The Pyrenees mountain range is
extremely popular with hikers, as it can boast some truly stunning scenery,
great trails, and a variety of terrains. Popular routes include the GR10, a
fairly easy-going route which spans the entire Pyrenees from East to West, and
the Haute Randonnee Pyreneenne (HRP), which spans the same 700 kilometre
distance from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean over much more difficult
terrain. This route is recommended only for experienced hikers.
The hiking season in the Pyrenees
lasts from the middle of June until the end of September, as the mountains are
mostly covered with snow from October to around May. Weather conditions are
fairly unpredictable, and some hiking experience is recommended before you
tackle even some of the easier routes. Always follow the weather forecasts, and
make sure you have good maps, a compass, and plenty of food and water with you
in case you get stranded. If you are in any doubt, it is better to turn back
rather than risk getting lost or stranded.
The Parc National des Pyrenees
Occidentales in the central Pyrenees is about a hundred kilometres long, and
runs along the border with Spain. This nature reserve was set up in 1967 to
protect this absolutely stunning area from the ravages of the tourist industry.
In comparison with the hugely overdeveloped French Alps, this section of the
Pyrenees is an oasis of unspoiled nature, with over two hundred lakes, twelve
valleys, forests, flowers, streams, and wildlife to marvel at. There is a ban
on hunting, and you are not allowed to take dogs there, and this means that
endangered species such as the golden eagle and the brown bear can still be
seen in this area from the tops of the mountains. Some of these mountains are
over three thousand feet tall, and offer some very impressive views, but if you
are not in the mood for serious mountaineering, you can always take a light
stroll round the flowery meadows near the town of Bareges. If you fancy taking
a hiking trip around the Pyrenees, you may be pleased to learn that there are
plenty of cheap
flights to Spain available on the Monarch website.
