I've been coming to Cauterets for 42 years. I've spent many wonderful times here with my parents and family.
I remember the lively evenings, the fits of laughter at the ice rink, and the nighttime walks.
Cauterets has managed to grow while retaining its mountain village charm. No high-rise apartment blocks like in La Mongie.
The Lys ski area is open to everyone. Expert skiers will probably find it boring because there aren't any really challenging runs, but they can enjoy a magnificent panorama on the ridge run.
The major drawback of this resort is the après-ski scene. Let's be clear, it's boring. No lively bars, no activities or shows offered by the town (neither in summer nor winter). By 9:30 pm, there's practically no one left in the streets. The village is missing an opportunity to attract a younger clientele. It's quite simple: even in the summer, I no longer go hiking in Cauterets, despite the magnificent scenery. I prefer to go to Laruns, for example, which regularly offers concerts and entertainment in the evenings.