Luz Saint Sauveur

Bowling

Bowling Le Txoko, 17 Avenue Bareges | Esquièze Sère, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33562923557
The ten pin bowling alley has 4 lanes at your disposal and is a great way to relax and have fun with friends and family.

Snowtubing

Why not try snowtubing this winter? Experience the thrill as you hurtle down the slopes, brace yourself for new sensation filled with fun and laughter

Children’s carousel

Tel: +33(0)668 599565
Open all year round, the carousel in the centre of town is a favourite of all children.

Babysitting

A list of babysitters, available for day or evening child minding, is provided on the luz.org website. This list of babysitters is also available at the Tourist Office. http://www.luz.org/en/kids/babysitting.html

J Club

J Club. Maison Gradet Poque, Avenue Saint Sauveur. Luz Saint Sauveur, Tel: +33 (0)562429855/ (0)645194622. Email: jclub.association@luz.org
The J Club and Leisure Centre organises a range of fun activities for the children from the age of 3 to 12 years old. Activities are specially developed to ensure the children retain a certain independence and include manual and group activities along with music workshops. The club is run by a dynamic and qualified team of youth workers. Bookings must be made by 7pm the night before and bookings not cancelled before this time will be charged.
Opening times:  Monday – Friday, 8.30am to 6.30pm.

Luz offers a wide range of additional winter activities: the Luzea Spa and Well-being Centre, library and multi-media centre, ice rink at Gèdre, indoor tennis and a gym in the leisure centre not to mention a selection of enjoyable strolls to discover Luz and the beautiful surrounding area.

Luzea Spa and Well-being Centre

Thermal spas are typical of most Pyrenean ski resorts and are a must try experiences. Open all year, the Luzea Spa and Well-being Centre offers a range of treatments using its natural spa water which is rich in sulphur and rare gases. The spa water, with a natural temperature of 32 degrees, is a great place to relax and the facilities include swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam and heated marble benches. The spa also offers scrubs and massages from around the world. Signature treatments include Chocolate massages hot rocks, wraps, Oriental scrubs and Chi Yang. A great place to unwind after a hard day on the slopes!

Maison Vallee Events & Exhibition Centre

Maison Vallee, 24 Place Saint Clement, Luz St Sauveur, Tel: +33562923838.
The Maison Vallee is there to ensure that you have fun in Luz saint Sauveur. The buildings superb architecture and its rooms inside will seduce you as much as the shows and exhibitions that are staged here. Tucked away in the eaves of this spectacular building that dates from the time of the Knights Templar, the National Park house will reveal the riches of the Pyrenees Mountains.
There is also a Cybercafé, a multimedia library and library tucked away in the Centre and cinema and concerts take place throughout the year.

Nordic Skiing Track
This Nordic activity which increases the heartbeat and leads to good aerobic exercise is available in Luz and free for all.

Snowshoe walking
Snowshoe walking is a wonderful way to enjoy the mountains in the winter. A great activity for all thefamily it's a great way to discover the Pyrenean wildlife, hidden lakes and learn about the mountains at your own pace. Excursions include: Discovery of the Pyrenean wild life, Igloo building, Nocturnal walk with meal, Overnight walks with night in a mountain refuge, Discovery of the mountain lakes.

Randos Raquettes with Bernard Josué
21 rue des Moulins
65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur
T : +33 (0)5 62 92 84 05
b.josue@wanadoo.fr
http://pyrene-rando.com

Rando Raquettes with Luz Aventure
6 route de Barèges
65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur
T : +33 (0)5 62 92 33 47
F : +33 (0)5 62 92 33 48

Walks
The Chateau Sainte Marie Walk
This walk enables you to see the ruins of the imposing castle of Sainte-Marie and enjoy one of the best viewpoints overlooking the village of Luz from its ramparts.

Napoleon's Walk
This is a very easy walk allowing you to discover the typical architecture of the nineteenth century buildings in Luz as well as the local amenities, ie climbing wall, adventure playpark and tennis courts.

The Waterfalls Walk
This is a water walk, You Will Throughout the ascent cross waterfalls, gushing in the springtime, the walk ends at the Hountalade thermal water source.

Bowling
Bowling Le Txoko, 17 Avenue Bareges | Esquièze Sère, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33562923557
The ten pin bowling alley has 4 lanes at your disposal and is a great way to relax and have fun with friends and family. Large groups wanting to bowl are advised to contact the bowling alley directly to reserve lanes. Rates: €6* (*Price per person per game, shoe rental included) There are also video games available in the bowling alley. There is also a bar and restaurant on site (see “Restaurants” and “Bars” section)

Cinema
Cinema at the Maison de la Vallee (Cultural Centre), 24 Place Saint Clement, Luz St Sauveur, Tel: +33562923838.

