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Natural attractions

Station de ski Gavarnie-Gèdre

4.6 · 815 reviews
Rugged, alpine, and expansive
Station de ski Gavarnie-Gèdre, Station de ski Les Espécières, 65120 Gavarnie-Gèdre, France
Interesting facts
1

The ski area offers a direct view of the Cirque de Gavarnie, a massive glacial amphitheater with walls reaching 1,500 meters high.

2

The resort is part of the Parc National des Pyrénées, requiring strict adherence to environmental protection zones.

3

The base of the ski area is located in the Les Espécières plateau, accessible via a mountain road from the village of Gèdre.

4

The Brèche de Roland, a natural 40-meter wide gap in the cliffs, is accessible from this zone for advanced mountaineers.

5

The resort maintains a dedicated slope for 'Le Pic Blanc,' which provides a vertical drop offering panoramic views of the Spanish border.

Overview

Station de ski Gavarnie-Gèdre is a high-altitude ski resort situated at the foot of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cirque de Gavarnie in the French Pyrenees. The resort operates primarily in the Les Espécières sector at an altitude ranging from 1,850 to 2,400 meters. It provides 27 kilometers of downhill ski slopes catering to varying skill levels, including a specialized area for beginners. During the winter season, it offers access to extensive backcountry skiing routes and Nordic ski circuits. In the summer months, the site transforms into a base for mountain hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. The resort is characterized by its proximity to the Gavarnie Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Europe. Infrastructure includes a snow-making system covering the main slopes to ensure coverage during the winter months. The location serves as an entry point for high-mountain trekking trails toward the Brèche de Roland.

Photo spot

The ridgeline at the top of the Serre chairlift looking south toward the Cirque de Gavarnie.

Insider tips

Check local snow reports and weather forecasts specifically for the Les Espécières plateau before departure, as conditions change rapidly.

Ensure your vehicle is equipped with snow chains or winter tires, as mandatory mountain road regulations apply during the winter season.

Pack binoculars to observe the diverse Pyrenean wildlife, such as bearded vultures and marmots, which are active in the area.

What to avoid

Attempting to reach the high-altitude trails without appropriate technical mountain gear or adequate experience during the shoulder seasons.

Good to know

Operates as a ski resort from December to April; transitions to a hiking and outdoor activity base from June to September; closed during mid-spring and late autumn for maintenance.

Etiquette

Respect the 'Leave No Trace' policy enforced within the national park boundaries.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
Full day (6-8 hours)
Best time to visit
Winter months for skiing; late June through September for hiking and alpine vistas.
Address
Station de ski Gavarnie-Gèdre, Station de ski Les Espécières, 65120 Gavarnie-Gèdre, France
42.729, -0.031
Get directions
Details
Skiable Area27 kilometers of downhill slopes
Elevation Range1,850m to 2,400m

Frequently asked

Plan for about Full day (6-8 hours) to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Winter months for skiing; late June through September for hiking and alpine vistas..

The ridgeline at the top of the Serre chairlift looking south toward the Cirque de Gavarnie.

Close by you'll find Cirque de Gavarnie, Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, La Brèche de Roland.