Pyrenees: French v. 2: The Finest Valley and Mountain Walks - ROTH.E4826

The Cirque de Gavarnie in the heart of the "Parc National des Pyrénées" is indisputably the main attraction of the French Central Pyrenees between Val d'Azun in the west and Vallée d'Ustou in the east. Together with the neighbouring Cirques d'Estaubé and Troumouse it was incorporated into the UNESCO list in 1967. Every year countless visitors make a pilgrimage to the head of the valley to see the superb amphitheatre with its magnificently shaped limestone rocks and plummeting waterfalls. However unique the imposing mountain landscape of Gavarnie might be, the other mountain and valley landscapes of the French Central Pyrenees need not fear comparison. Deep green pastures, enchanting forests, foaming torrents, meadows strewn with flowers, delightful mountain lakes, huge valley basins and statuesque peaks like Balaïtous and Vignemale come together at every turn in a captivating region with powerful images and experiences. There are plenty of opportunities for you to become acquainted with and enjoy these fascinating mountain regions on easy paths as well as demanding high mountain trails. There is a broad range of walks in between to suit all abilities and tastes, especially on the GR10 where you will find several of the selected walks in this guide. The 50 walks described here can only offer a representative selection of the wealth of trails available, but they will hopefully make the choice much easier and give hikers the opportunity to discover the scenic richness of the French Central Pyrenees in whatever way they choose.