Parc National des Pyrenees

Created in 1967, the Pyrenees National Park stretches for about 100km (60mi) along the French-Spanish border and covers an area of 460 sq km (180 sq mi) Forested areas make up only 12% of the park, which is streaked by rivulets and brooks fed by both springs and over 2000mm (78in) of annual precipitation, much of which falls as snow. Protected fauna includes the brown bear (only about 15 remain), lynx, chamois, marmot and endangered birds of prey such as the bearded vulture and golden eagle. A big favourite with rock climbers and hikers, the park has 350km (215mi) of trails - some interlinked with trails in Spain - plus a good number of refuges (basic mountain huts) that are open throughout the year. Cauterets, in the eastern portion of the park and 30km (20mi) south of Lourdes, is the easiest and most accessible entry point.