant drawback.
"A mountain peak with observatory, restaurant & amazing views... if the sky is clear! When we visited there were a few interesting exhibits, with a photo history of the peak and a sun-tracking telescope where one could see flares. We booked the first cable car of the day so found it nice and quiet. Cost is hard to justify but if you like views and are in the area it's the place to be."
Robin Rainton
"Hiked up to pic du midi late June. The hike is all the time with wonderful scenery and open views of mountains peaks. Near the lake I met a group of friendly Lama."
Noel Zahra
"we first became aware of this through a television programme and decided that we had to do it. we wanted to book and overnight visit as we felt that this would give us the best experience. so in August 2023 we booked for July 2025, yes the wait is that long. when the time finally arrived needless to say we were very excited.
We arrived at the cable car and were transported to the observatory, we were greeted and had to wait for someone who could speak some English as although we can speak fluent Spanish our French is not so good. we were given directions to our room and then told that we needed to be at a certain point for the welcome meeting. Our room was basic but clean and comfortable. we were not expecting luxury as we are aware that this is a working observatory, but the bed was super comfortable and the views from the windows we breathtaking.
we arrived at the welcoming meeting to discover that all of the planned activities would only be conducted in French, we asked if there was any information available for non French speakers only to be told no. Whilst the staff did everything that they could to help and make our stay the best that they could, they struggled to communicate with us. This basically meant that 98% of the planned activities were simply not accessible to us. We missed the planned tour of the facilities as this was only in French so there was not point in us attending this. Dinner was really very good and the food and drink were exceptional. The sunset was spectacular followed by a short film, which did have an English translation, however the following planetarium activity was again only available in French. The night time stars were lovely and although we did get to look through a large telescope the explanations and information meant nothing to us as once again it was only in French.
We did have a great time, but for the cost that we paid, to have 98% of the activities simply not available to us it was disappointing. This is a service that attracts and international clientele, to assume that everyone who attends will be able to speak fluent French is completely unrealistic. Not to have written information or audio guides available is simply lazy or arrogant.
So my warning would be that yes the experience was amazing it was somewhat ruined by the fact that we were completely excluded from the majority of the planned experiences that were available. if you do not speak fluent French then maybe you should reconsider booking an overnight stay."
Andrew Mattocks-Lewis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main access point for the Pic du Midi cable car is from La Mongie. You can drive to La Mongie, which has parking facilities. Alternatively, public transport options might be available from nearby towns like Bagnères-de-Bigorre, though these can be less frequent. It's advisable to check local transport schedules in advance.
Yes, there is parking available at the base station in La Mongie for visitors taking the Pic du Midi cable car. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot. Some reviews suggest the parking can fill up quickly.
Yes, it is possible to hike up to the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, though it's a challenging trek. Hikers often report wonderful scenery and open mountain views. This is a serious undertaking and requires good physical condition and preparation, typically done in late June or during summer months.
The Pic du Midi cable car ride offers spectacular views as it ascends the mountain. The journey itself is part of the experience, providing increasingly dramatic panoramas of the Pyrenean landscape. It's a smooth and efficient way to reach the summit.
While the Pic du Midi cable car is the most common and accessible method, experienced mountaineers might consider challenging multi-day treks. For most visitors, the cable car is the only practical option to reach the Pic du Midi observatory.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost of the Pic du Midi cable car can be significant, and some visitors find it hard to justify. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing, as it can vary based on season and any special packages. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Tickets for the Pic du Midi cable car are best purchased online through the official Pic du Midi website. This ensures you get your preferred time slot and avoids disappointment, as tickets can sell out. You can also purchase them at the ticket office in La Mongie, but advance booking is strongly advised.
Discounts for the Pic du Midi observatory and cable car may be available for children, students, or seniors. It's essential to check the official website for current offers and eligibility criteria. Family packages might also be an option.
The operating hours for the Pic du Midi cable car and the observatory vary depending on the season. Generally, the first cable car departs in the morning, and the last descent is in the late afternoon or early evening. Always check the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date schedule.
While it might be possible to buy tickets on the day at the La Mongie base station, it's not recommended. Tickets for the Pic du Midi cable car often sell out, especially during busy periods. Pre-booking online is the safest way to guarantee your visit to the Pic du Midi observatory.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
At the Pic du Midi observatory, you can explore exhibits detailing the history of astronomy and the peak, see a sun-tracking telescope, and enjoy the incredible panoramic views. For those staying overnight, there are guided tours and stargazing sessions, though these are often in French.
Yes, families can enjoy the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. Children are often fascinated by the observatory and the vast mountain landscapes. The cable car ride itself is an adventure. However, be mindful of the altitude and ensure children are dressed warmly.
