Top 10 things to do in Tarbes

Capital of Bigorre, the city of Tarbes is ideally located, close to the Pyrenees National Park, ski resorts, the Spanish border and the Atlantic coast. Between Pau and Lannemezan, this lively and sporty city attracts many tourists each year with its relaxed lifestyle and the vast green spaces of the region. This year, it's your turn to escape. We take you with pleasure to discover the charming Tarbes, its history and its activities.

Opening photo: AdobeStock / Staoist520

1- Visit the town of Tarbes

Let's go for a walk in the historic heart of the city of Tarbes, a complete and fascinating visit organized by the tourist office. On a 4 km course, discover the richness of the heritage through 10 religious, architectural and historical sites. Follow the nails and cross the Cour Reffye, admire the Théâtre des Actualités or the birthplace of Marshal Foch born in 1851.

2- The Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-la-Sède in Tarbes

When the guided tour is over, stroll through the alleys to get to the Notre-Dame-de-la-Sède Cathedral, the oldest monument in the city of Tarbes in the historic district. Built on a Gallo-Roman site in the 12th century in a Romanesque style, it evolved over time and underwent repairs and modifications at all times, such as the Gothic nerve of the 14th century or the large Baroque marble canopy of the 18th century.

3- The Massey Museum in Tarbes

Go up along rue Massey to access the Museum which bears the same name, completely renovated to open its doors again in 2012. Two levels allow you to discover two attractive collections, in the former residence of the famous botanist Placide Massey. The international collection of the Hussars is unique in the world , with more than 15,000 objects from the military epics of the Hussars. The collection of the Museum of Fine Arts began in the 19th century with Achille Jubinal, an art enthusiast. Admire masterpieces from the Italian, Dutch and Flemish schools during a guided tour, where mythology and religious arts are highlighted.

4- The Tarbes Carmel Exhibition Space

We go around the park to go down the street to the Carmel exhibition, a must in the city of Tarbes. Since 1988, the old chapel of Carmel has exhibited various works of art by well-known and local artists who have worked around a theme. Guided tours, workshops for young and old and permanent exhibitions, the Carmel, founded in 1870, is an institution not to be missed in the town of Tarbes.

5- Haras de Tarbes

We move slightly away from the city center to meet the magnificent horses of Haras de Tarbes, a site classified as a historic monument. A veritable natural park in the heart of the city, it was created in 1806 by Napoleon to reproduce mounts for the cavalry. From the Tarbais horse breed was born that of the Anglo-Arab, a magnificent horse excellent for sport. On an area of 8 hectares, visit a living museum, stroll through the sumptuous garden and admire the equestrian installations of Empire architecture.

6- Massey's Garden at Tarbes

A little look back on our route, we go back to the Jardin de Massey, the favorite garden of the Tarbais. Created in the 19th century on an area of 11 hectares, it is a hidden gem in the heart of the city. Open all year round, it is magnificent in every season with two lakes, an incredible variety of tree species, majestic paths and flower beds. Picnic on an area in the undergrowth while the children have fun on the playground, before continuing your getaway in the heart of nature.

7- The market in Tarbes

We hit the road again and take advantage of the morning to do our shopping. Every Thursday, the city of Tarbes comes alive with the installation of the market place Marcadieu and place du Foirail. Largest gathering of producers in the Hautes-Pyrénées, it is an opportunity to meet and buy fresh and local products. The stalls under the Brauhauban halls are also very popular every morning with a complete and quality offer, in a central part and the producers' area.

8- Tarbes Laloubere Racecourse

At the exit of the city, close to the golf of Tarbes, one finds the horses on the hippodrome Laloubère. Created in 1808, it has a unique setting facing the Pyrenees chain. Renovated in 2001, mounts and riders can now shine on one of the last grass tracks in France, 1800 meters long with a finish line of 450 meters. Whether you are a novice or a connoisseur, the panorama is worth the detour.

9- The CaminAdour in Tarbes

It's your turn to sweat (a little) on the caminAdour, an 11.5 km path laid out on the banks of the river between Bours and Soues. Punctuated with picnic areas and playgrounds, it is ideal for getting away from it all in the shade of tall trees. Discover the fauna and flora during a 2h50 walk, or prefer cycling on the Trait Vert de Tarbes. With 10 loops, there are 140 km of circuits that allow you to reach around fifteen towns around Tarbes. To your sneakers and your pedals, let's go for the ride.

10- The Paul Boyrie Nautical Center in Tarbes

Finally, we take you to cool off at the Paul Boyrie nautical center in Tarbes, a fun area for young and old with an Olympic pool, an outdoor pool, play areas for children and large relaxation areas. Dive into the clear waters of the Tarbes swimming pool and relax, the visit is complete.

The pretty town of Tarbes has no more secrets for you. Take your time to appreciate each structure and monument of this flowery and attractive commune, and don't forget to taste the famous Tarbais bean.

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