At the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, at an altitude of 2,877 meters, lies the oldest high-mountain observatory in the world.
Accessible by a spectacular cable car, this extraordinary site offers panoramic views across the entire Pyrenees mountain range.
Today, it combines advanced research with public access, featuring exhibitions, a planetarium, and immersive experiences. A must-see!

The extraordinary Pic du Midi de Bigorre

The Pic du Midi de Bigorre, between Sers and Bagnère de Bigorre, benefits from a privileged geographical location for observing the Pyrenees mountain range.

Located high above the French Alps, its 2,877-meter panoramic views of all the peaks, from the Basque coast to Biarritz and as far as Ariège, a distance of nearly 300 km ... Quite a feat!



But above all, the Pic du Midi de Bigorre is home to the oldest high-mountain observatory in the world.

one of the world's leading observatories today , thanks to its exceptional location and the outstanding purity of its air.

From the beginning of the 18th century, cutting-edge scientific work was carried out there, and the first elements of the observatory were installed in 1878.

This observatory notably produced, from 1962 onwards, the best terrestrial images of the sun, with its revolutionary Jean Rösch telescope , which then served as a model for all solar observatories in the world .

The Pic du Midi de Bigorre is extraordinary, not least because of its breathtaking cable car, which truly seems to float in the sky. Departing from La Mongie (1785m), the ascent takes approximately 15 minutes, in two sections with a stop at Taoulet (2341m).

With only three intermediate pylons, you reach a height of up to 320m above the ground – exactly the same height as the Eiffel Tower!

A day at the Pic du Midi, to get up close to the stars

Once you reach the summit, take the time to identify the peaks using the panoramic tables , then familiarize yourself with the Pyrenees environment using the interpretation tables ; guides are on site to explain the panorama.

Then marvel at the science area , a space adorned with huge visuals of skies flooded with stars.

You will find fun interactive experiences on the favorite themes of the Pic du Midi, a gallery on the history of the observatory and on the International Dark Sky Reserve , and an exhibition of scientific instruments used at the Pic du Midi.

Each of the 5 major scientific themes of the Pic is addressed by an interactive platform, in the form of a drawing that unfolds progressively: the atmosphere ("journey to the center of the clouds"), light ("a brief history of light"), the sun ("target sun"), the moon and small bodies of the solar system ("from the moon to the earth"), cosmic rays ("the mysterious particles").

Visit the planetarium , under the Baillaud dome, the oldest astronomical installation at the observatory, installed in 1908. In this immersive space, experience educational film screenings on the Milky Way, constellations, the genesis of the universe, and the history of the Pic.

And finally, the highlight of the show: head to the Sky Bridge! This 12-meter-long metal walkway is stretched out over the void, like the prow of a ship. An immersive and dizzying experience… in the sky and among the stars. Be warned, thrills guaranteed!

To recover from your emotions, you will be able to have a panoramic lunch in the restaurant 'le 2877'…

The epic story of the Pic du Midi

Although the first scientific work was carried out as early as 1706 – by François de Plantade who studied the solar corona – the idea of ​​an observatory emerged in 1774, in the mind of Professor Jean d'Arcet , chemist and professor at the Collège de France.

Subsequently, the Pic became a popular research site , and its ascent via the Col du Tourmalet is relatively easy, although it requires a full day's effort. An inn was even established near the summit.

Despite this plebiscite, it would take until 1860 for the observatory project to be revived, and nearly another twenty years before the first stone was laid, in 1878, under the direction of retired General Charles du Bois Champion de Nansouty and engineer Célestin-Xavier Vaussenat.

In fact, De Nansouty and Vaussenat had already established a temporary station in 1873, where they lived in precarious conditions.

This station would nevertheless prove invaluable, notably allowing them to anticipate the major flooding of the Garonne and Adour basins in 1875 and to raise the alarm. The construction of the observatory proved extremely difficult , as its components could only be transported on the backs of men and mules, up steep slopes, from July to mid-October.

