Pyrenees: A magnet for caravan holidaymakers

Last Updated on May 15, 2014 by Jody Halsted

With beautiful natural scenery at every turn and a wealth of things to see and do, it is not hard to recognise why the Pyrenees mountain range has long been a popular holiday hotspot. Come here in a touring caravan and you’ll be well-equipped to see all that this fantastic region has to offer.

Spanning the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees is a melting pot of different cultures, so you can be confident of discovering something that matches your interests.

To have total peace of mind for the duration of your break, you need to have caravan insurance in place. This policy provides vital protection in the event your accommodation suffers accidental damage or is the victim of fire, theft, a storm or flooding during your break and ensures that you don’t suffer financially.

By making one of the numerous caravan sites in this part of southern France the base for your break, you can easily explore the region to the utmost. The charming town of Pau is one place that definitely should be visited, not least of all because of the historic castle – the Chateau de Pau – that sits in the centre. This is where the 16th-century king Henry IV was born and today you can find out more about the monarch and observe intricately-woven tapestries.

Get back to nature by heading to one of Pau’s many gardens and public squares. These include the Royal Square and Renaissance Garden, and at every turn you’ll be greeted by the sight of exotic flowers.

If sport is more your thing don’t worry, a number of international equestrian, cycling, golf and motorsport tournaments take place throughout the year. Pau is also a wonderful place for shopping, and you’ll discover well-known stores and independent boutiques alike to splash the cash on wonderful purchases to take back to your static caravan.

Of course, there is much more to explore on a caravan holiday in the Pyrenees than just Pau. Choosing this destination enables you to escape the stress of modern-day life and, in coming to the Mont Valier Nature Reserve, you can enjoy wonderful walks.

Established in 1937, this is one of the oldest reserves in the region and is dominated by the towering Mont Valier, which stands some 2,838 m above sea level. Walking through the foothills surrounding the peak makes for an exhilarating trek and, while doing so, keep an eye out for the wide-ranging wildlife that call the park home, including golden eagles, ospreys and isards.

Visit the Animal Park at St Michel, meanwhile, and you will see everything from eagles and butterflies to bison and wolves, there are also activities for children. The Pont d’Espagne is another pretty spot you must see during a caravan holiday and this protected area of land allows you to soak up wonderful views of the Marcadau valley, before taking a cable car ride to the picturesque Gaube Lake.

A trip to the Chateau de Montsegur will undoubtedly be the highlight of any caravan break. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic castle has largely fallen into ruin and for a period of time was believed to be home to the Holy Grail. As you wander appreciating the medieval architecture, kids will love imagining what it is like to be the king or queen of their own castle.