Evening showings at the Maison de la Vallee are every Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday either at 5 or 9pm.

For listings please check: http://maisondelavallee.org

Tennis

Tourist Office, Place du 8 Mai, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 923030. www.luz.org/

You can knock around the little yellow ball all year long here in Luz Saint Sauveur as there is an indoor court. Reservations can be made at the Tourist office.

Climbing wall
Located in the “Quartier thermal” this climbing wall is free of charge and has 8 climbing routes.

The Food in Luz Saint Sauveur

Mountain Restaurants
The ski area of Luz Ardiden has 3 mountain restaurants for you to choose from. From quick snacks for piste's friends to relaxed dining with great views for the tortoises amongst us.

Restaurant d’Aulian
Bottom of the snow basin near the beginner area at Aulian 1700. Tel: +33(0)562 923262
Ideally located at the bottom of the snow basin near the beginner area at Aulian 1700, so it is perfect for keeping your eye on those learning to ski while you relax with a meal, a drink or both.

Repas Minute
Located next to Aulian Restaurant
Fast food mountain style. For those who don't want to miss a minute on the slopes, this is the place to go. Serving cold sandwiches, burgers fries, donuts, waffles ... you will be fuelled and ready to go in no time at all!

Restaurant 'Les Bergères'
Bottom of the Bergère drag lift. Tel: +33(0)562 929752
Located in the Béderet sector and accessed via the Myrtilles blue run, from the restaurant terrace you can admire the Pic du Midi Observatory from the comfort of your lounger and enjoy an exceptional panorama! Set menus are available and bookings can be made in advance for large families and groups of friends alike.

Restaurants
The town has a great selection of restaurants showcasing many different cuisines – from Pizzerias and Spanish themed burgers to traditional Local lamb – said to be some of the best lamb in France.

Pizzéria Chez Christine
3 Rue Ossun Prolongee, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel:  +33(0)562 928681
A popular restaurant with locals and tourists alike due to the friendly and helpful staff and great food that they serve up here. The cuisine is home-style local French cooking (nothing fancy) done exceptionally well at a very reasonable price. The restaurant also serves pizza and pasta dishes which are also very popular. Be sure to book in advance as this place is always busy. If you can't get a table you can still order a pizza to take away!

Le Bowling Restaurant/bar
Bowling Le Txoko, 17 Avenue Bareges, Esquièze Sère, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33(0)562 923557
The restaurant is located in the bowling alley and can hold up to 200 diners. There are 3 course set menus (“Formule TXOKO”) at lunch times from Monday to Friday which come in at ca. €13 and they also have a Kids corner for under 12 year olds. Kids can dine on burger and chips and an ice cream sundae for ca. €6.50 and on Friday evening it is 'Mussels and Chips' night. (ca €12)  Otherwise you will generally find them serving up items from the grill after 10pm.

Bodéga La Tasca
17 Place St Clement, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33(0)562 929622, www.latasca-luz.com/
A great little restaurant, run by an English couple, with a good ambience and a varied menu to cater for most tastes. All the food is made from local produce and is absolutely delicious. The intimate dining area provides a cosy and warm atmosphere and is ideal for couples and families. The bar area is great for those looking for an aprés ski or aperitif before heading out for the night. Be sure to try the regional favourite of Garbure or one of the gourmet burgers and make sure you book to ensure a table.

L'auberge de Viella
65120 Viella , Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33(0)562 928514
A lovely, warm and welcoming restaurant just a few kilometres from Luz in the small village of Viella serving local gourmet cuisine. The regional menu is a must try - the lamb is widely regarded as some of the best in the area. And if you're feeling naughty why not try one of the delicious homemade desserts?

Auberge Les Cascades
17, rue Saint-Barbe, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tél: +33 (0)562 928585. Mobile: +33 (0)680 071568
A simple and straight forward establishment that serves rich and simple food in a set menu format. Good friendly service with a wonderful terrace.

La Terrasse
21, Place du 8 Mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33(0)562 928552
Simple self service restaurant with a good selection of unfussy food at very reasonable prices.

Creperie Mia Moure
7 rue d'Ossun, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33(0)562 944082, ttps://www.facebook.com/CreperieMiaMoure
Tiny Creperie with a warm and pleasant atmosphere and great hospitality serving hearty pancakes, sweet treats and savoury snacks at reasonable prices. They also serve local cider! Service can suffer when the place is busy but this does not detract from this warm and fun establishment.

Restaurant Ardiden
20, Av. De L'impératrice Eugénie, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33(0)562 928180. Email: ardiden@wanadoo.fr
Given the title of “Restaurant de France” and located within the Hotel Ardiden, this traditional restaurant allows you to savour the local and gourmet cuisine.