The summit of the Pic du Midi de Bigorre is at an altitude of 2,877 meters (9,439 feet). Visitors may experience mild effects of the altitude, such as slight breathlessness. It's advisable to take it easy upon arrival and stay hydrated.
The accessible areas for visitors at the Pic du Midi summit are somewhat limited to specific viewing platforms and exhibition spaces. While you get amazing views, you cannot walk 360 degrees around the entire peak, which some visitors find disappointing.
The Pic du Midi observatory features exhibits on the history of the observatory, astronomical discoveries, and the science of the stars. You can see historical equipment and learn about the ongoing research conducted at this high-altitude facility.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant and a cafe at the Pic du Midi observatory. However, reviews indicate that the prices are quite high, so many visitors recommend bringing your own food and drinks to enjoy while taking in the views.
The food at the Pic du Midi restaurant is generally described as very good, with exceptional food and drink quality, especially for those staying overnight. However, the high cost is a recurring theme in reviews.
Absolutely! Bringing your own snacks and drinks is a common tip for visiting the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. This is a great way to save money, especially since the on-site cafe and restaurant are known to be expensive.
Information on specific dietary options at the Pic du Midi restaurant is not widely detailed in reviews. It's advisable to contact the restaurant directly in advance if you have specific dietary requirements to ensure they can accommodate you.
For those booking an overnight stay at the Pic du Midi observatory, dinner is typically included and is often praised for its quality. Breakfast is also usually provided. These meals are part of the unique observatory experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography at the Pic du Midi de Bigorre are during the golden hours – sunrise and sunset – for dramatic lighting. Clear days offer stunning panoramic shots of the Pyrenees. Stargazing at night provides incredible opportunities for astrophotography.
You can take photos from the designated viewing platforms and public areas of the Pic du Midi observatory. While the views are expansive, the accessible areas for walking around are limited, so you'll be photographing from specific vantage points.
Yes, the Pic du Midi observatory is an ideal location for astrophotography due to its high altitude and minimal light pollution. If you are staying overnight, you'll have excellent opportunities to capture the night sky. Ensure you have the right equipment and knowledge.
For general photography, a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic landscapes. If you're interested in astrophotography, a camera with good low-light performance and a fast lens (low f-number) is recommended. A tripod is essential for night shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in public areas of the Pic du Midi observatory. However, professional photography or filming may require special permits. Always check the observatory's guidelines if you plan on extensive photo or video shoots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Dress everyone in warm layers, as it's significantly colder at the summit. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as on-site options are expensive. While most of the guided tours are in French, the visual aspects of the observatory and the stunning scenery are universally engaging. Ensure children are comfortable with heights and the potential effects of altitude.
🌌 Stargazers & Astronomy Enthusiasts
If you're serious about stargazing, consider booking an overnight stay at the Pic du Midi. This immersive experience allows you to witness the stars in their full glory and potentially participate in guided astronomical sessions. Be aware that these sessions are predominantly in French, but the visual spectacle of the universe from this vantage point is universally understood and deeply moving.
⛰️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
For those who prefer a less strenuous approach, the cable car still provides access to breathtaking natural beauty. The panoramic views from the summit are unparalleled, showcasing the rugged grandeur of the Pyrenees. Even without hiking, the natural environment at the Pic du Midi de Bigorre is a major draw.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pic du Midi Observatory Experience
For those seeking a truly unique experience, the Pic du Midi observatory accommodation offers an overnight stay. This allows visitors to witness the sunset and sunrise from the summit, enjoy unparalleled stargazing opportunities away from light pollution, and participate in guided astronomical activities. While the rooms are basic, the experience of sleeping under a blanket of stars at nearly 3,000 meters is unforgettable. However, it's crucial to note that most of the guided activities during overnight stays are conducted exclusively in French, which can be a significant barrier for non-French speakers, as highlighted by some visitor reviews.
Despite the language barrier for some activities, the sheer beauty of the location and the scientific significance of the Pic du Midi observatory make it a compelling destination. The chance to see the Pyrenees from above and to learn about the cosmos from a professional observatory is a rare privilege. Planning your visit around clear weather is paramount to fully appreciate the magic of this mountain peak.
Navigating the Pic du Midi Cable Car
When planning your trip, consider the time of day for your cable car ascent. Morning rides often offer clearer skies and fewer crowds, making for a more serene experience and better photographic opportunities. Late afternoon rides can be magical as the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the mountains, though they tend to be busier. The entire visit, including queuing for the cable car, exploring the summit, and the descent, can easily take 3-4 hours, so allocate your time accordingly.
While the cable car provides easy access, remember that the summit is at a high altitude. Visitors are advised to take it easy upon arrival and stay hydrated. The Pic du Midi de Bigorre is a place where weather can change rapidly, so checking forecasts and dressing in layers is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit