Central Pyrenees of Spain

FROM THE PRE-PYRENEES TO THE HEART OF THE PYRENEES

The majestic Pyrenees stretch for more than 400 kilometres across the Spanish regions of Navarre, Aragón and Catalonia, from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, thus acting as a very impressive natural border between Spain and the rest of Europe. This is probably a bit too much for us to cover on just one trip, which is why this 10-day trip focuses on just one area: the central Spanish Pyrenees of Aragón as well as one of Spain’s oldest and most beautiful national parks: the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, the first part (Ordesa) of which was established in 1918.

In addition to its spectacular and unspoilt mountains (no ski lifts, cable cars etc.), the area represents the largest limestone massif in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Global Geopark) characterised by deep glacial valleys, river carved canyons, dramatic limestone walls and balconies, as well as some remarkable natural amphitheatres. All of this is topped with flower-filled meadows, some of the Iberian Peninsula’s most pristine forests, verdant valleys, gurgling brooks, turquoise rivers and raging waterfalls. The area, however, is not limited to its natural wonders, there are also some lovely alpine and medieval villages with traditional stone house replete with cylindrical chimneys and flowering balconies, and, for further measure, we have included a stage in the Pre-Pyrenees, which is where the trip starts after meeting in Zaragoza.

The Sierra de Guara in the Pre-Pyrenees (where we spend the first 2 nights of the trip in an absolute gem of a village!) is an area very rich in prehistoric sites and is characterised by some outstanding canyons and mountains that act as a wonderful approach to the higher range. In the Pyrenees proper, we first stay (4 nights) near the charming town of Torla, which is the main gateway to the national park and serves as an excellent base from which to explore the area. Finally, we move to the most easterly valley of the park, where we spend the last 3 nights in a secluded parador at the head of spectacular glacial u-shaped valley. Throughout the trip, there is the possibility of spotting Egyptian, griffon and/or bearded vultures, as well as golden eagles, and we are very likely to see Pyrenean chamois scampering up the steep mountain slopes. The diversity and beauty of the landscapes we walk amongst is immense, and the footing is surprisingly good, particularly considering that that most of the walking we do is in mountains. 

We stay in just 3 lovely hotels (the last of which is a Parador), all of which are in found in delightful positions and afford great views, as well as great comfort at the end of a day’s walk.

KEY INFORMATION

The fitness level for all trips is classified according to the average distance and elevation gain of the walks offered, with fitness levels ranging from 1-5, see here for more details.