Ski the Pyrenees in Cauterets, France

January 8th, 2007, by Mary Winston Nicklin

Ski the Pyrenees in Cauterets, France

Fringed by the tall, snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees, the French village of Cauterets is a picturesque resort destination, famed for its seasonal recreational activities. In the winter, Cauterets is almost always shrouded in a thick blanket of snow, and entices skiers and snowboarders of all levels to hit the slopes carved from the surrounding mountains. This year’s scant snowfall has compelled most French ski resorts in the Pyrenees to close– with the exception of Cauterets, of course. The town’s proximity to some of the best hiking trails in France (the National Park of the Pyrenees straddles the Franco-Spanish border and boasts a wealth of natural beauty) ensures plenty of summertime visitors as well. After a day on the slopes, relax fatigued muscles in Les Thermes, the Roman style bath complex fed by hot springs. (The naturally-warm water may reek of rotten eggs, but the jet pools and showers are divine.) Sip an aperitif at one of many cozy bars or hit the casino, located near the river which flows through the town. At the small covered market, foodies drool over perfect wedges of local cheese, homemade blueberry torte, and seasoned charcuterie. Note: most shops are only open in the morning and evening hours.

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Filed under: Romantic Travel, Travel with Kids, Food and Wine, Luxury Spas, Europe, The Practical Traveler, Luxury Ski Resorts

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