Restaurant Bon Accueil
45 Avenue de l'Impératrice Eugénie, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33(0)562 928039.
Gourmet cuisine

Auberge Les Eaux Vives
64 Avenue Saint Sauveur, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33(0)562 928950.
Restaurant located 15 mins walk from town centre serving mountain classics such as fondue, raclette, garbure and tartiflette.

Restaurant Le Panoramic
30, Av. De L'impératrice Eugénie, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928014. www.hotel-panoramic-luz.com/en/restaurant.php. Email: panoramic.hotel@wanadoo.fr
Located across the road from the hotel of the same name, is the air conditioned restaurant with its terrace overlooking the “Gave de Pau” river (seating for up to 20 people). During the winter the warm chimney in the salon/bar serves up crepes waffles and ice cream. Specialities include “Garbure” (local meat and vegetable broth). Other warm favourites are Trout, Duck breast with raspberries, local "Barèges-Gavarnie" stew and Preserved meats. For desert, French options include Cherry "Basque cake", French-style apple tart, chocolate fondant and chocolate fondue. Kids menu starts at ca. €8 and there is a budget/classic or panorama menu on offer.

Restaurant- Crêperie Les Templiers
6 place de la Comport, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 92 8152. www.hotellestempliers.com/pages/creperie_gb.html
Located in the hotel of the same name, this restaurant cum Crêperie serves up a large selection of Galettes (buckwheat savoury crepes) and sweet crepes made with organic flour. They also offer an à la carte winter menu, a daily set three course menu and a range of regional dishes.

Pizzéria Le Napoli
Place du 8 Mai 1945, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33 (0)562 327972.
Friendly little café serving up pizzas, salads, sandwiches and ice creams. Service with a smile and good value for money.

Bars

Luz saint Sauveur has quite a lively evening scene ranging from intimate bars and cafes in small squares and many of them organise concerts throughout the season. There is even a lively Cuban style bar dedicated to Che Guevara.

Le Bowling Bar
Bowling Le Txoko, 17 Avenue Bareges, Esquièze Sère, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33 (0)562 923557
The bowling alley has its own onsite restaurant and evening bar. So you can enjoy and game of bowling and a few drinks after a good serving of food. (See restaurant section for more info)

Bar Les Cascades
17, rue Saint-Barbe, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tél: +33 (0)562 928585. Mobile: +33 (0)680 071568
Ricou the owner will be happy to welcome you to dinner where you can taste the home-made “Garbure” (traditional local stew) or just have a drink in a friendly atmosphere. This local restaurant bar is located just out of town – a 15 minute walk from the centre.

Le Centre
8 rue d’Ossun, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tél: +33 (0)562 928215
Le bar du Centre is located right in the centre of town and has a beautiful terrace with Wi-Fi access. The décor is purely Spanish and under the watchful eye of Che Guevara you can enjoy your Mojito or strong black coffee. This lively bar also shows live football games and concerts and if you are in need of a snack – the pizzas come recommended.

Bar la Taverne
Place du 8 Mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tél: +33 (0)562 929038
The Taverne bar has an Irish feel to it and is perfectly located on the main square near the Tourist office. The pretty terrace looks out onto the nearby peaks topped with snow in the winter months. During the ski season, it is a busy haunt of those looking for “Après- ski” whilst in summer cyclists and motor-bikers feel at home here. The large selection of beers makes it a beer lover’s choice. Wi-Fi available.

Bar Les Cimes
Hotel Les Cimes, 3 Place du Marché. 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tél. +33 (0)562 928203. Tél: +33 (0)607 039828.
This convivial family run hotel has a small bar with a more intimate feel to it. Located in the centre of town, it is just a stone’s throw from the “Templier’s church”.

L'Europe
Av St Sauveur, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tél: +33 (0)62 929566
This bar, located at the crossroads of the road to Barège and the road to Gavarnie is a natural meeting point for locals in the valley and tourists alike.  As well as the live football matches on offer it also doubles as a newsagent.

Bar la Terrasse
21, Place du 8 Mai, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33 (0)562 928552
This bar cum café welcomes you onto its sunny terrace day and night and is ideally situated next door to the Tourist office and has Wi-Fi access. A favourite Après-ski location after alighting the ski bus returning from the slopes or for cyclists looking for a caffeine boost on that long ride through the valley. 

La Tasca
17 Place St Clement, 65120 Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel: +33 (0)562 929622, http://www.latasca-luz.com/
Nina and Paul, an English couple and adopted Pyreneans welcome you to their bar-restaurant where you can sit back and relax with a drink at the bar. Located right in the heart of the town, the front terrace looks onto Place St Clément, the small square in front whilst the back terrace is enclosed and a real sun-trap. A lively bar in the evenings with live football matches on the TV and some live concerts.

