Hôtel du Lion d’Or

Top choice in Parc National des Pyrénées


This Heidi-esque hotel oozes mountain character from every nook and cranny. In business since 1913, it is deliciously eccentric, with charming old rooms in polka-dot pinks, sunny yellows and duck-egg blues, and mountain-themed knick-knacks dotted throughout, from antique sleds to snowshoes. Breakfast includes homemade honey and jams, and the restaurant serves hearty Pyrenean cuisine.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Parc National des Pyrénées attractions

1. Le Donjon des Aigles

6.25 MILES

Some 15km south of Lourdes, in the spectacular surroundings of the 11th-century Château de Beaucens, you can see one of the world’s largest collections of…

2. Parc Animalier des Pyrénées

8.62 MILES

Around 12km south of Lourdes, off the D821 near Argelès-Gazost, this fantastic animal park is home to many species that were once commonly sighted across…

3. Pic du Midi

13.32 MILES

If the Pyrenees has a mustn’t-miss view, it’s the one from the Pic du Midi de Bigorre (2877m). Once accessible only to mountaineers, since 1878 the Pic du…

4. Pic du Jer

13.77 MILES

Panoramic views of Lourdes and the central Pyrenees are on offer from this rocky outcrop just outside town. There are two routes to the top: a punishing…

5. Porte St-Joseph

14.57 MILES

By evening or early morning (when the Porte St-Michel is closed), this is the most convenient access to the sanctuary.

6. Porte St-Michel

14.58 MILES

This gate into the sanctuary is the first you'll reach when approaching from across the river (where you'll find the majority of lodging and dining…

7. Porte de la Crypte

14.58 MILES

Connects the Basilique Supérieure with the Chemin de Croix (Way of the Cross).