Organization of hikes Central Pyrenees
Since its creation in 1967, the main aim of the Pyrenees National Park has been to protect the incredible natural heritage and biodiversity of the region. Completely uninhabited, it reaches over an area of 45,000 hectares and stretches 100 km from east to west at an altitude of approximately 1000 m. The Park spreads over the Pic du Midi d’Ossau, Balaïtous, Vignemale and Néouvielle Mountains and from the valleys of Aspe and Ossau in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques to the well-known glacial valleys of the Hautes Pyrénées, including Cauterets, Luz-Gavarnie and Aure.
Virtually untouched landscapes with deep historical roots are waiting to be explored! The unique geology of the area (with a combination of limestone and granite) has led to the formation of some 250 glistening mountain lakes, surrounded by such colourful vegetation because of the Atlantic and Mediterranean climates. Although a protected area, these vast open spaces, or “Vallées de Gave”, remain both accessible and safe for novice and experienced hikers alike because of the highly maintained and signposted footpaths.