Crossing from Spain into France via the Biesla tunnel was a breeze. This is a single road tunnel 19 kms long and 1820 metres high. The descent seemed to go on forever including a stop for a flock of sheep in the road.
Found a campsite in St Lary-Soulan which is quite a small village but a popular ski resort -not at the moment eh.
The next day drove along a scenic route over col Peyresourde 1569 metres to Bagneres- de- Luchon.
I had planned to stay at the aires there by the river but it looked too busy.
It is a pleasant spa town with some grand 19th century architecture.
The lady in the tourist office suggested a 12 kms excursion to Hospice de France where there are various trail heads. There were wonderful views and I did a short walk. Sacha was much bemused by the antics of two tame donkeys who were begging for food in the restaurant terrace and later rolling in the dust.
Back in Luchon I paid a visit to the baths. There is a 160 metre long natural steam bath and a pool with various jets. Just what I needed.
In the village of St Mamet I had seen a little, official, but not in the book aires. All very pretty with flowers between the stands. It was nice and quiet until other campers arrived late. They next morning, taking Sacha for a walk by a garden, I started talking to a couple who do bike tours and she was a mountain bike champion who did online coaching. The company was called 'Quick Release'.