The observatory became operational in 1880, initially comprising a 6-meter astronomical dome and a meridian room on a platform measuring 8 to 10 meters square, near the houses.

It was gradually modernized, and in 1907, it reached a new milestone with the installation of its first telescope by astronomer Benjamin Baillaud , one of the largest in the world at the time with a diameter of 50 cm. In 1909, this telescope refuted the existence of canals on Mars, placing the Pic du Midi Observatory at the forefront of research.

In 1922, wireless telegraphy was installed, in 1949 the electrical network (electricity has been supplied by generators since 1911) and finally the cable car in 1952 after 10 years of work.

The Pic du Midi will enable scientific advances in a wide variety of fields : meteorology for aviation, cosmic radiation, atmospheric electricity, and even mountain radioactivity. In addition to the alpine garden, the Pic du Midi also houses a high-altitude laboratory dedicated to botany and plant biology, as well as soil studies.

In the early 1960s, after another decade of work and development, the Pic du Midi Observatory had almost its current appearance... A dozen observation domes were installed, the last of which, the highest, was inaugurated in 1983. It houses the largest telescope in France , allowing the observatory to remain competitive despite the rise of giant telescopes.

From the 2000s onwards, the observatory, whose operation is very expensive, had to find new sources of income to continue to exist. New work was undertaken to allow public access, and new scientific fields were opened up: environmental physics, earth sciences and physiology.

Don't miss visiting this exceptional site when you stay at Chalet La Source .
Thrills and wonder guaranteed!

A historic city of Bigorre, Lourdes has been a major place of Catholic pilgrimage since the appearances of the Virgin in 1858, welcoming 3 million pilgrims from around the world each year, who came to meditate at the Massabielle cave and make the gesture of water .

A unique and extraordinary place in many ways, which is well worth spending a day there during your stay at the La Source chalet !

Appearances of the Virgin, to the sanctuary Notre Dame de Lourdes

In 1858, the young Bernadette Soubirous was 14 years old; Very poor and fragile health, she can neither read nor write. She lives in misery with her family in an old dungeon.

On February 11, 1858, Bernadette went to the Rocher de Massabielle, on the banks of the Gave, to pick up dead wood. This place is called the "pig tutte", as it is dirty and obscure.

This is where Bernadette hears "like a gale". She then sees in a niche of the rock, a female silhouette that she will describe as follows: "A lady dressed in white; she had a white dress, a white veil, a blue belt and a yellow rose on each foot".

This is the first appearance of the appearances of the Virgin Mary to the young Bernadette; 17 others will follow, until July 16, 1858.

In 1862, miraculous healings recognized by the Catholic Church will follow in 1862, and the official recognition of the appearances of “the white lady” in Bernadette.

Bernadette Soubirous, who died in 1879, will be canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1933. It is possible today to visit the places where Bernadette lived, following "Le Chemin de Bernadette".

At the scene of the appearances, the Church undertook the construction of a sanctuary in 1871. The Notre-Dame de Lourdes sanctuary, which extends over 52 hectares, conceals multiple treasures: cave of Massabielle, Basilica, Crypt, Basilica Notre-Dame du Rosaire, Saint-Pie X basilica, cross paths…

Believing or not, everyone will find in heavy an atmosphere conducive to meditation and reflection, prayer or meditation. The heart of the Marian city gives off a unique energy that must be lived at least once!

During the nights of Lourdes, the sanctuary is a place of highlights where thousands of pilgrims meet or torchlight processions, followed by a mass in the Pie X basilica.

During Marian processions, everyone holds a candle in their hands, and the esplanade is covered with these fragile lights. Everyone expresses their intentions of prayers there, in as many languages ​​as of nationalities represented.

The heart of the sanctuary remains the Massabielle cave. Adorned with a statue of the Virgin, the pilgrims come to pray there and touch the wall of the rock in act of faith, a stone which has become smooth, sweet and shiny since the visit of millions of pilgrims.

