Cauterets and the Pyrenees: 6 must-see spots to explore by van or motorhome

From high-altitude lakes and roaring waterfalls to picturesque villages, the Pyrenees offer breathtaking landscapes. Here are 6 magical places you simply can’t miss around Cauterets.

Cauterets, a spa and ski resort nestled in the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées, is the perfect gateway to the region’s natural and cultural treasures. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a lover of grand vistas or a history buff, this area is sure to captivate you. Travelling by van or motorhome, you can wind along scenic routes and stop at every turn to admire exceptional sites. Ready to hit the road? Here’s our pick of 6 unmissable spots to explore without restraint.

Pont d'Espagne

A legendary starting point for accessing the Pyrenees National Park, this site offers an unrivalled view of the surrounding waterfalls and peaks. A gentle walk leads to Lac de Gaube, a turquoise jewel framed by the Vignemale.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking Gaube Lake Cauterets Parking ★ 3.6 Large tarmac car park 5 minutes’ walk from Pont d’Espagne. Easy access, ideal for motorhomes. › Camping les Glères Campsite ★ 4.5 Quiet family-run campsite 5 km away, near the centre. Spacious pitches, rated 4.5/5. › Parking with mountain views Cauterets Parking ★ 5 Free high-altitude car park with panoramic views. 45-minute walk, flat and spacious ground. › Avenue de la Gare, Cauterets Motorhome area ★ 3.6 Town-centre aire 5 km away, full services. €12 per night, close to station and ski lifts. › Camping le Vignemale Campsite ★ 4 Mountain campsite by a river. Flat pitches, clean facilities, 6 km away. ›

Lac de Gaube

Reachable on foot from Pont d’Espagne, this glacial lake with crystal-clear waters is dominated by the peak of Vignemale. An idyllic setting for a picnic or a refreshing swim.

Where to sleep nearby

Small vehicles parking Cauterets Parking ★ 4.4 Wild setting in a nature reserve, with a stream and meadow. 5-minute drive, free for small vehicles. › Hiking parking Cauterets Parking ★ 3.8 Free roadside parking, near hiking trails. 6-minute drive, perfect for an overnight stop before the ascent. › Parking Gaube Lake Cauterets Parking ★ 3.6 Large tarmac car park, €8 per day to access the lake. 30-minute walk, plenty of motorhome spaces. › Old thermal baths parking Cauterets Parking ★ 3 Flat, tarmac car park, starting point for waterfalls and Pont d’Espagne. 6-minute drive, no services but free. › Daytime parking Cauterets Parking ★ 2.6 Paid car park (€5.50-8 per day) for Pont d’Espagne and Lac de Gaube. 32-minute walk, capacity for 80-100 vehicles. ›

Cirque de Gavarnie

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this horseshoe-shaped natural amphitheatre is one of the largest in Europe. Its sheer cliffs and 423-metre waterfall make for a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Where to sleep nearby

D923, Gavarnie Motorhome area ★ 4 Gravel aire 5 km from the village, ideal starting point for the Cirque. €10 per night, quiet and well-rated (4/5). › Parking above the road Gavarnie-Gèdre Parking ★ 4.9 Wild car park with spectacular views of the Cirque. Free, 6-minute drive, very peaceful (4.9/5). › Camping Bergerie Campsite ★ 3.9 Family-run riverside campsite, max 10 pitches. Booking essential, natural atmosphere. › Ski station parking Gavarnie Parking ★ 4.3 Large flat car park at 1,840 m, stunning views. Free, quiet in low season (4.3/5). › Gavarnie view parking Gavarnie Parking ★ 4.6 Wild car park at the entrance to the Cirque, winding road. Free, 6-minute drive, secluded setting (4.6/5). ›

Grotte de Médous

Carved by water over millennia, this spectacular cave is home to stunning formations and vast chambers. A guided tour reveals its mysteries and fascinating geological history.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping l'Arriou Campsite ★ 4.9 Exceptional natural setting, heated pool and toilet facilities. 25-minute walk, absolute tranquillity. › Recycling center parking by river Campan Parking ★ 4.3 Free car park at the foot of a cliff, by a river. 8-minute drive, shaded and peaceful. › Adour campsite Campsite ★ 4.7 4-star family campsite, indoor pool and jacuzzi. 14-minute walk, by the River Adour. › Parking Col des Palomières Lies Parking ★ 4.4 Grassy plateau at 730 m, panoramic views. 39-minute walk, spectacular sunsets. › Camping le Monloo Campsite ★ 4.3 Artificial lagoon and beach, heated pool. 5-minute drive, warm welcome. ›

Col du Tourmalet

This iconic mountain pass, often tackled by Tour de France cyclists, offers panoramic views of the valleys and Pyrenean peaks. A must for lovers of dramatic landscapes and winding roads.

Where to sleep nearby

Shepherd’s hut parking Col du Tourmalet Barèges Parking ★ 4.7 Spectacular Pyrenean views, 9-minute walk. Guaranteed peace in a pastoral zone. › Camping Caravaning Municipal Campsite ★ 4.1 By a lake, low prices (€13-23). Vehicle access (6-minute drive). › Flat parking space by stream Barèges Parking ★ 4.8 Large flat area, views of Pic du Midi. 14-minute walk. › Ski station parking Barèges Parking ★ 4.4 Hiking trail start, quiet overnight stay at 1,900 m. 16-minute walk. › Camping à la ferme — Bagnères-de-Bigorre Campsite ★ 4.9 Car park at 2,156 m, grand landscapes. Permit required, 5-minute walk. ›

Château fort de Lourdes

Perched on a rock, this medieval fortress overlooks the town of Lourdes and now houses a Pyrenean museum. Its ramparts provide a stunning view of the pilgrimage city and the surrounding mountains.

Where to sleep nearby

Lourdes municipal pool parking Parking ★ 4.4 Free car park 10 minutes’ walk from the centre, access to showers (€4) and pool (€2). Peaceful despite the urban proximity. › Camping Le Vieux Berger Campsite ★ 5 5-star campsite 19 minutes’ walk away, 3 shaded hectares. Renovated facilities, ideal for visiting Lourdes. › Flat parking by quiet road Adé Parking ★ 4.8 Free mountain car park (1 space), picnic table. Clear views, 5-minute drive. › Anousta Campsite ★ 4.7 Farm campsite 5 km away, pool (€2) and guest table. Full services, Pyrenean setting. › Large viewpoint parking Cheust Parking ★ 4.3 Large free village car park, pétanque court and picnic table. Exceptional sunsets, 8-minute drive. ›

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