Overview
The Pic du Midi de Bigorre is a summit of 2,877 m in the French Pyrenees, reached by cable car from the village of La Mongie. At the top is an observatory founded in the 19th century, which has contributed to astronomy and mapping the Moon, and a modern visitor centre with terraces facing the Pyrenean ridge.
The site lies within an International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the first in Europe, so the night sky is exceptionally clear. Visitors can spend a night at the summit, which includes dinner, a night-sky observation session and sunrise over the mountains. The cable car runs all year but depends on the weather.
Highlights
- The cable car ride from La Mongie to the summit
- The terraces with views of the Pyrenean chain
- Night-sky observation sessions and overnight stays
- The observatory museum
Best time to visit
May to October is the best time for weather, though clouds often cover the summit. Winter offers snow and crisp air, but the cable car can close in strong winds. Overnight stays should be booked early.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Good
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Tarbes-Lourdes (LDE) or Toulouse (TLS), then drive about 40 minutes from Tarbes or 2 hours from Toulouse to La Mongie. The cable car leaves from the Col du Tourmalet station. Tickets and overnight stays are best booked in advance.
What to expect
Easy. The cable car does the climbing, and the summit paths are short and well made. At 2,877 m, it can be cold, windy and thin-aired. Dress warmly.
Practical tips
- Check the weather and webcams before you go, and have a backup plan.
- Book tickets and overnight stays early in summer.
- Take warm layers and sun protection: it is cold and bright.
- Allow time for the winding road to La Mongie.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the summit?
By cable car from La Mongie, about 15 minutes.
Can I stay overnight?
Yes, the observatory has accommodation with dinner and an evening of astronomy.
Is it open in winter?
Yes, but the cable car can close in strong wind or bad weather.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Serge Ottaviani (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
