The Pyrenees

The Pyrenees is a group of mountains in western Europe. The range stretches for about 300 miles. It forms a natural wall between the countries of France and Spain. The tiny country of Andorra sits high up in the mountains.

A Natural Border

The Pyrenees separates France from Spain. Long ago, the mountains made travel between the two countries very hard. Today, roads and trains cross the range through tunnels. The highest peak is called Aneto and is over 11,000 feet tall. Snow covers the tops of the mountains in winter.

Animals and Plants

Lots of wildlife lives in the Pyrenees. Brown bears, wolves, and wild goats roam the forests. A special bird called the bearded vulture flies over the peaks. Green valleys are full of flowers in spring. People hike and ski in the mountains all year long.

Fun Facts

• The Pyrenees is home to the country of Andorra.
• The word 'Pyrenees' comes from an old Greek story.
• The mountains formed millions of years ago when two huge pieces of Earth pushed together.

Did You Know?

A special kind of dog called the Great Pyrenees comes from these mountains and was used to guard sheep from bears and wolves.