The construction of the Hospice du Port de Vénasque, as it was originally named, dates back to the 13th century. Its purpose was to welcome and help pilgrims and traders who risked their lives in winter. Later, the Port de Vénasque road was built to allow access on horseback. The name “Hospice de France” dates back to the 19th century.
In 1858, thanks to the opening of a carriageway from Luchon, the Compagnie des Guides de Luchon, one of the only companies on horseback, organised rides there. It was also the starting point for prestigious excursions. The inn was the place to go to look after the horses on their return from the expeditions.
From the Empress Eugénie, who gave her name to the path leading to the Cirque de la Glère, to President Vincent Auriol, many illustrious guests came to visit this special place. The famous aviatrix and daughter-in-law of the President, Jacqueline Auriol, also stayed here several times after her serious plane crash, as did many artists in the 60s and 70s.
In 1938, the old inn became the Hostellerie de l’Hospice de France, run by Odon Haurillon, a mountain guide and ferryman during the war. It became famous for its warm welcome, its gastronomy and also for its 2 teddy bears, captured by the owner in May 1952, which were a great attraction for guests.
Closed in winter, the hotel gradually lost its appeal. In 1976, the road was cut off by a landslide, and Odon Haurillon died in 1978. It wasn’t until 1988 that a new road was built on the other side of the valley, as the geological configuration of the terrain made it impossible to use the old route. Crossing numerous avalanche paths, this road is closed in winter. Access is then only possible on foot along the old path. The inn was restored and reopened in 2009.
The Hospice de France remains a privileged natural site, the starting point for many climbs of varying difficulty. The chemin des chèvres (goat path) is ideal for family walks. After a number of twists and turns through the Vallée de la Pique, the most experienced climbers will reach the Port de Vénasque, the border crossing with Spain. From here, you can access the Monts Maudits massif, with its Maladeta and Aneto peaks (the highest in the Pyrenees at 3,404m).
Also on the route is the Arboretum de Jouéou, founded in 1929 by Professor Henri Gaussens, with a vast collection of extremely rich deciduous and coniferous trees. A scientific laboratory, it has been home to researchers and students from Toulouse’s Paul Sabatier University for over 10 years.
Hiking in the mountains, even at low altitude, requires a certain knowledge of the environment and a large number of precautions. Contact the professionals and check the weather forecast before setting off.
For any further information, please contact the Tourist Office.