Le Coco Loco Nightclub
Route De Gavarnie, 65120, Luz-Saint-Sauveur, Tel:  +33 (0)562 929684. Mobile: +33(0)678 128448
The nightclub is open every evening during school holidays and weekends from 23.00 – 04.00 for your fix of late night venues.

Road

Driving distance from Calais: 1142km / 710miles, 10hrs 15mins
Driving distance from Le Havre: 960km / 597miles, 8hrs 35mins
Driving distance from Caen: 880km / 545miles, 7hrs 55mins
Driving distance from Cherbourg: 968km / 602miles, 8hrs 45mins
Driving distance from Saint Malo: 806km / 501miles, 7hrs 30mins
Driving distance from Bilbao: 324km / 201miles, 3hrs 20mins
Driving distance from Santander: 420km / 261miles, 4hrs 20mins

Air

International Airport Tarbes – Lourdes
Tel: +33(0)562 329222. Website: http://www.tlp.aeroport.fr/
Distance to Luz Saint Sauveur: 45km / 28 miles, approx. 43mins
Air France operates flights from Paris-Orly. 3 flights daily from Monday to Friday, 2 flights on weekends.
Ryanair operates 2 weekly flights from London Stansted on Monday and Friday.

Tarbes Lourdes Airport shuttle Bus transfer
Shuttle buses run from Tarbes-Lourdes Airport to Luz Saint Sauveur direct. If you are travelling from Stansted airport or Paris Orly on the Ryanair flight to Tarbes-Lourdes Airport on Friday or Tuesday. From 5 December to 17 April you can reserve your ticket for a single or return journey or purchase at the information desk at the airport on the arrivals level.  In resort, payments can be made on the bus to the driver in cash. Be aware that places are limited so a reservation is advisable. If no reservations are made for the shuttle – it may not run.

Reservations: Email: bus-shuttle@tlp.aeroport.fr. Tel +33(0)562 329222
Pick up /Drop off point: Tourist Office
Price: Single/15€; Return/30€. 

Departures days: Mondays and Fridays (Ryanair) Daily (Paris Orly)
Departure Tarbes-Lourdes Airport: TBA - Arrival Luz Saint Sauveur: TBA
Depart Luz Saint Sauveur: TBA- Arrival Airport: TBA

International Airport Pau – Pyrenees
Tel: +33(0)559 333300. Website: http://www.pau.aeroport.fr/
Distance to Luz Saint Sauveur: 83km / 52 miles, approx. 1hr 10mins
Air France operates flights from Paris-Orly. 10 weekly flights from Sunday – Friday, 2 flights on Saturday.
Air France operates flights from Paris-Charles de Gaulle.  10 weekly flights from Sunday – Friday, 3 flights on Saturday.

International Airport Toulouse - Blagnac
Tel: +33(0)561 424441. Website: http://www.toulouse.aeroport.fr/
Distance to Luz Saint Sauveur: 208km / 129 miles, approx. 2hrs 10mins
Easyjet operates flights from London Gatwick. 2 flights (Sunday, Monday, Thursday Friday) 1 flight (Wednesday, Tuesday, Saturday)
Easyjet operates 3 weekly flights from Bristol on Sunday, Monday & Friday and daily flights during holiday periods.
British Airways operates flights from London Heathrow. 2 flights (Wednesday – Friday), 3 flights (Sunday – Tuesday), 1 flight (Saturdays).

International Airport Biarritz
Tel: +33(0)559 438383. Website: http://www.biarritz.aeroport.fr/
Distance to Luz Saint Sauveur: 186km / 116 miles, approx. 2hrs 5mins
Ryanair operates 3 weekly flights from London Stansted on Wednesday, Friday & Sunday.

International Airport Carcassonne
Tel: +33(0)468 719646. Website: www.aeroport-carcassonne.com.
Distance to Luz Saint Sauveur: 289km / 180 miles, approx. 2hrs 50mins
Ryanair operates 3 weekly flights from London Stansted on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday.
Ryanair operates 2 weekly flights from Liverpool John Lennon airport on Tuesday & Saturday.

Private taxi transfers from airports to Luz Saint Sauveur are pre-bookable via Pyrenees Collection. See our Airport Transfer page for more information.

