MIDI PIC

Ready for an escape to the celestial city? The observatory of the Pic du Midi, at an altitude of 2 877 m, will make you discover the sky, the sun, the stars... like nowhere else! The Pic du Midi is the symbol of the Pyrenees, it marks the landscape of the whole region. You can get there on foot thanks to one of the hiking trails or by cable car from the station of La Mongie and the ascent takes 15 minutes. On arrival, you have direct access to the dome of the astronomical observatory. More than a natural site of exception, the Pic du Midi is, indeed, a place of research and scientific studies. It is attached to the Midi-Pyrénées observatory, a UFR of the Toulouse-III-Paul-Sabatier University. Since 1873, researchers have been coming to study stars and galaxies thanks to the incomparable view of solar and atmospheric activity from the summit. The observatory offers to the public a formidable cultural adventure around museographic spaces, exhibitions, models, observation equipment and films. We learn more about the scientific research in progress and we realize how much the skies are an infinite spectacle! In 1907, the first telescope of 50 cm in diameter was installed in the observatory. It is then one of the largest in the world, it allows a few years later to deny the existence of channels on Mars, thus refuting the thesis of the existence of human life on the red planet. The observatory is now at the forefront of research. Today, several telescopes point their gaze deep into the universe and the Siderostat, with its set of mirrors, lenses and filters, allows us to touch with our eyes the sacred fire of the solar star. The site has also opened to the public a didactic interpretation center where one can discover the history of the observatory since its construction, which was a real challenge given the extreme conditions of the site. The two large terraces are the other highlight of the Pic du Midi visit. They will allow you to see more than 300 km of Pyrenean summits, the plains of the south and the first foothills of the Massif Central in a single glance. The panorama is unique and simply grandiose on a clear day! Deckchairs are at your disposal to lounge in the sun and admire the panorama. Don't forget to bring sunglasses and sun protection, the radiation is particularly strong at the top! To help you analyze and understand the landscape in front of you, you can of course ask the site team and read the different panoramic tables that will help you recognize the peaks as well as the interpretation tables, to discover the environment of the Pyrenees. The highlight of the visit is the 12-metre openwork metal footbridge suspended in the void: if you are afraid of heights, it will make you dizzy! On this bridge in the sky, you will have the impression of flying above the mountains, especially since the end is glazed.

Discovering the Pic du Midi is a unique experience that can take place both day and night. Indeed, it is possible to sleep at the top, for an unforgettable experience. From the terrace, you can watch the sunset over the Pyrenees and then enjoy the planetarium, housed under the Baillaud dome, the oldest installation in the observatory. It is the highest planetarium in Europe, where you can admire the stars comfortably from your reclining seat. It is fascinating! After spending a night in one of the rooms that were reserved for researchers until a few years ago, you will enjoy the sunrise over the Pyrenees the next morning. No question, therefore, of sleeping in! The range of activities available at the summit has grown: if you are an experienced skier or snowboarder, you should know that it is also possible to ski down the Pic du Midi. To do so, you need to know the high mountain well, to have the right equipment and to be accompanied by a qualified guide since it is the only totally freeride area in the Pyrenees. Climbing enthusiasts, whether professionals or beginners, will prefer ice climbing. Four climbing lines have been set up from the sky bridge and a high mountain guide will accompany you for an experience that will give you great sensations! More quietly, you can also admire the climbers from the pontoon in the sky. In summer, mountain bikers will enjoy the different itineraries around the Pic du Midi. From July to September, cable cars are available for cyclists to access the different trails. In addition to these sports activities, the Pic du Midi offers an interesting cultural offer and welcomes every year many events in its unique setting. Imagine, a musical stage located at more than 2 877 m of altitude! Among the artists who have performed on this unique stage are Zazie, Christophe Willem, The Avener and Boulevard des Airs. The first piano was installed on the terraces of the Pic du Midi by helicopter. Since then, every year, the Piano Pic festival organizes a concert at the summit. The Pic du Midi is a must for tourism in the Pyrenees, both in winter and in summer when you will discover greener landscapes but just as impressive!