Barèges is the highest spa resort in France, famous for its sulphur- and sodium-containing springs. Even in the XVth century, wounded soldiers came to benefit from the waters.

In 1922, one of the first Pyrenean ski schools was opened in Barèges, followed in 1939 by the construction of a funicular railway.

Now a renowned ski resort, Barèges has merged with La Mongie to offer the biggest skiing area in the Pyrenees.

Above the village, the Tourmalet pass is best known as the near-annual venue for the Tour de France cycle race.