Caving
Explore the richness and beauty of the Medus caves, including a magnificent underground river.
Kayaking
Come and discover the exceptional rivers of the Hautes Pyrénées with Tom Rafting! Among other things, you will learn how to manoeuvre and position yourself correctly in the water. In July and August, Tom Rafting offers half-day excursions, which gives you the possibility of carrying out 2 different excursions: ‘initiation’ and ‘thrills’!
Paragliding
Discover the magic of flight during a tandem paragliding baptism above the Campan valley and Bagnères de Bigorre in the Hautes Pyrénées.
Road cycling
For those who would like to venture further, the Pyrenees are a road cyclists dream, offering low-level rides through sleepy traditional villages on almost traffic free roads and climbs winding their way up mountain sides, to Tour de France famous cols. Check out Col du Tourmalet (1h drive) or Col d’appin (1h15m drive).
Hiking, wildlife and scenery
The Pyrenees offer a great variety of scenery for the walker, from high peaks, plateaus and glaciers, lunar landscapes and valleys down to meadows, pasture land and ancient forests. Some of the highlights are glacial lakes and waterfalls and many varied forms of wildlife, with some extremely pretty villages known as ‘bastides’ nestled amongst the mountain. Some of the most beautiful sites include Pic du Midi (1h drive), Cirque de Gavarnie (1h45 drive), Lac de Gaube (1h30 drive), Pont d’Espagne (1h15 drive), Ossau Valley (1h15 drive) and Les Laquettes (1h30 drive).
Coastal activities
There are a variety of fantastic beach spots within driving distance from Le Joie de Vivre. Only 1h 30 mins from Bonnefont, the South-West coastline has some of the most impressive sandy beaches in the world with lot’s to do, whether you want to surf at Hossegor, explore nature along the Cote d’Argent, or visit charming coastal towns like St Jean de Luz along the Basque coast.
Wine-tasting
During your stay, it is impossible not to be tempted by the delicious wine. The local wine region is unique in being home to two AOCs: Madiran and Pacherenc-du-Vic-Bilh. This is particularly original as Madiran is an appellation that only produces reds and Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh, a small, little known appellation with sweet and dry whites. These two appellations coexist in the same production area for the enjoyment of enthusiasts. Check out Chateau Viella, a charming family-run vineyard nearby (40m drive).
Cuisine
Treat yourself to some of the delightful gastronomy in the region. One of our favourites is Sandikala, an exceptional restaurant in a neighbouring village a 10 minute drive away. Australian Chef Luke MacLeod has worked in the greatest kitchens in the world, notably under the direction of renowned Chefs such as Alain Senderens or Michel Guérard. Or drop by the Ferme Auberge de Puydarrieux for their famous stuffed hen.
History and Culture
In an area rich in history and culture, there are countless sites within driving distance that are a must-see for those visiting the area. Pop by Mirande for some Country & Western music in the summer months (30m drive), hop to Marciac for an internationally acclaimed jazz festival in July and August (45m drive), drop into Pau for some shopping and sightseeing (1h) or discover the pink city of Toulouse (1h30).