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.

The Best Places to Stay in Tarbes

For Contemporary Cool

• Le Rex Hotel is a sleek, minimalist spot in the centre of town. Expect design-led spaces done in largely monochrome tones plus indulgent bathrooms and great views over town. Good conference facilities make this a popular business trip choice, but it's also lovely for holidaymakers. The games room, bar and restaurant are sociable gathering spaces.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport, just outside of town, and travel into Tarbes by bus or taxi.
• Hautes-Pyrénées is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures ranging between 20 and 25°C from June to August. May or September-October are ideal for quieter trips. Avoid the school holidays and peak summer if you can, as you'll find the area very busy.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in the Hautes-Pyrénées.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the nearby Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.