The mountains of the 45,700 hectare Pyrenees National Park may not have the international recognition of the Alps, but woe be to the adventurer who underestimates the magnitude of these peaks and valleys. Situated along the mountainous Franco-Spanish border, this protected region is still home to some 80+ mountain villages, providing visitors with a glimpse of the mining and pastoral living that was once so prevalent among European countries.
Still with us? Great. Take a day and tackle a rugged hike or climb up the park's beautiful snow capped peaks, including the Cirque de Gavarnie, with it's incredible 422 meter waterfall, and Vignemale, the highest summit in the French Pyrenees at 10,820 ft (3,298 meters). Looking for something a little different? There are more than a few via feratta and canyoning routes to tackle, with plenty of adventure companies willing to show you the ropes. Skiing is also available (see our links), for anyone visiting during the less popular winter months. And with an in-park railroad that is said to be the highest in Europe, it's almost as if this national park has thought of everything.