Property guide to the Hautes-Pyrénées, a lesser-known department located in the southwest of France, in the Occitanie region. It sits more or less halfway between the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, bordered by Spain in the South and the Gers department in the north. Known for its dramatic landscapes, charming villages, rich cultural heritage, and a variety of outdoor activities, Hautes-Pyrénées has become an increasingly popular place to live for both locals and expats. The region is a haven for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a slower pace of life.
“I’m always struck by how spacious it feels here,” says Yvonne Russell, who has lived in the region for 15 years and manages a team of estate agents for Leggett Immobilier. “I’m originally from Edinburgh, but now I live in a Gascon farmhouse with mountain views, just 90 minutes from the vibrant city of Toulouse. I just love the feeling of space and fresh air you get in the Hautes-Pyrénées, which is what attracted us in the first place together with the fact that properties are very affordable here.”
Access to the region is easy via road, train and air, with international airports in Tarbes and Lourdes and major international airports in Toulouse and Biarritz. The area is well served by the A64 autoroute running the length of the Pyrénées joining Toulouse with Biarritz.
Property guide to the Hautes-Pyrénées
Dominated by the Pyrénées mountains, with the famous Pic du Midi housing the highest observatory in Europe, the department offers some of the most stunning landscapes in France. Snow-capped peaks, mountain lakes, deep valleys, lush forests and an extraordinary range of farming, agriculture land and vineyards.
“The foothills and the north of the department have a very temperate climate, with mild winters, extended springs and Indian summer autumn seasons with lots of sunshine and comfortable temperatures”, adds local Leggett agent, Giles Tilley who has lived here for over 30 years. “The Pyrénées are more family focused than the Alps. The department boasts 14 ski resorts, including those in the Vallée de Luz-Ardiden, the Grand Tourmalet, and Cauterets. These resorts cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. For cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts, there are numerous trails in the region’s forests and valleys.”
For ski-lovers, there are properties in all price ranges with a modern lock-up and leave 1-bed apartment (37m2) with balcony on a Golf Course with stunning mountain views in Bagnères de Bigorre, a vibrant spa town of going for under €135,000 and a 4-bedroom chalet style home with heated swimming pool within easy reach of ski resorts from around €430,000.
Property Hotspots in the Hautes-Pyrénées
While it’s no surprise that the ski/spa resorts are property hotspots, the rest of the department attracts those looking for the temperate climate and great mountain views.
The Pyrénées National Park, which covers much of the South of the department, has dramatic scenery and a chance to experience unspoiled nature. This protected area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, Pyrenean chamois, marmots, and golden eagles. The Cirque de Gavarnie, described by Victor Hugo as “the colosseum of nature” boasts the largest waterfall in Europe and can be explored on foot or by donkey!
When the snow melts, the Hautes-Pyrénées transforms into a paradise for hikers, mountain cyclists and climbers. The Tour de France passes through the Pyrénées every year, attracting cycling enthusiasts to the area to experience the famous mountain climbs for themselves. The region is also known for its excellent conditions for paragliding, offering stunning aerial views of the Pyrénées. Many towns and villages have rugby, football, cycling and tennis clubs and some have public swimming pools and gyms.
One of the most notable cultural landmarks is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. Lourdes, population 14,000, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. It’s possible to buy a 5-bedroom, 1930s art-deco style apartment with a large terrace and outbuildings here for under €200,000 and property in the town offers great potential for holiday rentals.
Tarbes, capital of the Hautes-Pyrénées (44,000 residents), is a bustling town known for the Jardin Massey, the Haras (formerly a National Stud) specialising in Anglo-Arab horses and the local mountain pony, the Merens and the Musée Massey, which showcases the region’s art and history. It is a well-known equestrian town and hosts the Equestrian festival at the Haras each year. Apartments range from €80,000 upwards and town houses start from about €170,000. You can buy a spacious family home renovation project just outside of Tarbes for under €250,000.
Other notable towns in the Hautes-Pyrénées include Argelès-Gazost, a picturesque village nestled in the Pyrenean foothills, and Madiran, home to a tiny but unique wine region, specialising in strong reds which pair perfectly with the local cuisine of game, duck and pork. Traditional regional cuisine includes garbure (a hearty vegetable and pork soup/stew), Porc Noir (black pork) de Bigorre, haricot Tarbais (Tarbes beans) and smoked trout.
“If you’re looking for plenty of space, head southeast of Tarbes to one of the rural villages like Libaros, where there are only 15 residents per square kilometre,” recommends Giles. “Here you’ll find typical L-shaped Gascon-style properties, a ready to move into farmhouse with lots of land will start at from around €375,000.
“Another great location is Trie-sur-Baïse, a former farming village 40 minutes east of Tarbes that has a thriving expat community including English, Americans, Dutch, Belgians, Germans and Australians. In villages like this, you can find plenty of 4-bedroom 2-bathroom houses with outbuildings and gardens for between €300,000 and €350,000.”
Year-round living
The cost of living in the Hautes-Pyrénées is generally lower than in major French cities like Toulouse, Bordeaux or Lyon, making it an attractive destination for those looking for a more affordable lifestyle. The area offers a mix of rural homes, modern apartments, and traditional village properties, catering to various tastes and budgets.
The lifestyle in the Hautes-Pyrénées is relaxed, with a strong focus on family, community, and outdoor living. The region’s small-town and village atmosphere fosters a sense of community, and locals tend to be friendly and welcoming.
For families, the Hautes-Pyrénées offers excellent schools and educational opportunities, with both public and private institutions available. The region is also known for its strong traditions and local festivals, village fetes and sporting events. From the lively Carnaval de Bigorre to Tango Argentin in Tarbes, there is always something happening in the Hautes-Pyrénées.
“Living in the Hautes-Pyrénées offers an incredible quality of life, combining natural beauty, outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and a strong sense of community” says Gilles.
“Whether you’re drawn to the area for its mountains, its history, or its peaceful rural life, this region of France has something for everyone. The slower pace of life, combined with easy access to nature and a supportive local community, makes it an ideal place to settle for those seeking a more serene and fulfilling lifestyle. It really is a location that’s hard to beat.”
See Giles Tilley’s selection of French properties for sale in the Hautes-Pyrénées
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