10 Most Picturesque Villages in the Pyrenees

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, an integral part of the route to Compostela, is both a haven for pilgrims and a delight for history and architecture enthusiasts. The last stop on the Jacobean route before the Spanish border and the Roncesvaux pass, the village is surrounded by pink sandstone ramparts and crisscrossed by medieval streets lined with charming old-fashioned buildings.

Crossed by a beautiful river, the centre is the ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation. The old houses decorated with sculpted lintels provide an attractive reflection in the river waters and the pretty shops showcase local crafts and gourmet products of the region, evidence of its attachment to traditions. Basque dances and pelota, the local court sport, are a delight.

Eus, a must-see village, stands on a granite hill whose flanks shape its terraced layout. With its cobbled alleyways lined with bougainvillea, cactus and lemon trees, it provides an idyllic backdrop for your summer strolls blessed with generous UV rays. As natural as it is cultural, it boasts sublime panoramas of the scrubland and Mont Canigou as well as high quality artistic and musical entertainment.

The centre of the village is pedestrianised and the ideal place to discover its craft shops in complete tranquillity before heading for the summit. This is where the majestic Saint-Vincent-d'en-Haut church now stands, on the site of the former castle.

Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges nestles at the foot of the Pyrenees, proudly displaying its medieval ramparts. In the heart of these surroundings with a strong spiritual influence, time seems deliciously frozen. Enter through one of the 3 imposing gates and wander through its steep streets lined with charming old houses. Discover significant religious buildings, including the Romanesque-Gothic Sainte-Marie Cathedral and its superb cloister.

Along your route, enjoy the breathtaking views of green hills and snowy peaks. Artisan boutiques give you the opportunity to see local products, while the fields at the foot of the village are a window on the pastoral activity of the region.

Arreau is defined by the presence of water, as fast-flowing as it is rejuvenating. Situated at the confluence of 4 rivers that flow down from the mountains, the town boasts a typical Pyrenean architecture, with stone houses, wooden balconies, galleries and slate roofs pierced with skylights that let the generous rays of sunlight filter through.

The town hall and the Château des Nestes are worth a visit, but it’s the serenity of the vast surrounding spaces that truly attracts visitors. In summer, the landscape shimmers with greenery, while in winter, it transforms into a poetic scene with a white quilt of snow against hazy peaks.

Evol is the very definition of picturesque. This mountain hamlet, a jewel of the Regional Park of the Catalan Pyrenees, seems frozen in time and has a host of surprises in store for you; a bread oven here, a pretty inner courtyard there.

Its traditional schist houses are topped with slate roofs, unfortunately in danger of disappearing in their native South-West. In this rocky world, countless bright flowers greet you, brightening your walk with a photogenic contrast. The ruins of a castle dominate this remote village and fascinate the imagination. 

Peyre, a unique blend of traditional and contemporary architecture, serves as an intriguing base for your trip to the French Pyrenees. Situated entirely within the borders of the Grands Causses Regional Nature Park, the village seems to hang from the cliffside and boasts, among other things, sumptuous examples of tufa cave-dwellings, starting with the fortified Romanesque church of Saint-Christophe.

Stroll through the village's cobbled streets, which often consist of staircases, to soak up the charm of the old stones, which offer a striking contrast to the hints of modernity scattered here and there. These include the panoramic view of the Millau viaduct, designed by Norman Foster, or the stained-glass windows of the church created in 2001.

Sarrancolin is the gateway to the stunning Aure valley and is an ancient medieval town with an unspoilt charm. Renowned for its marble production, examples of which can be admired in Versailles, the Petit Trianon and the chateaux of the Loire, the town is built around the old quarter and its half-timbered houses. These houses feature galleries that overlook the water, ensuring cool air throughout.

Here and there, the green landscape is studded with conical roofs that plunge you into an almost legendary era. As for the views of the Crête des Coqs or the Lannemezan plateau, they are simply breathtaking. Whether you are a hiker, cyclist or a casual stroller, you will feel at home here.

Ainhoa, an ancient, fortified village on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, is as small as it is fascinating. With its unique street lined with Labourdine houses with typical Basque red or green half-timbering, the village offers you a natural retreat in complete tranquillity, without falling short in terms of culture. Discover the disc-shaped and tabular headstones in its beautifully landscaped cemetery with open views.

Visit the 13th-century church with its coffered wooden ceiling, wooden galleries, golden altarpiece and vaulted choir. The square bell tower is another highlight. And don’t miss the local specialities available in the village’s charming food shops, which are sure to delight your taste buds.

Navarrenx was one of the first fortified towns in France, a status that still permeates its cultural heritage today. The village is encircled by imposing ramparts, which were built in the style of Vauban a century before the advent of the famous military architect. Considered impregnable, the village is proud of its reputation, which also owes much to its famous musketeers. At its feet flows the Gave d'Oloron, a river where salmon abounds.

Fishing enthusiasts, prepare your rods, and foodies, get your forks ready. Discover local specialities at the Navarrenx market. And if you like thrills, don't miss the chance to canoe, raft or paddle board up the river with the walled town as a stunning backdrop.

Collioure is a little coastal jewel on the Côte Vermeille. When you think of the Pyrenees, you normally think of mountains, but it would be a real pity to miss Collioure. Known for inspiring painters like Matisse and Picasso, this enchanting town offers a perfect escape from daily life. 

With pebble beaches, azure waters, secluded creeks and shimmering facades whose colours match those of the boats moored in the harbour, Collioure has all the ingredients for an idyllic stay. Add a castle overlooking the ocean, a museum of modern art and Vitrine sur le Fauvisme and you have a cultural and historical offer worthy of a big city. Don't miss tasting its famous anchovies, a delight for food lovers.