Lourdes water, and the gesture of water

During the ninth appearance, the lady said to Bernadette: "Go drink and wash you at La Fontaine". Bernadette then released a hitherto unknown source, and where the precious Eau de Lourdes comes from.

It was in contact with this water that the first healing miracles were accomplished.

Since then, Lourdes water has fueled the fountains of the sanctuary. This water has become a pilgrimage in itself, a hope for millions of patients around the world, and pilgrims around the world come to drink it and swim in it.

Everyone drinks water, and puts water on the face. This is called the gesture of water. It is also possible to completely immerse yourself in swimming pools, managed by volunteer hospitals.

Scientific analyzes did not find any special property to him. As Saint Bernadette said: "One drop is enough! It is the faith that it is necessary! »»

Ancient history of Lourdes: the castle of Lourdes

Contrasting with the contemporary constructions of the sanctuary and the spirit of universal brotherhood that reigns there, we are almost surprised to find in Lourdes, overlooking the city from a rocky spur, a castle with huge ramparts, vestige of medieval wars.

In fact, the site has been inhabited for millennia, as evidenced by prehistoric vestiges, including the famous “Lourdes horse” in mammoth ivory. From the Roman era, fortifications were erected on this strategic position between plain and valleys.

In the 8th ^century under the reign of Charlemagne, king of the Franks, this castle then named Château de Mirambel, was occupied by the Saracens. Charlemagne comes to siege it, in vain for months. Charlemagne then proposed to the sultan, Mirat, to leave him the castle in exchange for his conversion to the Catholic faith. Mirat accepts and receives baptism. He chooses the name of Lorus. The castle of Mirambel, and by extension the village, take the name of "Lorda", derived from the Arabic name, "(El) Ouarda" (La Rose) which will then become "Lourdes".

The castle in its current version dates from the 11th century, where it is occupied by the counts of Bigorre. Throughout the Middle Ages, during the Hundred Years War and until the 16th century, this coveted castle will be the subject of several seats. Given to the English by the Treaty of Bretigny in 1360, it will be taken up by the French in 1407.

In the 17th century, the castle became a royal fortress and only welcomed prisoners. He will finally be bought by the city of Lourdes in 1894, which set up the Pyrenean museum there.

If the Hautes Pyrenees evoke above all the mountain and nature, they are also full of more epicurean pleasures ... 

Delicious regional specialties await you, which will make your stay all the darkest and authentic. Whether you are sweet or salty, rather entry or dessert, you will enjoy it!

The La Source chalet is a partner of many businesses close to producers , so do not hesitate to visit them!

Savory specialties

Confit and foie gras
The goose or duck confit and foie gras are the great Haut-Pyrenean classics. Very practical, we cook them in any season and any occasion!

La Garbure
A winter dish, from Béarn: an invigorating soup, a unique dish combining seasonal vegetables and Tarbais beans, simmered with confit and the country's ham bone, the famous "Camayou".

Bigorre black pork
one of the most famous culinary specialties of the Pyrenees, being subject to a protected designation (AOP). This black pork, cousin of the Iberian pata Negra, is raised in the open air where it is essentially feeding on acorns and chestnuts. Its parsley meat with exceptionally fragrant fat, gives very typical hams and cold meats.

The sheep of Barèges-Gavarnie
This so-called Barégeoise race exists only in its appellation of protected origin (AOP). Well suited to the pastures and climate of the Toy country, its meat is exceptional, fine and fragrant. Each year at the end of September, Luz Saint-Sauveur organizes his famous "chop fair" where you can taste delicious grills.

The trout of the Pyrenees
A special mention to this fish farming of rainbow trout and Fario, founded in Argeles Gazosts more than 50 years ago. In the cold and pure waters of the Gave de Pau, the trout grow slowly, their flesh being therefore particularly tasty and not very fat.

Tarbais bean
This white bean with fine skin and fndent flesh is protected by a red label and a protected geographical indication (IGP). Delicious in cassoulet, in garbure or as an accompaniment to a square of lamb, or even cold in salads with basil.

