The Pyrenees

The Pyrénées are fantastic. Dont underestimate the scale, beauty and atmosphere of this mountain range. Less developed than the Alps, the wildness and untamed beauty of the Pyrenees are within easy striking distance of Retreat au Chateau's holiday accommodation. We are less than an hour's drive from some of the most spectacular scenery that France, and indeed Europe, has to offer. And after a good day's exercise you might enjoy some gentle yoga, a massage, or one of our full body wraps.

The mountains to the west are the Basque Country steeped in tradition, whilst the craggy centre nearest to the retreat has the most beautiful peaks (over 3000m) and lots of snow; the east is more distant but manageable on longer daytrips to see its Catalan and Mediterranean influences.

A highly recommended daytrip is to the Pic-du-Midi less than an hour away from your holiday accommodation. The drive is worth it in itself, passing through dramatic Pyrenean valleys rising up to the pass at Bareges. From here it is an easy (though uphill) 3 hour walk to the summit, crowned by the observatory, a scientific and astronomy research centre used as the setting for a James Bond film. It is also a visitor centre and well worth the climb. You can also reach the peak by cable car, so those who can't make the ascent on foot can still enjoy the incredible views from the top.

The Parc Nationale des Pyrénnées Occidentales (National Park) is an hours drive and is one of the best in Europe, with conservation programmes that ensure the future of several unique species. Species that you might see here include The Isard, The Marmot, The Bear, The Capercaillie, The Ptarmigan, The Black Woodpecker, The Desman, The Lammergaier or Bearded Vulture, The Griffon Vulture, The Peregrine Falcon, The Egyptian Vulture, The Golden Eagle, rainbow trout, Alpine charr, brook charr, Canadian charr and the amazing Natterjack Toad! All in all it is an area of exceptional natural heritage and astounding beauty without barriers or fences... the animals are totally free and usually completely wild!

For more information: Pyrenees National Park Head Office, 59 route de Pau, 65000 Tarbes. Telephone: (011 33) 5 62 44 36 60 Fax: (011 33) 5 62 44 36 70