Pyrénées Emotions

If an arduous journey makes the destination all the more appreciated, then you'll be kissing the 'Bienvenue' sign upon arrival at Pyrénées Emotions. Well, that's if you're arriving by bike at least. High up on the Col des Ares, it's little wonder this snaking, recline tests the world's best cyclists (not to mention a few brave amateurs) during the Tour de France. But the trade-off for all the huffing, puffing, and... ahem... thigh chafing? Well, just look around you. The lush, herbaceous landscape, dotted with grazing Mérens horses is so spectacularly splendrous. It is also blissfully quiet – hard to believe you're only 30km or so from the vibrant Pyrenean spa town and ski resort of Luchon.

The campsite itself is well-appointed, secluded, and fastidiously-run by dutiful Franco-Dutch couple Laetitia and Stefan van Lanen. Relaxation and tranquility are the order of the day here and a blissed-out bonhomie pervades amongst the eight privileged pitches and single log cabin. Your hosts are on hand with everything from fresh bread in the morning to the best route to the nearby swimming lake at Saint Pé d'Ardet. All round Action-Man Stefan is your leading authority on hiking, biking and everything in between. He lives and breathes the outdoor lifestyle and is happy to arrange excursions. He's qualified to lead canyoning, rafting, kayaking and climbing groups – something he does on a regular basis and the main reason he moved to the area.

After a day of white-water rafting down the Garonne, tackling the mighty Pic du Gar, or simply flâneuring past the Belle Époque villas of Luchon, campers can rest with their feet up in the campsite's little restaurant, housed in a beautiful mountain lodge that's over 100 years old. The food isn't bad either, with continental breakfasts, light lunches and even three-course meals available. Those in the know, meanwhile, congregate round the communal campfire (marshmallows are compulsory) and contemplate on what experiences tomorrow will bring. As Laetitia and Stefan surmise, their site offers a "harmony of culture, nature, and adventure". We second that emotion.