The soft onion of Trébons
This ancient variety, specific to Bigorre, is currently in demand for protected geographical indication (IGP). With a sweet and sweet flavor, this onion is consumed throughout the year, both raw and cooked.

Sweet specialties

The pie of the Pyrenees, nature or with blueberries
is a flower -shaped pastry, soft to heart and crisp on the outside, often covered with icing sugar. Funny, each village, each craftsman has his recipe and claims to hold the original ... The best is to test and compare!
Interesting point: this cake is kept very well for several days, it is the ideal gift to bring back to your loved ones! 

The spit cake
another party cake, typical of the Pyrenees. Its particular appearance comes from the preparation mode, which requires several hours: the liquid dough (a kind of pancake dough) is poured on a conical mold which turns on the spit, above the fire. By solidifying, it forms a multitude of delicious little spikes with a taste of rum, or vanilla, or orange blossom, depending on the recipes.
There is even a brotherhood of the spitting cake in Arreau, which organizes the spit of the spit.

Pyrenees honeys
There are so many varieties that it is impossible to list them all: heather, linden, chestnut, acacia, thyme, and rare honeys, from micro-terroirs with exceptional biodiversity . Come and taste the organic honeys of the Hautes Pyrénées, prepared by beekeepers respectful of the environment and natural cycles of the bees .

The Berlingots of Cauterets
This Nantes specialty of small sweet and colorful candies, was imported into the thermal stations of the Pyrenees, where they allowed to reduce the pronounced taste of sulfur water. At the golden age of thermalism, Cauterets counted up to a dozen berlingot factories. Since then they have remained a beautiful tradition, a souvenir specialty declined today in dozens of flavors.

Cheeses

These are first, the essentials sheep  , goat or cow, or mixtures of milks, and their infinite variety of flavors and referrals.
The best known is undoubtedly the Tomme des Pyrénées (IGP) , cow cheese with pasteurized milk, with golden (natural) or black crust (covered with a layer of black paraffin).

Goat, fresh and gentle, or dry and stronger goat crottins depending on refining, nature or aromatic herbs.

The Ossau Iraty (PDO) , whole milk cheese from sheep with hazelnut notes.

Regional wines and craft beers

Madiran wine , tannic and full -bodied red wine that perfectly accompanies traditional dishes and cheeses in the country: garbure, red meats, sauce dishes, duck breast, duck confit or Pyrenees cheese.

The Pacherenc and the Jurançon, soft or dry white wines. The softness will excel with foie gras or sheep cheese, the dry will marry with fish, raw vegetables, light cold meats and white meats.

For beer enthusiasts: the craft beers of the Brasserie du Pays Toy and the Brasserie du Pays des Gaves produced locally, are served in bars and Cauterets , and available from the village retailers (CARREFOUR Mountain, Cave SEPET).

These two breweries are located about twenty minutes from the chalet. They have a store on site, with the possibility of visiting the brasserie (on RV).

To taste these delicious regional specialties, while enjoying a wonderful stay in the Hautes Pyrénées, do not hesitate to contact the La Source chalet !

In each village, each region, there are people who mark history.

Prosper Demontzey, undeniably, is of this caliber. By directing  the gigantic consolidation works of Mount which threatened to collapse on the thermal baths of Cauterets, at the end of the 19th century, Demontzey saved the economic future of the village.

By this blow of radiance and other sites of the same type, this engineer of genius was the precursor of the techniques of restoration of the land in the mountains.

1884, the future of the spa station in danger

From the 1820s, thermalism took off in the Pyrenees . Cauterets opened its first modern thermal baths to La Raillère in 1828 . The thermal baths of Cesar (1844), the thermal baths of Pauze-Vieux (1853) and the neo-onlymes (1879) followed. The thermal stations become a holiday resort for high society , and spa guests fill the palaces.

But in the spring of 1884, the future of the Raillère thermal baths suddenly darkened. For several days, large blocks of granite stand out from Mont Péguère , and come to hole the roof of establishments like cannonballs. Of course, spa guests flee ...

