The Pyrenees is one of Europe's major mountain chains, running from the Bay of Biscay near Biarritz east almost to the Mediterranean. Near Prades the range divides and the southern arm known as the Albères reaches the coast in the vicinity of Port Vendres. The northern arm is crowned by the Canigou, which at 2780m dominates the Prades valley and indeed the whole of the Roussillon plain. It is regarded almost as a sacred mountain by the Catalã,a sort of Fujiyama, and a symbol of a lost era when Catalunya was one united country.

Further west beyond the highest military base in France at Mont Louis lies the Capcir, the Lake District of the Pyrenees, dominated by the Carlit massif.

The Pyrenees offer all that's best in walking: fantastic scenery, great places to stay, good weather and, above all, variety. Serious trekkers will relish the chance to seek out the unexplored valleys of the high mountains. Those who prefer an easier pace can stay closer to civilization, enjoying the culture and history of the area through which they are walking.

The Pyrenees can provide the best of both worlds. There's a wide variety of other activities too. If you like to break the day's trek for an hour or two, there are literally hundreds of perfect lakes in which to cool your feet or to swim. The ancient romanesque churches are worth a visit in their own rights. The Pyrenees is a place where there is still scope to explore an area of untouched natural beauty.