Group Immersion June 2027
When
From the 6th to the 11th of June, 2027
Where
Who for
This French Hiking Immersion Retreat is open to learners from elementary level upwards who can already take part in simple everyday conversations in French. We also welcome French hiking enthusiasts who wish to discover the beauty of the Louron in an international atmosphere
Content
50h of French practise (French tuitions + activities + full board / accommodation)
Group size limit
13 people - 1 hiking guide, 1 to 2 French tutors
Price
Starting from 1450€
Hike the Pyrenees | Speak French.
Ready to take your French beyond the classroom—and into the mountains?
Join us for five days in the spectacular Louron Valley, where every trail becomes an opportunity to speak, listen and grow in French. Based in Loudenvielle, surrounded by dramatic peaks, a sparkling lake and charming villages, you will experience the Pyrenees while living the language from morning to night.
With a qualified mountain guide and one or two experienced French teachers, depending on the group, you will enjoy five carefully chosen hikes adapted to the group. Whether you are building confidence or refining your fluency, you will practise French naturally while walking, sharing meals, discovering local life and relaxing after a rewarding day outdoors.
Each day includes two hours of targeted language development, designed to support your progress in real, meaningful situations—no stuffy classroom, just practical and encouraging French.
More than a language stay
This fully supported immersion combines adventure, comfort and well-being. Stay in a welcoming gîte, enjoy delicious meals and picnics, and benefit from the attentive care of your teachers and guide throughout the journey.
Your stay also includes a two-hour visit to Balnéa, the renowned thermal-wellness centre of Loudenvielle, and a yoga or relaxation session to restore body and mind.
A unique human experience, 100% in French :
🥾 Five guided hikes in the spectacular Louron Valley
💬 A mountain guide and French teachers adapted to the group
🚀 50 hours of French immersion, with daily language support
🏘️ Discovery of traditional villages, local culture and authentic Pyrenean life
🛏️ Comfortable gîte accommodation and a warm, supportive atmosphere
Walk further. Speak freely. Feel at home in French.
Your program
Day 1 - Sunday
From 3pm (+/-): Arrival
We will welcome you to the gîte and show you to your room.
From 7:30pm: let's get to know each other over a flavourful buffet dinner
Day 3 - Tuesday
9am-1:30pm: Walk to Lac d’Oô from Les Granges d’Astau - 400–450 m D+ (6-7km) - Moderate
Catered picnic
3pm-5pm: Level up your French!
5:30-6:30: well-being workshop
From 7:30pm: free time - catered dinner
Day 5 - Thursday
9am-10am: stroll through the bustling Arreau market
10:30am-6:30pm: Level up your French - woven into the day
Hike to Lake Sarrouyes from the Col d’Azet (round trip) - 650–750m D+ (10km) - Difficult
Catered picnic
From 7:30pm: free time - catered dinner
Day 2 - Monday
9:30am-12:30: Country walk around Mont and the Chapel of Saint Calixte / 150–300m D+ - Easy to moderate
1pm-2pm: catered lunch
2pm-4pm: Level up your French!
5pm-6:30pm: Exploring Loudenvielle
From 7:30pm: free time - catered dinner
Day 4 - Wednesday
8am-3pm: Level up your French - woven into the day
Hike to Néouvielle - the Orédon mountain hut, Laquettes and the high-altitude lakes - 754m D+ (11km) - Moderate to difficult
Catered picnic
5-7: indulge yourself in Balnea, thermal spa
From 7:30pm: free time - catered dinner
Day 6 - Friday
9am-11am: Walk through the Lapadé Forest and to Courtalets Rock from Val Louron / 300–350m D+ (5km) - Moderate
11:30am -12:30: Level up your French
12:30-2pm: last catered lunch with your tutor.s & guide
From 2: departure
Activities are subject to change depending on weather conditions
The team
Meet your mountain guide
Guillaume Vernejoul
My name is Guillaume Vernejoul, and I have been a qualified mountain leader in the Pyrenees since 2012. For more than ten years, I have specialised in self-reliance, bivouacking and wilderness skills, leading hundreds of courses and outdoor trips. Sharing the mountains, helping people grow in confidence and creating memorable experiences in nature are at the heart of what I do. Last May, Nathalie and her colleague Prisca invited me to introduce the participants of their French immersion programme to our lush Aspe Valley. Coming from the United States, Canada and Sweden, they brought wonderful energy—and it was a real pleasure to share this beautiful corner of the Pyrenees with them. It was also the beginning of a successful partnership with Pyrénées Connexions, which I hope is only the first of many! In 2027, we are changing valley and pace: one beautiful hike each day in the stunning area around Loudenvielle. I can’t wait to welcome you there!
Meet your teacher
Nathalie Bigou
My name is Nathalie Bigou. I have been teaching French as a foreign language for many years, and for the past 20 years I have also been the happy owner of three beautiful gîtes in Béarn. Sharing, teaching and welcoming people have always been at the heart of what I do - through language, culture, meaningful encounters and the places I love. Last year, my colleague Prisca and I had the idea of bringing together my two passions: creating language immersion stays in my gîtes. The first edition was a great success, and we are already preparing the next one! Over the years, I have also developed real expertise in organising stays, and I now want to share this experience with more people in ever-changing settings - each one as beautiful as the last. Living in the breathtaking Hautes-Pyrénées and with a special attachment to the mountains around Loudenvielle, I decided to change the scenery and create a new kind of stay: more active and sporty, but just as warm, friendly and motivating for improving your French. I look forward to welcoming you for five fantastic days!
Description & Pricing
Included
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A minimum of 50 hours of French practice
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5 guided hikes in the magnificent Louron Valley, led by a qualified mountain guide
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2 hours of tailored language development each day, woven into the day
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One or two French teachers, depending on group size
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Visits to typical villages and authentic local experiences
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A two-hour entrance to Balnéa thermal spa
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A yoga, relaxation or well-being workshop
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Comfortable accommodation in a charming gîte
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Full board, including meals, picnic lunches and snacks
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Your teachers and guide by your side throughout the immersion
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Flexibility and adaptation to your needs and objectives
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Administration & organisation fees
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Tea, coffee and “petits gâteaux”!
Excluded
- Shuttle from and to the airport/train station : price on request
- Shuttle service during the stay (outside of the planned activities) : price on request
- Optional activities : yoga class with Anna, Visit to Elodie's garden and flower crafts
- Optional insurance : we strongly advise you to take out insurance covering the duration of your stay in France in order to guarantee a minimum of risks (medical expenses, civil liability, accident and theft).
- Personal expenses
Payment conditions
5-day workshop payment schedule:
Deposit of 40% of the amount at registration. The remaining payment will be due the 3rd of May, 2027.
An invoice will be sent to you at that time.
Cancellation policy
Cancellations made more than 30 days before the start of the stay are eligible for an 80% refund, those made between 15 and 30 days prior for a 50% refund, and those made less than 15 days before the start are non-refundable.
Consult our Booking essentials and the General Terms and Conditions of Sale