The steep slopes which overlook the thermal baths of the Raillère, made of limestone and granite, are indeed subject to frequent falls of stones and avalanches .  Natural instability aggravated by deforestation (for firewood) and regular ice samples in this area near the village.

Engineer Demontzey called to the mountain bedside

The engineer Prosper Demontzey , head of the general inspection of the restoration of mountain land (RTM). is urgently dispatched to examine the situation.

He recommends a simple principle remedy, but which requires enormous work: it is a question of stabilizing the terrain , by combining the reforestation and the creation of stored grassy lawns , on stands supported by huge stone walls. For reforestation, he recommends planting larches, non -endemic but very solid conifers.

Fortunately for Cauterets, since the laws of Napoleon III of July 1860 on mountain reforestations, and thanks to the taste of the Emperor for the Pyrenees, Demontzey has all the authority and the funds necessary to carry out his work.

He will also exhibit a model at the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1889. His project will have a strong impression, then earning him the visit of many celebrities, on the site.

A Herculean project

Like other major Pyrenean works at the end of the 19th century, such as the Napoleon bridge in Luz or the Pic du Midi de Bigorre , the consolidation of Mont Péguère is worthy of the works of Hercules!

The work begins in 1885. First of all, an access path is fitted out: it is no less than 78 laces (still numbered!) Which thus come to mesh on the southeast flank of Mont Péguère, supplemented by a shelter in stone for workers.

The Combe Storing Staked work began in 1886. The surrounding rock was used, carved on site and transported to the back of a man or by a small cable car fitted out by the RTM. Dry stone retaining walls are created, nursery bands are developed for reforestation and commitment.

The grassy cover is taken from the Cambasque slope : squares of herbs are thus cut and replanted in the north east valley. The beginnings of lawn transplantation!

This painful and slow work motivates in 1888 the installation of a mini railway. This, brought into spare parts and mounted on site, allows the circulation between the two slopes, of wagons carrying grass plates and blocks of stone.

This titanic project will last more than 10 years, until 1892, creating colossal walls, fed 7 km of Muletier path and 14 km of forest trails.

The Cauteresian scholar Alphonse Meillon will write about Prosper Demontzey:

“He pansed the injury of the mountain. There he made the blocks left that wanted to go away; Here, he "under mura" those who still held; Further on, he planted grass on sandy surfaces; Elsewhere, he built stone coverings ”.

Precursor of modern reforestation techniques, author of several treaties on the subject and renamed far beyond our borders, Demontzey was truly a benefactor for the thermal station of Cauterets. The hiking trail at the foot of Mont Péguère, and a stele on the edge of the forest near the Ceriset cascade, today honor its memory.

Mount Péguère and Raillère today

The buildings designed by Demontzey are still very present and still hold , even if during the 130 years that followed, it was necessary to continue them: it was first by concrete formwork, later by concrete injected under pressure, and Steel nets stretched on the wall upstream of the trace of the Raillère. Even today, the administration is still closely monitors this mountain!

Las, faced with the risk of persistent landslides, it was necessary to resolve to permanently close the thermal baths in 1997.
The building of 3,200 m2 was however preserved, witness to the thermal history of Cauterets and the Art Nouveau architecture. La Raillère also retains its small station, testimony to the old tramway.

In 2019, the Saint-Savin union commission sold the Russian artist thermes to the Russian artist Andrei Molodkin, already installed in Hautes-Pyrénées since 2014, in the former foundry of Maubourguet, which has become the place of experimental art "The Foundry ”.

For the same security reasons, since 2008 a municipal decree has prohibited hikers access to the Péguère pegue . This decree is still in force today. Too bad because, from up there, the 360 ​​° view is absolutely incredible! See the photos were taken before the ban, by Jean-Paul and by Mariano : from the top of the peak, we admire the entire Lac de Gaube valley to the north face of the vignemale!

Hopefully that one day, the Demontzey laces can be climbed again, to the delight of hikers!