The chain of the Pyrenees runs west to east, from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea, a natural border between France and Spain. The end of September is perfect timing: the high passes are still free of snow, the summer crowds have all but disappeared, you can have the mountains all to yourself. There were entire days where I didn't cross a soul.
Below is a photo taken at the Lac de Gaube, in the high Pyrenees.
The clouds played hide and seek with me for the first few days, before giving way to days of full sunshine. Below is a lone pine tree at the Riou Pass, its silhouette visible through the fog.
If you're looking for authentic mountain towns, look no farther than the central Pyrenees. This is the tiny town of Grust, a handful of centuries-old homes tightly packed along cobbled streets. The welcome and hospitality in these small towns is second to none.
In the background is the Cirque de Troumousse, a glacier-laden ridgeline that separates France from Spain. One possible walk in the Pyrenees is the GR10 -- a long distance walking trail that crosses the entire chain from Atlantic to Mediterranean, from mountain hut to moutain hut, going through villages as well, 40 days of walking...
The Pyrenees may not be as high as the Alps but the scenery is just as stunning: rolling green hills that stretch into the horizon, slopes dotted with ancient stone farmhouses, flocks of sheep grazing peacefully...
The Gavarnie waterfalls, central Pyrenees. At 420m in height, these are Europe's tallest falls.
Another look at the falls...
