The Pyrenees Travel

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• published: 10 Aug 2014
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The Pyrenees in Catalonia encompass some awesomely beautiful mountains and valleys. Above all, the Parc Nacional d’Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici, in the northwest, is a jewel-like area of lakes and dramatic peaks. The area’s highest mountain, the Pica d’Estats (3143m), is reached by a spectacular hike (suitable only for experienced hikers) past glittering glacial lakes. On arrival at the top, you enjoy a privileged point with 360-degree views over France and Spain. As well as the natural beauty of the mountains, and the obvious attractions of walking, skiing and other sports, the Catalan Pyrenees and their foothills have a rich cultural heritage, notably the countless lovely Romanesque churches and monasteries, often tucked away in remote valleys. They are mainly the product of a time of prosperity and optimism in this region in the 11th and 12th centuries, after Catalonia had broken ties with France in 988 and as the Muslim threat from the south receded. You may find that some villagers are wary of outsiders as the hand of Franco’s retribution reached deep into these rural parts after the Civil War. When looking for a place to kip, keep an eye out for cases rurales or cases de pagés (country houses converted into accommodation), usually set in old village houses and peppered across the Pyrenees. The annual Guia d’Establiments de Turisme Rural guide, published by the Generalitat (regional Catalan government), covers most of them. Enjoy Your The Pyrenees Travel!