Néouvielle

Néouvielle is a mountain massif located in the French Pyrenees, within the departments of Hautes-Pyrénées and Haute-Garonne. It is part of the Néouvielle National Nature Reserve, established in 1977, which protects its unique alpine environment. The massif is characterized by its numerous lakes, often referred to as "lacs d'altitude," and its varied geological formations, including granite outcrops and glacial cirques.

The highest point in the Néouvielle massif is Pic Long, which reaches an elevation of 3,192 meters (10,472 feet). Other notable peaks include Pic Badet, Pic de la Hourquette, and Pic de Batoua. The landscape is shaped by past glaciations, evident in the U-shaped valleys and the presence of many small tarns and larger glacial lakes such as Lac d'Aubert and Lac d'Aumar. These lakes are known for their clear, often turquoise waters, reflecting the surrounding granite peaks and pine forests.

The Néouvielle National Nature Reserve is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a rich array of flora and fauna adapted to the high-altitude conditions. The vegetation includes alpine meadows, scrubland, and coniferous forests, with species like the Pyrenean narcissus and various saxifrages. Wildlife includes the Pyrenean chamois, marmots, and a variety of birds of prey. The area is a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering, with marked trails providing access to its scenic beauty and natural wonders. Its protected status ensures the preservation of its ecological integrity and landscape for future generations.