Alberes

Alberes is a mountain range located in the northeastern Iberian Peninsula, forming a natural border between France and Spain. It stretches for approximately 60 kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Mediterranean Sea in the east. The range is part of the larger Pyrenees mountain system. The Alberes are characterized by their relatively low altitudes, with the highest peak, Pic Neulos, reaching 1,256 meters.

The landscape of the Alberes is diverse, featuring rugged rocky peaks, dense forests, and open pastures. The southern slopes, facing Spain, are drier and more Mediterranean in character, with scrubland and cork oak forests. The northern slopes, in France, are wetter and more verdant, supporting beech and pine forests. The region is known for its rich biodiversity, with a variety of flora and fauna, including wild boar, deer, and numerous bird species.

Historically, the Alberes have served as a strategic passage and a defensive barrier. Several ancient paths and Roman roads traverse the range, facilitating trade and movement between the two regions. During times of conflict, the mountains provided refuge and a natural defense. Today, the Alberes are a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and nature tourism, attracting visitors to its scenic trails and panoramic views. The range also holds cultural significance, with remnants of ancient settlements and megalithic structures scattered throughout.