Rail

Voyages SNCF Reservation number: 0844 848 5848
Opening Times: Monday to Friday 09:00-19:00 and Saturday 09:00-18:00

Toulouse Matabiau – Via Lourdes & Pierrefittes – Luz Saint Sauveur: 4hrs 46mins
Paris Montparnasse/Austerlitz – Via Lourdes & Pierrefittes-– Luz Saint Sauveur:  8hrs 37mins

Local Bus Transfers

The Bus Company «Maligne des Gaves» operates #2 line from Tarbes-Lourdes airport to Tarbes, Lourdes and the mountain resorts of Luz Saint-Sauveur and Barèges.

Pick up /Drop off point: Arrival level of the airport/Bus station in resort.
Price: Single Adult/2€; Single child (4 -12 years)/1€. 
Departures days: Daily
Departure Times: Click on the link below
http://www.sla-airport.com/Fichiers/documents/16_HORAIRESBUS2014MalignedesGavesfichehorairePDF(2).pdf

Car Hire

Pyrenees Collection can arrange very competitive car hire at all airports, train stations and other town locations. Any hire duration is possible at competitive prices. Contact our reservations team or see our car hire pages for more information.

TBA

Food Stores

Carrefour Montagne
Rue d'Ossun, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 923111

Carrefour Market
1 Place Montblanc, Esquièze-Sère. Tel: +33(0)562 928301

Butchers

Anthian Butchers
6, rue Pont de Luz, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928036

Sajous et Fils Butchers
2 place Augé de Coufitte, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928003

Soré et Fils Butchers
5 rue d’Ossun, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928004
 
Bakers and Confectioners

Centrale
Place du Marché, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 929116
or 4 rue Cotillon, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928047

La Terrasse
Place du 8 Mai, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928606

Montauban
Rue Pont de Luz, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928 33

Banks

Banque Populaire
20 Ave St Sauveur, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928308
Open Mondays and Wednesdays from 09.00 – 12.15

Banque Postale
11 Ave St Sauveur, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 28214
Open Monday to Friday from 09.00 – 12.00 & 14.00 -16.30. Saturday: 09.00 – 12.00

Taxis

Taxi Caussieu
8 rue Carolins, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 929756 or +33(0)680 144202

Taxi Lavantés
8 rue d’Ossun prolongée, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)633 637120

Pharmacies

Pharmacie De l’Ardiden
Mr Montbroussous. 11 Rue Pont de Luz, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928016

Pharmacie Des Thermes
Mme Planté. 4 Ave Saint-Sauveur, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928015

Medical Centres & Hospitals

Groupe Médical
2 Ave Maoubési, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928085

Doctor Morigny
9 Place du marché, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928561

Lourdes Hospital Centre
2 Ave Alexandre Marqui. 65107 Lourdes. Tel: +33(0)562 424242. Emergencies: +33(0)562 424438

Massage and Physiotherapists

Mr Behague
2 Ave Maoubési, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 928359
 
Mr Bertrand
4 Rue Pont de Luz, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 923758

 
Osteopaths
Mme Capriles Dulce
2 Rue du cotillon, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)632 178985
 
Mr Cazenave
3 Rue Cotillon, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)562 929965

 
Mr. Znibez Yassine
2 Rue du Cotillon, Luz-Saint-Sauveur. Tel: +33(0)645 742828

Luz Ardiden Ski Area

KM: 60
SKI LIFTS: 16
SLOPES: 26 (Green Runs: 4, Blue Runs: 4, Red Runs: 15, Black Runs: 3)
SNOW CANNONS: 105 (covering 30%)
SNOW PARKS: 1 (Inc. Beginners area, jib area, rails, spines, woops, boarder cross and sound system) 

The ski area is split into two distinct areas - Aulian 1730 and Bederet 1680. The Bederet area rises up to a height of 2168m at the top of the Soum des Aulheres peak which is served by a high speed 6 man chair. The area is well suited to intermediate skiers with a good selection of blue and red runs. There is also a connecting blue run from Bederet over to Aulian where you can find more challenging ski runs.

Bederet is also the sector of the Luz Ardiden ski area that has the cross country ski trails. In total there are 5km of cross country ski trails. Walkers and non-skiers will also find marked snow shoe trails in this sector that depart from the base station.

The Aulian sector is the main hub of the Luz Ardiden area. Here, the resort rises up to 2500m to the Col de Cloze and offers mainly red and black runs along with some free-skiing and off-piste.

In complete contrast to the challenging runs that are offered in the high parts of the Aulian sector, this part of the ski area also houses the nursery slopes and the beginners’ area with its green run on the lower slopes. The beginners’ area sits in front of the main building that includes the lift pass office and one of the mountain restaurants - which makes it easy to keep an eye on young beginners from the eating terrace. Aulian also has the snow luge and snow tubing facilities which are on the front slopes.

There is also a world class snow park which is widely regarded as one of the best in the Pyrenees and is popular, but never too crowded, with boarders and skiers alike, featuring numerous jumps, jibs and rails.

