Train d'Artouste & Lac d'Artouste
Ride Europe's highest narrow-gauge train through the French Pyrenees to the stunning Lac d'Artouste.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Train d'Artouste & Lac d'Artouste
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride Europe's highest narrow-gauge train through the French Pyrenees to the stunning Lac d'Artouste.
"An unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes at over 2000m altitude!"
🧥 Pack Layers for Altitude
It's much colder at 2000m! Bring a jacket and sweater, even in summer.
🎟️ Book Return Tickets Early
Secure your return journey in advance, especially if you want to guarantee a specific time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Petit Train d'Artouste
Artouste Station
Ride Europe's highest narrow-gauge train through breathtaking Pyrenean landscapes to a stunning alpine lake.
Lac d'Artouste
End of the train line
A crystal-clear reservoir offering serene beauty and a gateway to further mountain hikes.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Along the train route
Experience unparalleled vistas of the French Pyrenees from the unique vantage point of the train.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Dress for Mountain Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Pack Layers for Altitude
It's much colder at 2000m! Bring a jacket and sweater, even in summer.
🎟️ Book Return Tickets Early
Secure your return journey in advance, especially if you want to guarantee a specific time.
🚶♀️ Hike to Lake Arrémoulit
For the adventurous, a 2-hour hike from Lac d'Artouste leads to another beautiful lake.
🅿️ Ample Free Parking
There's a large, free parking lot at the Artouste station.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Pack Layers for Altitude
It's much colder at 2000m! Bring a jacket and sweater, even in summer.
🎟️ Book Return Tickets Early
Secure your return journey in advance, especially if you want to guarantee a specific time.
🚶♀️ Hike to Lake Arrémoulit
For the adventurous, a 2-hour hike from Lac d'Artouste leads to another beautiful lake.
🅿️ Ample Free Parking
There's a large, free parking lot at the Artouste station.
📸 Capture the Views
The train journey offers incredible photo opportunities of the Pyrenees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Petit Train d'Artouste as a unique and spectacular experience, highlighting the breathtaking Pyrenean scenery and the thrill of riding Europe's highest train. The organization and friendly staff are frequently praised, making it a memorable day out for families and nature lovers alike. Some mention the potential for vertigo due to the cliffside route and the need for warm clothing, but overall, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
"Nature, hiking, trains and cows."
Marius Banica
"Cable car station and little train to Lake Artouste. Departure at 9:15 a.m. for the cable car. Departure at 10:00 a.m. for the little train to Artouste. 55-minute journey to reach Lake Artouste at 1990 meters. Hike to Lake Arrémoulit. 2-hour climb with 350 meters of elevation gain. Lunch break at Lake Arrémoulit at 2265 meters. 1-hour break. Return to Lake Artouste station. Train at 4:45 p.m. for 55 minutes. Cable car and return to the station. It's very well organized. Friendly staff. The weather was great. Booked the return ticket 2 days before to ensure good weather. It's 34 euros for the cable car + little train. Huge parking lot at the foot of the station. Superb day."
Daniel Briand
"More than the station, I'd highlight the high-mountain train to the lake area. It's amazing. First, the cable car, then a 55-minute train ride. Upon arrival, after incredibly beautiful scenery, you have a 20-minute walk along a path with some rocks to reach the reservoir with a lake. The return journey is back on the train, followed by another 55 minutes at cliff level with the occasional marmot wandering aimlessly. Although the train isn't dangerous, it's not suitable for those with heightened vertigo."
Gema Zugasti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Petit Train d'Artouste is located in the French Pyrenees. It's accessible by car, with a large free parking lot available at the Artouste station. Many visitors stay in nearby Spanish towns like Sallent de Gállego or Formigal, which are a short drive from the French border.
Yes, there is a huge, free parking lot at the foot of the cable car station, making it very convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While Artouste is in a mountainous region, nearby towns in Spain like Sallent de Gállego and Formigal offer accommodation and amenities. Pau is a larger city in France that's a longer drive away.
Public transport options to the remote Artouste area can be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easier access to the station.
The train reaches an altitude of approximately 2000 meters (around 6560 feet), with Lac d'Artouste situated at 1990 meters.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but a common option, the 'découverte' ticket, is around 27€ per person. Children under 4 often have different pricing. It's advisable to check the official website for current prices and packages.
Tickets can be purchased at the station. However, it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially for the return journey, to ensure availability and good weather.
The train typically operates from May to October, with the season often starting around mid-May and concluding in late October. Always check the official website for exact opening dates.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is strongly advised, particularly for the return trip, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
A standard ticket usually includes the cable car ride up to the train station and the train journey to Lac d'Artouste. Some packages might include additional perks.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The journey is about 55 minutes each way, covering 17 km at an altitude of 2000m. You'll experience spectacular mountain scenery and cliffside views.
Yes, after arriving at Lac d'Artouste, you can take a 20-minute walk to the reservoir or embark on longer hikes, such as the 2-hour climb to Lake Arrémoulit.
The train runs along cliff edges, which might be unsettling for individuals with severe vertigo. While not inherently dangerous, it's something to consider.
Keep an eye out for marmots, which are often spotted along the train route. The natural mountain environment also hosts various flora and fauna.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the end of the train route near Lac d'Artouste, and some visitors mention being offered white wine and cheese.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The entire journey offers stunning panoramic views of the Pyrenees. Try to capture the dramatic cliffside sections and the vast mountain landscapes.
Mornings often provide clearer skies and softer light. Late afternoon can also offer beautiful golden hour light, but check the return train schedule.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife like marmots.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. Be mindful of other passengers and avoid blocking views.
Yes, the cable car ride also offers fantastic views, so have your camera ready from the moment you start your ascent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Keep them warm with layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. The walk around Lac d'Artouste is generally manageable for children, and the chance to spot marmots adds an extra element of excitement. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Aim for morning or late afternoon light for the best photographic conditions. Don't forget to bring a wide-angle lens for those sweeping landscapes and a telephoto lens if you hope to capture wildlife. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Petit Train d'Artouste
It wasn't until the 1930s that the train's potential as a tourist attraction was recognized. Recognizing the spectacular scenery it traversed, local authorities and tourism operators began to develop it into a visitor experience. Since then, it has evolved into one of the most iconic and beloved attractions in the French Pyrenees, offering a unique journey through dramatic landscapes that were once only accessible to construction crews.
+1Today, the train continues to operate seasonally, allowing visitors to retrace the path of those early workers and experience the same breathtaking views. It stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and a beloved piece of regional heritage.
Experiencing Lac d'Artouste and Beyond
For those seeking more adventure, the area around Lac d'Artouste is a hiker's paradise. A popular option is the trek to Lake Arrémoulit, which involves a more challenging 2-hour climb with an elevation gain of about 350 meters. This hike rewards trekkers with access to another beautiful alpine lake at 2265 meters, offering even more dramatic mountain scenery.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the terrain can be rocky. The natural beauty of the Pyrenees unfolds with every step, making it a rewarding experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Practicalities for Your Visit
Secondly, dressing appropriately for the mountain climate is crucial. Even during the summer months, temperatures at an altitude of 2000 meters can be significantly cooler than in the valley. Visitors are advised to wear layers, including a warm jacket and a sweater, to stay comfortable throughout the train ride and any accompanying walks.
Finally, the train journey itself offers incredible views but can be intense for those with a fear of heights. While the train is safe, the proximity to cliff edges might be a concern for individuals with severe vertigo.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit