Saint Lary lights up for the holidays

The pleasure of an illuminated village for enchanted holidays

Welcoming visitors in a warm setting is a Pyrenean tradition. The village of Saint-Lary Soulan strives to perpetuate it.

By Bruno Boubin

©vincentfrasiak Family Light Mapping Village 07 February 2022 Dsc07233

A little history: the first electric garland

The end-of-year holidays remain a time of conviviality and sharing, sentiments so dear to the Pyrenees. Every year-end, the embellishment of the village streets with Christmas lights and decorations establishes a festive atmosphere. They are also an opportunity to highlight the architectural beauty of this small mountain village, nestled in the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées.

Men have always associated light with all their celebrations.
With the advent of electricity, the prospect of illuminating towns and villages during festive periods took on a new dimension. For the little history, the origin of this phenomenon comes from a private initiative. In 1882, Edward HIBBERD JOHNSON, nephew of Thomas EDISON, had the idea of embellishing his personal Christmas tree with an electric garland.

Henceforth, the end-of-year illuminations and decorations are associated with a festive invitation to share convivial moments. Moreover, we can be satisfied that the village of Saint-Lary Soulan has just celebrated the centenary of a fruitful collaboration with EDF in the supply of one of the most environmentally friendly energies.

The shops

to find a place to stay

The tourist office’s central reservation office takes care of everything.

ideally located

The Aure valley is very easy to access, from the nearest freeway exit you only have 30 kms to go on a road with no twists and turns or passes…

Illumination of the architectural heritage of the village

The mountain village of Saint-Lary Soulan has a remarkable architectural heritage.

Every year, visitors who stroll through the streets of the village appreciate all its authenticity. During the end-of-year celebrations, this impression is reinforced by the illuminations and decorations that highlight this rich heritage.

You only have to stroll down the main street after a day of skiing to be convinced. For all those who would still doubt the soothing and reassuring effect of such a walk, I invite them to finish their night stroll in the thermal park. A change of scenery guaranteed.

©vincentfrasiak Family Village February 11, 2022 Dsc07827

And finally...

Shopkeepers join the party

This winter, the Office of Tourism proposed to the village shopkeepers to decorate their windows. This initiative, in which many merchants have joined, to help strengthen this festive appointment given to residents and visitors to joyfully celebrate the end of the year.

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