The Pyrenees

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Overview of stepped farmland and Pinnacle of Pic du Jer.

Matt Munro

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Overview

Spiking the skyline for 430km along the Franco-Spanish border, the snow-dusted Pyrenees offer a glimpse of France’s wilder side. This serrated chain of peaks contains some of the country's most pristine landscapes and rarest wildlife, including endangered species such as the griffon vulture, izard (a type of mountain goat) and brown bear. Since 1967, 457 sq km has been protected as the Parc National des Pyrénées, ensuring its valleys, tarns and mountain pastures are preserved for future generations.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Pic du Midi

The Pyrenees

If the Pyrenees has a mustn’t-miss view, it’s the one from the Pic du Midi de Bigorre (2877m). Once accessible only to mountaineers, since 1878 the Pic du…

Grotte de Niaux

The Pyrenees

Most people know about the prehistoric artworks of the Dordogne, but far fewer realise that ancient painters left their mark in caves all across the…

Parc Animalier des Pyrénées

The Pyrenees

Around 12km south of Lourdes, off the D821 near Argelès-Gazost, this fantastic animal park is home to many species that were once commonly sighted across…

Château de Pau

The Pyrenees

Originally the residence of the monarchs of Navarre, Pau’s castle was transformed into a Renaissance château amid lavish gardens by Marguerite…

Grotte du Mas d’Azil

The Pyrenees

Twenty-five kilometres northwest of Foix, near Le Mas d’Azil, this rock shelter is famous for its rich finds of prehistoric tools. Visits are by guided…

Rivière Souterraine de Labouiche

The Pyrenees

Deep beneath the village of Labouiche, 6km northwest of Foix, flows Europe’s longest navigable underground river. Discovered in 1908 by a local doctor, it…

Château de Montségur

The Pyrenees

For the full Monty Python medieval vibe, tackle the steep 20-minute climb to the ruins of this hilltop fortress, 32km east of Foix (and don't forget to…

Musée Bernadotte

The Pyrenees

This townhouse is the birthplace of one of Napoléon’s favourite generals, Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte (nicknamed ‘Sergent belle-jambe’, on account of his…

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

The Pyrenees are known for their spectacular sunsets, ample hiking opportunities and unique landscapes. Here are the top 9 things to do when you visit.

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Plan with a local