Take a look at the protected areas

The protected areas of the Pays Toy

In the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées, the Pays Toy is home to exceptional natural areas renowned for their ecological and scenic richness.

From the Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve to the protected Néouvielle massif and the Natura 2000 sites, the region is actively committed to preserving biodiversity and mountain habitats.

These complementary initiatives promote a remarkable environment whilst balancing nature conservation with sustainable human activities.

OUR NATURE RESERVES AND NATURE PARKS

The Néouvielle Nature Reserve, situated in the Pays Toy, is a protected area renowned for its mountain landscapes and rich natural heritage. Here you’ll discover a varied environment, ranging from mountain pine forests to alpine meadows and rocky areas, which is home to elusive wildlife such as marmots, chamois and birds of prey, as well as flora adapted to the high altitude, including alpine flowers and rare plants.

One of the reserve’s most remarkable features is its numerous high-altitude lakes, numbering over 70. Of glacial origin, they boast crystal-clear waters with shifting hues, ranging from deep blue to pale green depending on the light. Some are easily accessible and offer superb panoramic views, whilst others, more secluded, immerse you in a wild, unspoilt atmosphere.

These lakes play a vital role in the ecosystem by providing a habitat for specific species and contributing to the region’s natural balance. The Néouvielle is therefore an ideal place to discover the diversity and fragility of mountain environments.

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In the Pays Toy, you find yourself at the heart of an exceptional region where nature reveals itself with such vigour and diversity. The 14 Natura 2000 sites in the Gaves Valleys bear witness to this remarkable richness, with high-altitude meadows, forests, rivers and mountain peaks, all home to a precious wealth of biodiversity.

Here, conservation does not mean freezing things in time. Local activities, such as pastoralism, play a vital role in maintaining the balance of these environments. As you walk through the area, you too become part of this dynamic: by respecting the surroundings, you help to protect this unique natural heritage.

Take the time to observe, to discover… and let yourself be amazed by the beauty and fragility of these landscapes.

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The Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve covers a vast, unspoilt area. Its core area, covering 620 km², is completely free of artificial lighting: no residents, no light pollution, just a pure, unspoilt night sky. Accredited in 2013 by the International Dark-Sky Association, it became the first reserve of its kind in mainland Europe.

Surrounding it, a buffer zone comprises 246 local authorities committed to reducing their night-time lighting. Here, residents and local authorities are taking practical steps to restore a high-quality starry sky, whilst adopting more sustainable practices.

Across the region, you can take part in activities, stargazing sessions and events to rediscover the beauty of the night sky and gain a better understanding of the challenges involved in preserving it.

Because light pollution does more than just hinder astronomers: it disrupts wildlife, affects your health, wastes energy and robs us of the magic of starry nights. Taking action means preserving a unique natural heritage… and giving you back access to a sky full of stars.

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ZOOM ON The National Park and Valley Centre

The National Park and Valley Centre, located in Luz-Saint-Sauveur (Place Saint-Clément), hosts exhibitions, talks and film screenings on topics relating to the various parks and reserves.

The National Park regularly organises talks on the environment and the work carried out within our area.