Peddlers' Pyrenean Paradise

We have just been away for the weekend to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Chez Passet is situated in the quaint village of Lézignan, 3 km east of Lourdes in the rolling foothills of the scenic Hautes Pyrénées mountains of Southwest France. This is more than 200 kms due west of us, driving along parallel to the Pyrenees.

We were instantly welcomed by Di and Tim and, after 2 days of relaxed and well-fed visitation, we are well pleased and feel we have made new friends for life. We chose to spend the daytime doing the touristy thing, visiting local towns we have long wanted to see, but most visitors go to Chez Passet for the sporting benefits, especially to cyclists, but also for walkers and runners.  I have borrowed most of the text of this post (the italic bits) from the home page of their website:

http://www.chezpasset.com/Chez_Passet/Maison_Passet.html

The Passet is located minutes away from the world famous and classic Tour de France cycle routes. In winter the slopes become a playground for skiers, boarders and winter enthusiasts who enjoy plentiful snow and multiple activities all available at the nearby ski resorts

Chez Passet is the place to stay if you are searching for; among other things, exceptional cuisine, spacious and well appointed accommodation, world class cycling, winter fun or just peaceful relaxation

Chez Passet is a historic Maison de Maître and Grange that have both been sympathetically restored to form a tranquil and luxurious bed and breakfast that caters to those who embrace lifestyle and quality

We have 5 guest rooms available, all with private and modern en-suite bathroom facilities

The price of the room includes a fresh buffet breakfast which is served in our spacious dining room or outside, weather permitting. If you are looking for great food - dinner is available on request as an additional option, prepared by Di a professional Chef and Sommelier

Outside, there is plenty of private parking, secure bike/ski storage and for those looking to take a dip at the end of a long summers day we have a heated pool and sun terrace to enjoy

We offer airport pick up and drop off service from our local airports Lourdes/Tarbes

Shuttles to and from Pau, Toulouse and Biarritz can also be arranged (€)

We are also pleased to be able to offer our guests the use of town bicycles available for exploring nearby Lourdes

What it doesn't mention on the home page is that Tim is a very keen and experienced cyclist whose brains you can pick in order to get the best out of your visit if cycling is your bag. All the rooms at Chez Passet are named after famous climbs in the Tour de France. Our room was called Tourmalet. The Col du Tourmalet - the granddaddy of them all - is very nearby and beckons you to come and try your luck.

The food really is excellent, the company is delightful and we can not recommend this place highly enough.