Ustou, France — Guests at a hotel on the slopes of Guzet Ski Resort in the Pyrenees Mountains of France we treated with an incredible wildlife sighting on April 4th, 2026, when a brown bear fresh from hibernation ambled past their balconies.
The original native Pyrenean lineage of brown bears have largely disappeared in the area but the population is stable after program to reintroduce bears from Slovenia was launched in 1996. Recent data suggests over 80 bears now inhabit the broader Pyrenees region as of 2024.
Brown bears safety guidelines in Europe mirror those for their grizzly bear cousins in North America. To stay safe in brown bear country, carry accessible bear spray, make noise to avoid surprises, and store all food/scents in bear-resistant containers. If you encounter a brown bear, stay calm, do not run, and back away slowly. If attacked, play dead by lying flat, covering your neck, and leaving your pack on.
About Guzet Ski Resort:
Guzet Ski Resort is one of the best kept secrets of the Ariège Pyrenees, from the steep slopes of Freychet to the gentle glide of Prat Mataou, skiing is everywhere and is available according to your desires. But what we retain here above all is an intimate atmosphere, a “cocooning” spirit that invites well-being and escape.
- 40 km of trails over 3 sectors
- 3 km of multi-activity trail
- 4 ski touring routes
- 3 snowshoe routes
- 1 Snowpark
- 1 Free ride area
- 1 Beginner area
- 1 Toboggan run
- 1 Slalom stadium
- 1 Snow Garden
- Many services (restaurants, grocery stores, sales and rental stores, ski school, tourist office, daycare, police station, etc.)
