In reply to Alun:
> It alludes a few times as to why Targassonne is not as popular as some think it should be. I've spent quite a lot of time there and I think the best way to describe it is 'unfriendly'. The rock is horribly sharp, the problems (and even many of the sectors) are generally quite difficult to find, and the grades a bit stiff (particularly at the lower end of the scale). Also, I think a lot of people hear "second in France only to Fontainebleau", and are disappointed when they realise that "second" doesn't necessarily mean "similar" - Font is in a completely different league, if only because the amount of climbing available.
To expand on this, in terms of comparisons with the UK, the rock is probably most similar to Dartmoor granite, or that found in Eskdale. It's exceedingly rough, but strangely doesn't have great friction. It favours those that can crimp. You tend to have to 'bear down', rather than 'drag' holds. In terms of the comparison with Fontainebleau, it would be like comparing the Mendips with the Himalayas (well, not quite). I've probably spent 4 - 6 months in Font over the years, and will continue to go there every year. Whilst I can imagine going back to Targasonne, it wouldn't be simply because of the bouldering. I agree the grades are generally pretty stern, though there are some soft touches as well.
> Finally, there is something harsh and austere about the Pyrenean environment in general; it lacks the charm of pootling around the forest, and is far from the beauty of typical alpine landscapes.
This is where I disagree. I thought the area was absolutely stunning and far more interesting than Font. Font is 'charming', but it's very samey and there are few places where you get a view. The views from Targasonne are superb. The air quality was outstanding most of the time we were there. I got into the higher peaks one day (there's a chain of 2800-2900m high summits accessible from the village) and it feels very remote, with few trails (the odd cairn), but terrain that's relatively easy to navigate in good weather.