The snowiest resorts in the Pyrenees

The days are getting shorter, the cold is setting in and the snow is already starting to show its face. Aren't we going skiing in the Pyrenees ? Yes, but... Which resort has the most snow ? Before answering this question, here are some criteria to best predict the snow cover of the resorts. Altitude is the most important criterion, but it is not the only one to take into account. You also need to observe the wind, the exposure and the nature of the terrain (rocky or earthy). Also pay attention to microclimates which can cause the snow cover to vary considerably from one resort to another. Since you are probably not a geologist, we have prepared a short guide to the best resorts in the Pyrenees.

Opening photo © Rainer-bleek / unsplash

The snowiest resorts in the Pyrenees: the must-sees

• Located in the Hautes-Pyrénées, on the slopes of the famous Pic du Midi de Bigorre, which peaks at an altitude of 2,876 m, the Grand Tourmalet resort can boast of having the largest ski area in the French Pyrenees, ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 m above sea level. Here, two villages, two atmospheres: authentic Barèges and more modern La Mongie. They offer 2-in-1 holidays to their 600,000 or so visitors per year. The Grand Tourmalet is also the temple of freeride and cross-country skiing. It has more than 100 kilometers of track dedicated to this discipline! Price-wise, expect to pay €52 for a day pass and €364 for a week (2025 price).

• Also very popular with the French, the Saint-Lary-Soulan resort offers nearly 100 kilometers of slopes ranging from 1,700 to 2,515 m above sea level, in the heart of the breathtaking landscapes of the Hautes-Pyrénées. The area is spread over 3 levels: Saint-Lary 1700 (Pla d'Adet), Saint-Lary 1900 (Espiaube) and Saint-Lary 2400 (Vallon du Portet). This resort is also very committed to ecology. It has also obtained the Qualité Environnement label for its efforts!

Photo © andrea-windolph--unsplash

The snowiest resorts in the Pyrenees: on a human scale

• In addition to being the highest resort in the Pyrenees (2,600 meters at its summit), Piau Engaly has quite exceptional natural snow cover thanks to its geographical location sheltering it from wind and thaws. In the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées department, this resort offers a day pass for €43 (2025 price).

• Straddling the departments of Hautes-Pyrénées and Haute-Garonne, the Peyragudes resort offers 60 kilometres of slopes in an area located between 1,610 and 2,261 metres above sea level, spread over two slopes : Agudes and Peyresourde. Good news: most of its slopes are suitable for beginners ! Another undeniable asset of the resort: it offers ultra-modern equipment and some of the fastest ski lifts ! In terms of prices, the resort offers a day pass for €48 (2025 price).

• Ax 3 Domaines, in Ariège, extends over three areas : Bonascre, from 1400 to 2000 meters above sea level, Le Saquet from 1800 to 2300 meters above sea level and Les Campels, from 1500 to 2400 meters above sea level. They give the resort a large snow-covered playground all season long, accessible at a price of €46.50 per day (2025 price)!

Photo © damian-mccoig / unsplash

The snowiest resorts in the Pyrenees: the authentic ones

• At the end of the season, head to Cauterets. It is certainly the snowiest resort in the Pyrenees, as 60% of the ski area is above 2,000 meters above sea level. There are many slopes there facing north ! Who said you couldn't ski in spring ? Also enjoy the thermal waters of the charming village and its Nordic activities (cross-country skiing , snowshoeing or even sledding, etc.). €43 for the day pass (2025 price).

• Just 1h30 from Toulouse, in the Haute-Garonne department, the Luchon-Superbagnères resort is less known to the general public, and therefore quieter ! It's still possible to hurtle down the slopes without slaloming between other skiers, and all at a very reasonable price : €35 for a day pass ! (2025 price)

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Article written by Léa Dürr for the Toulouse Pyrénées Guide