LE PETIT TRAIN LUCHONNAIS

Bagnères-de-Luchon, also known as Luchon, has been a spa town since antiquity. The first baths were built during the Roman period, but with the fall of the Roman Empire, they were forgotten and are now only used by the local population. In the 18th century, Baron Etigny worked on the development of Luchon and contributed to its expansion. In 1762, to link the village to the "baigneries", the Allées d'Etigny were opened up through the fields. Later, roads were laid out to Montréjeau. In 1763, Cardinal Richelieu came to Luchon, the royal nobility were captivated and the town's fame began. The town's urban development began. Large houses with very different architectural styles were built. Numerous buildings and resort hotels were built for a demanding and wealthy clientele. In 1880, the Casino was built with a festival architecture alternating modern and Moorish styles: Napoleon III theater, concert halls, restaurant, games room, lounges. Over the years, the spa has expanded and now comprises 3 buildings. Luchon specializes in respiratory and rheumatological treatments, but has broadened its offer to include smoking cessation courses, "freedom cures", treatments for lower back pain and fibromyalgia, and a major fitness center. At an altitude of 1800 metres, Superbagnères overlooks Luchon. It was the first ski resort created in the Pyrenees, and the second in France after Chamonix. Initially, it was linked to Luchon by a small cogwheel train, which ceased operating in 1966 after the road was built. Since 1993, it has been possible to take the cable car up to Superbagnères.