Beginners

A dedicated beginner’s area is situated at the base of the Aulian sector and comprises of 5 pistes served by 4 lifts and 1 magic carpet.

Once you’ve got to grips with your technique and mastered the beginner’s area and you feel ready to take on your first green piste, the best option is to take the Pourteres II drag lift to the top of the Ourson run.

When you are ready to face the next challenge of your first blue run, the best place to head is the Bederet sector which has the best selection of blues. The high speed six man chair lift of the Bederet Express will ensure that you get the maximum amount of time to practice your technique on the long and lazy pistes of La Belle Bleue, Myrtilles and La Bleue de Bederet. The three blue runs are all interconnected so you need to pay attention to where you are going in order to arrive back at the foot of the high speed Bederet Express. If you miss the connection from Myrtilles into La Bleue de Bederet you will end up at the foot of the Bergere drag lift which leaves little option to return back to the Bederet Express unless you take a red run! So, if you’re not feeling confident the best option in this scenario would be to take the La Belle Bleue over to the Aulian sector. From here you can connect back to the Bederet sector by taking the six man TSD Aulian Express. If you are in the Aulian sector then you may like to try the Source run which is accessed by the 4 man lift of the same name.

Intermediates
There are a good proportion of red-graded runs, providing an attainable, confidence-building upgrade path for those who are ready to graduate from the long blue cruisers. Try the long, winding red descents with their stunning vistas from summits like Soum des Aulhères (2168m), Picot (2135m), Caperette (2395m) and the 2500m Col de Cloze.

The Bederet area is well suited to intermediate skiers with a good selection of blue and red runs. There is also a connecting blue run from Bederet over to Aulian where you can find more challenging ski runs.

More advanced intermediate skiers can really enjoy the scenic runs and take advantage of the safe areas between them to perfect their powder technique.

Experts
Luz offers some great runs for experts from the top of the Col de Cloze and Caperette. There are also numerous off-piste opportunities for the more adventurous.

Off-piste

For those that like to experiment with the off piste, the Luz Ardiden ski area is actually quite interesting for lift served off piste. When the snow and conditions are good you can ski down past Aulian to Sazos and beyond. From the summit of the Bédéret lifts you cross into a large east-facing bowl of the Combe des Aulhères, which offers 800 meters of vertical. Before you reach the Bédéret road a traverse brings you back to Aulian.

The Aulian bowl itself offers some interesting terrain although it may be considered rather too close to the pistes for those who like the solitude and freedom of true off pisting. Still, a great place to learn off piste skills without the need for a guide!

From the resort summit of 2500m at the Col de Cloze in the Aulian sector, there are some interesting possibilities to the east in the Cirque de Cloze. A cautionary note should be taken as here you are completely outside the ski domain in a real mountain environment with all the additional risks that entails. The descent from the Soum d'Arrioune takes you through the large Bernazou Valley with 1250m of descent that brings you out on a track that leads to the village of Aynis. Caution should be used as there are cliffs after the Lac de l'Espuguette and we would always advise to speak with and use local guides where possible.

Slalom
Luz features both a Stade de Slalom and a Stade de Competition. The Stade de Competition is classified as black and can be accessed via the Badette 2 man chair lift and taking the Badette red run. Anyone can ski it, but at times it may be closed to the public for competitions – so be alert and respect the signs.  The Stade de Slalom can be accessed from the Pourteres II and III lifts. The run conveniently returns to the foot of the slopes at Aulian 1730.

Snowboarders
The world class snow park – which is widely regarded as one of the best in the Pyrenees – is popular is popular with boarders and skiers alike but never too crowded. The park features numerous jumps, jibs and rails and also has a boarder cross sector. The park also has a beginners’ area with easier jumps and rails. The park sound system ensures that you remain entertained as you practice your 180s and 360s.

The steep bowls, with their predominantly red and black pistes offer great terrain where you can enjoy the scenic runs and take advantage of the safe areas between them to perfect your powder technique.

Snowshoe Outings and Hiking
The cross country ski trails are located in the Bederet sector of the Luz Ardiden ski area. In total there are 5km of cross country ski trails. Walkers and non-skiers will also find marked snow shoe trails in this sector that depart from the base station. Please refer to the Activities section for further details and guides.

We have a conveniently located hire shops in Luz Saint Sauveur for all your ski and snowboard equipment needs. We offer competitive prices and special offers are also available. Pre-booking your equipment hire will allow you to save precious skiing time once in the resort and means you can budget for your ski holiday, knowing that it is already book and paid for.

We ensure only the highest standard of equipment and service will be provided for all levels of skiers. The equipment is regularly waxed and edged, boots are disinfected between each rental and the bindings are adjusted by a qualified technician in the resort. We are confident that your equipment will be provided and adjusted when you arrive at the shop. However, the shop technicians will be happy to re-adjust the bindings, or swap any equipment if you require after a few hours or days on the mountain. If you wish to exchange skis against a snowboard mid-week, this will be possible, at a supplement, payable locally. Please note that during peak periods, it may be difficult to exchange equipment, but the staff on site will be happy to assist you the best they can, so please do not hesitate to ask.

We provide skis, boots & poles, skis & poles only, snowboard & boots, snowboard only, boots only, snowblades, cross-country skis & helmets. For first time and recreational skiers (blue); good to intermediate skiers and boarders (red); excellent skiers, boarders and free-riders (black); expert skiers and special techniques (prestige) for adults and children aged 0-6 years & 7-12 years for a minimum duration of 3 days. Please note that we do not offer the basic ‘Green’ category as we feel these are generally inadequate skis even for beginners.

Lift pass gives you access to the whole of the Luz Ardiden ski area.

ESF Luz Ardiden

ESF Luz Ardiden and its 37 qualified instructors are ready to welcome you into the Pyrenees and help you discover the joy of skiing. The French Ski School Luz Ardiden was created in 1975. Today more than 37 ski instructors are at your service to help you discover the joys of skiing in an exceptional location in the heart of the “Toy country” as this Pyrenean area is so proudly called. Passionate about their work, our state qualified professionals teach adults and children in all existing disciplines: skiing, snowboarding, Telemark skiing, Handiski (for disabled skiers). The E.S.F also organises downhill courses and training in disciplines such as Giant Slalom, Special Slalom, Parallel Slalom and Boarder cross.

To meet demand for increasingly diverse, our instructors speak several languages: English, Spanish and German as well as French, of course!!

Group Lessons Ski:
Please note that a valid lift pass is necessary for all group lessons.
The group lessons for over 12 years olds and adults last 2 – 2.5 hours per lesson and are available on a daily basis or a 5/6 consecutive days basis. The levels are shown below.

Beginner Class: I have never skied before and at the end I will take the level 1 Ski test.

Level 1: I have passed the level 1 Ski test and I can do snowplough turns and control my speed on green or blue slopes. At the end I will take the Level 1 test.

Level 2: I have passed the level 1 test – I can make large parallel turns and side-slip smoothly. I am on blue and red runs. I am an Intermediate skier. At the end I will take the Level 2 test.

Level 3: I have passed the Level 2 test – I make parallel turns with ease on all types of runs and at speed. I am a confirmed red run skier. At the end I will take the Level 3 test.

Competition Level: I have passed the level 3 test – I can ski on all types of terrain in all snow conditions. At the end I will take the Chamois test.

Class Times:
Non Holiday period: 10.00 – 12.00
Christmas holidays: 10.00 – 12.00 and/or 14.00 – 16.00
February holidays: 10.00 – 12.30 and/ or 13.30 – 16.00

Note: 3 star. Bronze Star, Gold star and Competition level lessons are only available in the afternoon.

Group Lessons Snowboard:
Please note that a valid lift pass is necessary for all group lessons.
The group lessons which are available for both children (aged 4 years and over) last 2 – 2.5 hours per lesson and are available on a daily basis or a 5/6 consecutive days basis. The levels are shown below.

Beginner Snowboard Class: I have never snowboarded before and at the end I will take the Snowboard welcome test.

Snowboard Class 1: I have passed the Snowboard welcome test and I can change direction and side-slip. I also know how to get up off the slope. At the end I will take the Snowboard Level 1 test.

Snowboard Class 2: I have passed the Class 1 test – I can link front side and back side turns on green runs, I know how to stop when side-slipping, I know how to leaf down the slope and can take a drag lift. At the end I will take the Snowboard Level 2 test.

Snowboard Class 3: I have passed the Class 2 test – I can snowboard on blue and red runs and also in the snow board park. I easily link turns on blue runs by sliding a little. At the end I will take the Level 3 test.

Class Times:
Non Holiday period: 10.00 – 12.00
Christmas holidays: 10.00 – 12.00 and/or 14.00 – 16.00
February holidays: 10.00 – 12.30 and/ or 13.30 – 16.00

Club Piou Piou:
This Children’s skiing club caters for children from 4 – 12 years of age. The children learn to ski through playing and enjoyment and use specially equipped tow ropes to take them up the small baby slopes. The classes last 2.5 hours per lesson and are available on a daily basis or a 5/6 consecutive days basis. The levels are shown below.

Pitchoun: I have never skied before and at the end I will take the Piou Piou test.

