L’Ancienne Poste was founded by James Dealtry
James has an unquenchable thirst for the great outdoors, with nearly 20 years experience guiding and teaching groups in the mountains in both summer and winter, he loves nothing more than sharing his passion for the mountains with others.
With Prices in the Alps Steadily Rising...
With the Alps becoming more and more crowded and expensive both in summer and winter, James decided to create l’Ancienne Poste, a chance to have a real mountain experience away from the crowds whilst exploring an area of France that is relatively undiscovered by the British.
James is a fully qualified French mountain guide and ski instructor
- one of the few foreigners to achieve this status. He previously spent fifteen years in Val d'Isere in the French Alps and was the first Brit to work for the Ecole du Ski Français before relocating to the Pyrenees.
Thanks to his time spent in the Alps
James has learned to speak fluent French and gathered extensive experience in dealing with clients ranging from young families to high-end corporate hospitality. He has worked closely with luxury hotels and chalets.
Full of enthusiasm for all the region has to offer, motivating, energetic and yet easy-going, he has an instinctive understanding of clients' needs on and off the mountain. With attention to detail that is second to none, you can rest assured that every element of your holiday will be taken care of to a very high standard, and with a sense of fun.
Our newest member of the team is Bodie the Cocker Spaniel.
Bodie is full of fun, but has a very gentle and quiet nature and loves children and adults alike! Guests can see as much, or as little of Bodie as they like during their stay, as we do understand that not everyone is a dog lover.
Affordable, Atmospheric and Expertise - the Perfect Combination
With a warm friendly atmosphere, combined with James’ expertise and affordable prices - you can be assured of a fantastic, great value holiday.
schenewerk - Washington DC. July 9, 2018.Perfection in the Pyrenees
We enjoyed the perfect Pyrenees summer vacation at L'Ancienne Poste thanks to James' genuine hospitality, beautiful accommodations, delicious food, ever-flowing wine and Bode. The inn was an excellent home base for exploring mountain hikes and local villages.
Nick W. February 19, 2018Superb!!
Just amazing! Superb chalet with beautiful main room complete with roaring wood burner! Incredible hosts with superb food offering. James, the owner is the most hospitable and friendly guy you could wish to meet. Nothing is too much trouble and you will immediately feel at home.
Robert W. February 19, 2018Perfection
James and his team make you welcome from the outset. Great food and hospitality all round. From the immaculately cleaned wood-burner to the eagle-eyed team who can spot your glass needs a top up from 100 yards, you couldn't ask for more from your mountain break! I'll certainly be returning.
vivandleo. January 11, 2018Holiday of a lifetime!
Our family had always dreamed of travelling from Australia to share a white Christmas and while we were confident we would have a lovely time in Avajan, none of us could have begun to imagine what a magical experience we would have staying with James at L'Ancienne Poste.
bairstow_boys - Nottingham, UK. July 31, 2017Well exceeded our highest expectations
James, Dan and Zoe made us feel amazingly welcome. They were fantastic company and helped us get the most from our summer activity experiences whilst going the extra mile to make us feel pampered. There is so much to do in the area, and James certainly ensures you get the most out of your time
Looking for a Road Cycling or Mountain Biking Holiday in some of the World's most spectacular scenery... Look no further.
It's not just about the biking, we offer Gourmet Food, Fantastic Accommodation, Relaxation and so much more...
Summer Holidays in the PyreneesSkiing, Snowboarding or Ski Touring in some of the World's most spectacular scenery... Look no further.
We offer pyreneean ski holidays combined with Gourmet Food, Great Accommodation, Relaxation and so much more...
Winter Holidays in the PyreneesLocated in the tranquil village of Avajan and the stunning Louron Valley of the Pyrenees, you will find our lovingly restored old village post lodge.
The perfect base from which to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of modern life and enjoy the vast array of outdoor activities immediately available in the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Fantastic accommodation to match the unrivalled road biking, mountain biking and skiing terrain of the French Pyrenees.
Our accommodation is rated 4 stars by the French Ministry of Tourism.
Find out more about our accommodation...
The Avajan LodgeWe're Taking Bookings for Winter 2023/24 and Summer 2024