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Balnéa - Summer - Japanese baths

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Nathan Birrien

The Hautes-Pyrénées shop

Nathalie, zen cocooning

Passionate about simple pleasures and moments of sharing, Nathalie embodies serenity and generosity. A connoisseur of the gourmet specialities of the Hautes-Pyrénées, she puts her love of nature and escapism at the service of soothing holidays. A specialist in zen and cocooning holidays, she designs gentle, rejuvenating getaways to reconnect you with what’s essential.

Interview

Interview with Nathalie

Well-being and good living
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Nathalie, travel designer

A setting conducive to relaxation. Ideal for a break, to take time for yourself, to disconnect from everyday life and enjoy precious moments with your partner, your children or your friends.

Nathalie, creator of all-inclusive wellness breaks in the Hautes-Pyrénées

Bubbling after skiing: a must in the Hautes-Pyrénées

What do you like to do after a day’s skiing with your partner?

Without hesitation, head for a spa centre. Every resort has its own… it’s easy! All have relaxation areas and a range of pampering treatments. Take a dip in the naturally warm waters, bubble away, find yourself in the steam of the hammam, and enjoy the lagoons with their jets and whirlpools. To finish on a high note, I opt for a treatment. There’s a choice of massage or modelling: hibiscus flower, Dead Sea salt, Tibetan bowl, chocolate (for those with a sweet tooth!)… After such a programme, relaxation is absolute.

What’s your favourite zen experience “made in” the Hautes-Pyrénées?

The balneo hike! A unique formula that combines fresh air and naturally warm water. During the day, there are beautiful walks in magical places (Gavarnie, the Pyrenees National Park, the Pic du Midi…) and at the end of the afternoon, it’s time to relax: time for massages, lagoons… A delicious mix that’s unique to the Hautes-Pyrénées.”

What’s your favourite spot for a quiet walk?

I must admit I’m partial to the Néouvielle Nature Reserve in the Aure valley. With its lakes, hooked pines, rhododendrons and granite peaks, it’s an instant escape. The Laquettes d’Aubert trail is a great way to get a glimpse of this unspoilt world. The icing on the cake is a hot chocolate on the way back to the refuge.

An ideal weekend in the Hautes-Pyrénées means?

A cosy bed and breakfast or a beautiful hotel with the “Hôtel de charme et de caractère” label. If you want to enjoy the fresh air, go for a walk, have a tasty lunch in a local bistro, and at the end of the day go for a dip in the pool.

The treasures of the Néouvielle Nature Reserve

Discover zenitude along the Grande Route des Spas

Tell us about the local delicacies

Madiran, haricot tarbais, Noir de Bigorre, Barèges-Gavarnie mutton… and many more! My pet peeve: a piece of spit-roasted cake for a snack. As you can see, I’m a real gourmet!

Your recommendation for those who want to discover ‘zenitude’?

The Grande Route des Spas! It takes in some very beautiful and varied itineraries. Every day a mythical mountain pass, a great site, a spa centre and every evening a cocooning accommodation full of charm”.