Vielle-Aure

Lac d'Aumar réserve Néouvielle JG SOULA

A unique territory between peaks and valleys

 

In the upper Aure valley, not far from Saint-Lary-Soulan, there is a charming and unusual little village. Vielle-Aure has the particularity of being a commune divided in two. To the west, the exclave is a real earthly paradise located in the Neouvielle National Nature Reserve and its sublime mountain lakes. To the east, discover the heart of the village and its narrow streets lined with houses, its chapel Saint-Pierre d'Agos listed, its church Saint-Barthélémy. Only 20km from Spain, Vielle-Aure is the starting point for all your mountain activities, summer and winter: downhill skiing, paragliding, mountain biking, speed-riding, dog sledding...

A 100% natural exclave in the heart of the Néouvielle nature reserve

The exclave of Vielle-Aure is located in the magnificent Néouvielle national nature reserve, beyond Aulon and Lac de l'Oule. Take the lake route via Saint-Lary to reach this immense sanctuary, a place with endless possibilities for hiking all year round. In this jewel of the Pyrenees, you will discover many crystal-clear blue mountain lakes, including the Bastan, Bear and Port-Bielh lakes, in just a few kilometres! Then head to the far west of the exclave of Vielle-Aure in Néouvielle. You discover the lakes of Aubert and Aumar. At an altitude of 2150m, the peaks of Estibère and Madamète are reflected in the blue sapphire waters of these splendid twin lakes. Around you, a rich fauna and flora of the Pyrenees including a forest of pine trees with hooks, the highest in Europe. Enjoy this wonderful setting to rest, breathe the fresh high altitude air and picnic on the beautiful green lawns. Good news, swimming is allowed... but beware of the temperature! In winter, spend an unforgettable night at the refuge near Lake Aubert. If you wish to discover the exclave of Vielle-Aure on foot, follow the GR 10 to the west from the village, you will pass through the Col de Portet and the Lac de l'Oule before reaching the lakes of Aubert and Aumar. Be careful, the route is reserved for experienced hikers: 20km of walking and 2000m of positive altitude difference.

Image
Lacs Aubert Aumar Néouvielle

Its village centre, Pyrenean par excellence

At the northern end of the village, very close to the Neste d'Aure, visit the pretty chapel of Saint-Pierre d'Agos from the 12th century. In the Middle Ages, it was next to a hospice housing pilgrims crossing the Pyrenean peaks. It has been classified as a Historic Monument since 1863. Its small bell tower contrasts with the rest of the building: it dates from the 19th century, after the award of the label. In the centre of Vielle-Aure, head towards the bell tower of the Saint-Barthélémy church, which dominates all the other buildings in the area. Enter this Romanesque building, also from the 12th century. From the very first seconds, you are captivated by the superb 14th century paintings on the ceiling of the apse, perfectly preserved. Returning to the central square, you will find the Tourist Office of Pyrénées2vallées. Our holiday advisors will welcome you with a smile and introduce you to all the wonders of the Aure Valley. For nearly 15 years in August, the village of Vielle-Aure has been hosting the start and finish of one of the biggest races in the region: the Grand Raid des Pyrénées. The best ultra-trailers in France and elsewhere face the slopes of Néouvielle and Hautes-Pyrénées. Also discover the museum of the mine of Vielle-Aure, which will make you discover the history of this little-known work in a real converted mine.

Image
Chapelle d'Agos Vielle-Aure

Also to be discovered

Recommended for you

Let yourself be tempted by the suggestions of Pyrénées2vallées and enjoy a life-size experience in our destination.