Train-Ski packages from SNCF-TER are a great deal
There is simply no beating the price of the convenience of buying the SKIRAIL package from SNCF-TER. For less than €50, you can get a round-trip train ticket from Toulouse to Ax-les-Thermes which also includes a ski pass for the day. If you want, you can also reserve ski equipment from a partner for a reasonable price. The trip is about 2 hours on the regional TER train.
Ax 3 Domaines
It’s easy to take this station for granted becasue it’s probably the most accessible from Toulouse. But Ax 3 Domaines is still one the most beautiful ski stations in the Pyrénées with some of the most specatular views. Thanks to the recent snowfall, most of the runs are now open (29 of 37). And together, the three ski areas offer more than 5,000 meters of runs. And a one-day lift ticket costs only €37. Tip: Get in line for the telecabine early. The line can get long, but once you get up on the mountain, there’s enough terrain that it never feels too crowded.
Cross-country skiing at Chioula
Downhill is not for everyone. So if you need a change of pace, this Nordic ski station is outstanding. Chioula is located about 15 minutes Ax-les-Thermes and offers 15 trails for cross-country skiing, 4 snowshoe trails, and even a sledding area.
Hospitality at Pyrénées Haven
This sweet little gite is about 10 minutes outside of Ax-les-Thermes. But Pyrénées Haven offers transportation via a van to the train station and the ski areas. It’s a peaceful little getaway started by a British family, and offers hearty breakfast and the possibility of dinner. We loved our stay here and highly recommend it!
Les Bains Du Couloubret
Located right in downtown Ax-les-Thermes, Les Bains Du Couloubret is the perfect coda to a day of skiing. For €18.50, you get two hour access to the thermal baths, where the waters run between 33 degrees Celsius and 38 degrees Celsius. There’s also a hammam and sauna.
Bonus Reason: Public wading pool
Just as you come off the slopes, there is a slow-running, ankle-deep stream of water running through a concrete basin. The water is steaming hot, easily above 40 degrees Celsius, and honestly, the most satisfying soak we’ve had in the Pyrénées. If only we could convince everyone to crank up at least one of their pools to this temperature!