Piou Piou: I have passed the Piou Piou test and move at ease through the Piou Piou modules. At the end I will take the Teddy test.

Teddy: I have passed the Teddy test – I can do snowplough turns control my speed and know how to stop. At the end I will take the Snowflake test.

Snowflake: I have passed the Snowflake test – I can take the lift without falling off, I am linking up my snowplough turns and am starting to side-slip. At the end I will take the 1 Star test.

1 Star: I have passed the 1 Star test – I can make basic turns and turn on the spot. I can side-slip and am starting on the green and blue slopes. At the end I will take the 2 star test.

2 Star: I have passed the 2 Star test – I turn with my skis parallel and side-slip on a slope. I am progressing to a moderate speed on blue and red slopes. At the end I will take the 3 star test.

3 Star: I have passed the 3 Star test – I link up my parallel turns (short and medium radius) and take into account external factors whilst skiing. At the end I will take the Bronze Star test.

Bronze Star: I have passed the Bronze Star test – I am starting to make wide turns, elementary sculls and wide turns, I control my balance when making a “schuss” or in a varied terrain such as ski-cross. At the end I will take the Gold Star test.
Competition Class: I have passed the Gold Star test – I can ski without stopping on tracks, I can ski on all types of snow, I take into account the external factors and respect the rules and conduct of skiers. I have an idea about slalom skiing. At the end I will take the Chamois test.

Note: Lift passes are obligatory for under 6 year olds – it is free of charge and is available at the lift ticket office with proof of ID.
For over six year old, they will not need a lift pass on the first day but will probably need it after day one of lessons.

Class Times:
Non Holiday period: 10.00 – 12.00
Christmas holidays: 10.00 – 12.00 and/or 14.00 – 16.00
February holidays: 10.00 – 12.30 and/ or 13.30 – 16.00

Club Mini Piou:
Even the little ones can have a go - the ski instructors take out 3 – 4 year old into a secured snow area which is specially designed for fun and has a rope tow. The classes last 1 hour per lesson and are available on a daily basis or a 5/6 consecutive days basis. There is a minimum of 5 children per class.The levels are shown below.

Piou Piou: With Piou Poui I will discover the snow. I can walk or move around on snow and just like grown-ups, I can put on and take off my skis alone. Snowmen, sledding first steps in the snow and I get my own ski equipment too.

Blanchot: With Blanchot I will start to ski on snow. I will train to walk up the slope and gently slide down the slope.

Sifflote: With Sifflote I can start to ski and control my speed. I learn to snow plough down a slope and can avoid obstacles. Some runs and little jumps and then I join Sifflote to make an igloo.

Garolou: So as to avoid Garalou, I learn how to change direction. With my skis I learn how to make a turn to the left and the right. Like this, I can avoid Garolou when I am skiing.

Titourson: Now I am with Titourson I am doing just fine – just like a grown-up. Now I know how to do lots of things, use the lifts. Control my speed, snow-plough downhill, make turns and stop.  I can even follow my parents on green slopes!

Note: Lift passes are obligatory for under 6 year olds – it is free of charge and is available at the lift ticket office with proof of ID.

Class Times:
Non Holiday period: 10.00 – 12.00
Christmas holidays: 10.00 – 12.00 and/or 14.00 – 16.00
February holidays: 10.00 – 12.30 and/ or 13.30 – 16.00

Ski & Nursery packages are available: Half day: 2 hour ski lesson & 1 hour nursery.

Private lessons:
Available daily from 09.00 – 17.00 with a ski instructor of your choice (availability dependant) private lessons give a one to one experience for personalised tuition at whichever level you choose. You can also take a private lesson for a group of up to 4 people, however you must all be at a similar level of skiing for this option to function.
During the February school holidays private lessons are available for 1 hour or 1 hour 30mins.

Handiski (Skiing for people with reduced mobility)
For Handicapped adults or children who would like to discover the ski area on a tandem ski there are 3 ski instructors qualified to help you discover the delights of skiing. An individual package adapted the persons needs is available for 2 hour or more each day and includes a Tandem ski.

Off Piste
Half Day outings to visit some of the most beautiful off piste areas in the resort can be organised. You must be able to ski/snowboard all types of terrain and there must be a minimum of 4 people.

Please Note: Ski School: Lesson times are subject to change right until the last minute. Outside French school holidays the ski school reserves the right to cancel group lessons should numbers be insufficient. For peak periods (20/12-3/1, 07/2-07/3 & 11/4-25/4) we strongly recommend that you book as early as possible and in any case at least 6 weeks prior to the required dates. Morning lessons tend to get booked up first and therefore we may only be able to offer afternoon classes within 6 weeks of departure. In some resorts English speaking instructors may not always be available, particularly at peak times.