The Pyrenees – guide to the Spanish Pyrenees see also hotels in the Spanish Pyrenees

The region of 'North, Central & Pyrenees' takes in a huge slice of Spain, encompassing the regions of Aragon, Castilla-La Mancha, Extremadura, Castilla & LeOn, Rioja, Pals Vasco, Cantabria, Madrid, Asturias and Galicia. Even within these regions there are huge contrasts, geographically, politically and in terms of the property market. The Spanish Pyrenees holds some of the best wildlife habitats in Europe

Obviously Madrid is a big draw for tourists and while there are many Brits who live and work there, it doesn't have the same kind of expat community as, say, Paris or Lisbon . Still, it's a lively city with grand historic buildings and a vibrant, modern feel. In comparison, the regions of AragOn, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla & LeOn and Extremadura are packed with rural villages and towns, most of which have an authentic flavour of real Spain in their traditions, their agriculture and their many religious festivals and fiestas.

The areas of Asturias, Cantabria and Pals Vasco are collectively known as Green Spain, and all along this coast you'll find splendid swathes of sandy beach backed by verdant countryside. This part of Spain is renowned for its child-friendly resorts and its many campsites cater for those families arriving by car through France or by ferry into Bilbao and Santander.

Further into the Pyrenees you will find pretty mountain villages but also many lively ski resorts that come into their own in winter. Even in the summer months, the Pyrenees make a great destination for those into walking, cycling, nature-watching or just relaxing. Out to the west is the region of Galicia famed for its wonderful cuisine and also for the town of Santiago de Compostela where the awe-inspiring cathedral has been the final port of call for the famous Way of Saint Peter pilgrimage throughout the centuries.

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