Deemed by many to be the gateway to the Pyrenees Mountains, Tarbes is a bustling south-western French town with widespread appeal. The capital of the Hautes-Pyrénées, Tarbes is just 1.5 hours from the Atlantic Coast and 30 minutes from some terrific ski slopes, making it a wonderful stopover for outdoorsy types, in addition to relaxed families and couples. Fit for a range of tastes and budgets, the best places to stay in Tarbes include private townhouses as well as chic contemporary hotels.
Set at an altitude of 1,000 feet, Tarbes offers mesmerising mountain views. Its centre is appealingly walkable, and home to some impressive churches — most notably the Notre-Dame-de-la-Sède Cathedral and the Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste — as well as the 1805-built Haras de Tarbes. Visit the Maison Natale du Marechal Foch, who was born in Tarbes, or the Musée de la Déportation et de la Résistance for an insight into the region’s history. The 23-acre Jardin Massey, created in the 19th Century by Placide Massey, is fantastic for scenic strolls; the School of Art & Ceramics and the unusual Musée Massey are also housed on the grounds.
Hike or run along the riverside Caminadour trail during the warmer months, hit the ski slopes in the winter, or venture to legendary Lourdes — 19km away — on pilgrimage throughout the year. The best places to stay in Tarbes fill up fast, so book your room well in advance.
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Tarbes
Contemporary hotel located in the centre of Tarbes. Rooms are sleek and modern with minimalist designs that optimise space and comfort. Equipped with meeting facilities to accommodate for 200 people, making it perfect for business or seminar weekends.
