Alpine skiing in Cauterets, exceptional snow conditions and setting

The Lys alpine ski area, accessible by gondola from the center of Cauterets, boasts 20 slopes for all levels, ranging from 1730 to 2450 meters in altitude.

The Cirque du Lys benefits from exceptional natural snow cover, generally allowing skiing until mid-April.

And what about the setting? Truly high-mountain!

To make the most of it, don't forget your piste map, your cameras, and your sunscreen!

Who said "small"?

With 40 km of marked trails, Cauterets is by no means a "small" winter sports resort: the slopes and facilities are top-notch , and the scenery is magnificent!

Beginners will find 4 green runs at the bottom of the resort, and the rest of the area will allow more experienced skiers to have a great time.

Intermediate skiers will be best served. The long blue and red runs make up the bulk of the area, with some nice variations in the "Crêtes" and "Brèche" chairlift sectors.

For the most experienced skiers , the resort offers fewer slopes but very steep slopes and excellent snow quality, especially under the "grand Barbat" chairlift (2 black runs and freestyle area) or the red runs of the "Touyarolles" chairlift.

Winter skiing, spring skiing

Cauterets' other major advantage is its exceptional snow cover linked to the area's geographical location.

Indeed, the Cirque du Lys is located in a narrowing of the valley, which concentrates air masses, trapping them against the Lys massif. This phenomenon is clearly visible in this photo.
That's why snowfall is frequent and intense and it's not uncommon to wake up one morning to over 50 cm of powder!

Furthermore, thanks to its north and northwest exposure, the area is also protected from the sun, promoting the formation of a thick snowpack – up to 4m in high season – and of good quality until April.

This is why Cauterets regularly ranks in the top 10 of the snowiest French resorts , competing with Alpine resorts.

The Cauterets resort is therefore often the first resort to open, but also and especially the last to close , allowing spring skiing to be practiced in excellent conditions.

Sunshine, mild temperatures, and all this with excellent snow – and often fewer people than in winter…

Practical info

Numerous services enhance the resort: freestyle park, mountain bars and restaurants, beginner areas, tobogganing area, mini-club and daycare… Please note, dogs are not allowed on the premises.

The mini-club "Billes de Lune" welcomes children aged 3 to 12, at the arrival station of the Cirque du Lys.

Equipment rental in the village: Starski store is a partner of Chalet La Source.

Access by gondola lift from the village (12-minute ride); the gondola lift is not recommended for children under 18 months.

So, why not a lovely ski holiday in Cauterets, at Chalet La Source ?