Special Eclipse trip: hiking and bivouacking under the stars near the Pic du Midi
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationArreau / Pyrenees
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions26.01 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
Spanish
In a few words
Treat yourself to a nature escape for a long weekend under the stars during the total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026. For three days , embark on a scenic hike in the heart of the Pyrenees , near the Pic du Midi de Bigorre . Each evening, be amazed by an exceptionally clear sky in the heart of one of France's few International Dark Sky Reserves .
Your nights will be punctuated by alternating between bivouacking in the heart of nature and staying in barns , for total immersion in a pristine environment. This trip, designed to be accessible to all , is ideal for lovers of wide open spaces and mountain hiking , provided they have a basic level of fitness .
A rejuvenating adventure where hiking and stargazing combine for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Pyrenean peaks .
A unique opportunity to observe the total solar eclipse in an extraordinary setting, far from any light pollution!
The highlights
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Immersion in the Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve
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An opportunity to observe the total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026
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Immersive nature experience: bivouacking and overnight stay in a barn in a friendly atmosphere
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
The hikes are fairly easy, with a maximum elevation gain of 400m. Since it involves walking and camping, you'll still need to be reasonably fit to carry the packs.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 4h30
- Average distance/day: 2 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 234 m
- Average daily descent: 567 m
Management
French
English
Spanish
Guillaume or a member of his team will take charge of you to accompany you on this trip.
Supervision by a state-certified mountain guide.
Program
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Scenic hike and night under the stars
- Transportation Minibus - 00h25 - 15km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 600 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
In the early afternoon, you set off on a panoramic hike with breathtaking views of the Pic du Midi de Bigorre . The trail leads you to a clearing , where you will set up your tent for the night.
As night falls, after a barbecue, your guide will offer you either a night walk or a stargazing session using specialized equipment. A special moment to enjoy the tranquility of nature under the stars.
Day 1 -
Hiking and Solar Eclipse
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 800 m
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
If you have the energy and inclination, your guide will suggest watching the sunrise from one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the area. Back at camp, you'll enjoy breakfast overlooking the mountains before packing up your bivouac and ensuring you leave no trace behind.
The day continues with a hike through the heart of the mountain landscapes . The day's stage ends in the late afternoon, just in time to reach a gîte or barn , where you can relax and shower . After a meal prepared by your hosts , you will set off to observe the total solar eclipse that will occur before sunset: a chance to witness this natural spectacle in the Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve (RICE), far from any light pollution.
Day 2 -
Last hike and end of the trip
- Transportation Minibus - 00h25 - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 5 km
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Upon waking, the images of the starry night will still be vivid. After a hearty breakfast , you'll leave your accommodation for one last hike . It will lead you to a clear viewpoint , ideal for solar observation —a final moment of contemplation before the end of your adventure.
Day 3
Note
The elevation gain and walking time are estimates and may vary depending on snow conditions, the pace of the participants, etc. The partner agency and your guide reserve the right to modify this program for various reasons such as weather or physical conditions.
Accommodation
On day 1, you will sleep in a bivouac, either in a tent or under the stars , depending on your preferences and the weather conditions. A total immersion in nature.
For day 2, you will go to a gîte or a barn , with shared sleeping arrangements , offering a little more comfort after a beautiful day of hiking.
Access
You will be back in Arreau around 3pm
Go to the starting point
- Bus: Take line 963 (liO network) which connects Lannemezan station to Arreau (approximately 40 minutes journey, flat fare of €2 ). The stop is located in the centre of the village.
- Taxi: Allow approximately 30 minutes journey time from the station (estimated fare between €60 and €80 depending on the time of day).
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be supervised by a state-certified mountain guide.
- Full board from dinner on Day 1 to picnic lunch on Day 3
- Accommodation in a bivouac on day 1 and in a gîte or barn on day 2
- Local transportation
- Camping equipment (except sleeping bag)
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Personal expenses
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Tents
- Floor mat
Equipment to bring
For the activity :
- A pair of hiking boots, waterproof if possible and sturdy. If you buy a new pair before leaving, make sure to wear them in a little beforehand, otherwise you risk blisters that could even prevent you from finishing your trek.
- A pair of poles can be very useful to relieve the effort.
- A 30-40 liter backpack will be sufficient to carry your day's essentials, some food, and your water bottle (approximately 1.5 liters). A comfortable backpack is appreciated on long days. Be aware that on this type of trek, the weight of your pack is truly the enemy! We can discuss this further if you wish.
- For the "just in case" items at the bottom of the bag: some cereal bars or other dried fruit, a headlamp, a small survival blanket, a knife, some strapping tape and a pair of shoelaces.
For sleeping :
- Your down
- A meat bag
Clothing to bring
When hiking, the weather can change rapidly . To stay comfortable and protected, here's what you should prepare:
- Loose-fitting, waterproof and windproof clothing (Gore-Tex type jacket)
- Lightweight down jacket to protect against the cool wind
- Beanie for cool mornings and evenings
- Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect against UV rays
- Small toiletry bag with Marseille soap , environmentally friendly
