France’s highest hotel reopens after three decades

The Hôtel des Laquets, located just below the summit of Pic du Midi de Bigorre in the Hautes-Pyrénées, welcomed again his first visitors on September 25, 2026, following an extensive renovation and expansion. The four-star property is billed as the highest hotel in France, adding a distinctive option to the country’s mountain tourism offering.

Built between 1930 and 1933, the hotel originally accommodated visitors making their way to Pic du Midi. Over the decades, it became part of the history of Pyrenean mountaineering before closing its doors for almost three decades.

The renovated property offers now 16 double rooms, accommodating up to 32 guests. Its facilities include a restaurant, bar and relaxation areas with a sauna and hammam.

However, the main attraction is the setting. Rooms and communal spaces offer sweeping views across the Pyrenees, with the experience designed around tranquility, nature and a retreat from everyday distractions.

The hotel’s location also creates opportunities for a different kind of mountain stay, particularly after sunset, when the summit’s daytime visitors have departed and the surrounding landscape becomes quieter.

Overnight guests at Hôtel des Laquets will also enjoy an exceptional gastronomy experience created by Michelin-starred chef Stéphane Tournié, while a snack bar will cater to hikers and day visitors.

Getting there is part of the experience
Access to the hotel adds another distinctive element to the stay. Visitors first take a cable car from La Mongie to the summit of Pic du Midi. A private cable car then transports them down to the hotel, located several hundred meters below the summit.

Once the last visitors have left the peak, overnight guests can experience the mountain in a quieter setting, with the night sky becoming one of the principal attractions.

Pic du Midi lies within an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it a notable destination for travellers interested in astronomy and stargazing. With reduced light pollution and an elevated position above much of the surrounding landscape, the location offers particularly appealing conditions for observing the stars.

The reopening also adds a new dimension to tourism in the Pyrenees, where visitors can combine mountain scenery and outdoor activities with a more exclusive overnight experience.

The project represents a major investment in the region, with €12 million spent on several years of renovation and construction. The hotel will then significantly expand accommodation capacity at Pic du Midi, where overnight stays are already in strong demand.

By restoring a nearly century-old property and adapting it to contemporary four-star standards, the Hôtel des Laquets aims to turn a historic mountain landmark into a destination in its own right. The views, the silence and the night sky are the main elements of its appeal for discerning travellers.