Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Ordesa National Park, home to the stunning Great Canyon – the most striking gorge in the Spanish Pyrenees. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Valle de Pineta, nestled at the foot of the iconic Monte Perdido, as you hike through lush beech, oak, and maple forests that burst into vibrant autumn colors. This alpine hiking experience offers a perfect blend of challenge and serenity, making it suitable for adventurers of all ages. Explore well-marked trails that lead you through breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy the comfort of cozy mountain hotels offering family rooms for a restful stay. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a family looking to connect with nature, Ordesa's majestic views and picturesque paths promise a journey you'll never forget!
Itinenary:
Day 1. Arrival in Torla
Travel to the heart of the Pyrenees and arrive in the charming mountain village of Torla, beautifully nestled in a seemingly remote setting yet offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. After your journey, unwind and settle into your hotel, where you can enjoy the luxury of a private swimming pool, a delightful restaurant, a cozy bar, and a comfortable lounge – all designed for a perfect, relaxing stay. Let the stunning surroundings and excellent amenities set the tone for an unforgettable adventure ahead. -/-/D
Day 2. Choice of walks from Bujaruelo (9.5 - 13 km / 6 - 8 mi)
Start your week with a short drive to the medieval bridge at Puente Bujaruelo, an iconic stone arch spanning turquoise currents, marking the beginning of your adventure in Ordesa. If you're in the mood for a more leisurely day, enjoy a relaxing stroll along a Land Rover track into Valle de Otal, soaking in the serene landscape. For those seeking a true alpine experience, embark on a hike to the French border, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views over the pristine waters of Ibón de Bernatuara. B/-/D
Challenge: Ibon de Bernatuara: 9.5 km (6 mi) / 11 km (7 mi), 1000 m ascent and descent, 5 / 5.5 hrs; Torla: 11 km (7 mi), 250 m ascent, 500 m descent, 4 hrs; Valle de Otal: 13 km (8 mi), 300 m ascent and descent, 4 hrs
Day 3. The Great Canyon of Ordesa (18 - 25.5 km / 11.2 - 15.8 mi)
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure through one of the most iconic trails in Ordesa. Begin with a 700-meter zig-zag ascent to Mirador Calcilarruego, reaching an elevation of 1950 meters, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views. Continue along the Senda de los Cazadores, an incredible path offering panoramic vistas of the Great Canyon of Ordesa, framed by the majestic, snow-capped peaks in the distance. For those who prefer a gentler route, you can take a return walk to the "Cola de Caballo" waterfall along the wide path that runs parallel to the river. For an added challenge and stunning mountain views, extend your hike to Refugio de Goriz, a mountain hut at 2200 meters. B/-/D
Full hike: 18 km (11.8 mi), 7.5 hrs, 800 m ascent and descent; Easier walk (Cola de Caballo): 18 km (11.2 mi), 6 hrs, 500 m ascent and descent; Extension to Goriz: +6.5 km (4 mi), +2.5 hrs, +450 m ascent and descent
Day 4. Choice of Walks from Torla (10 - 14 km / 6 - 9 mi)
Today offers a choice of stunning hikes, all starting from Torla. Head east and hike upwards to enjoy panoramic vistas that stretch over the Bujaruelo and Ordesa Valleys, with sweeping views that will leave you in awe. If you prefer a more relaxed day or the weather isn't ideal for a longer trek, opt for a shorter, peaceful walk through three charming villages that seem frozen in time: Fragen, Oto, and Broto. B/-/D
Ermita San Antón: 14 km (9 mi), 6 hrs, 850 m ascent, 900 m descent; Fragen, Oto & Broto: 10 km (6 mi), 4 hrs, 230 m ascent and descent
Day 5. Añisclo Gorge before Moving to Bielsa (16 km / 9.9 mi)
Today, you’ll bid farewell to Torla and journey east to the Parador de Bielsa, located in the heart of the Monte Perdido region. En route, take a detour to the picturesque village of Nerín and explore the stunning Añisclo Gorge, a deep canyon carved into the rock, nourished by streams that keep it lush and green throughout the year. Start your day early, as the scenic drive along the winding N-260 mountain road can be time-consuming. Make sure to stop in the medieval town of Ainsa, perched on a cliff above the confluence of the Ara and Cinca rivers. This historic town center, declared a Historic-Artistic site in 1965, is a must-see before continuing your journey. B/-/D
Hike: 16 km (9.9 mi), 750 m ascent and descent, 6 hrs
Day 6. Ibon de Marboré or Pineta Valley Walk (14 or 9.5 km / 9 or 6 mi)
Today offers two incredible hiking options, depending on your adventure level. For a challenging and breathtaking alpine experience, take on the steep ascent to the glacier lake Ibon de Marboré, nestled in the rugged, moon-like limestone landscape beneath Monte Perdido. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed hike, enjoy a scenic walk through the tranquil woods of Pineta Valley, passing the stunning Larri waterfall. B/-/D
Challenge: 14.3 km (8.9 mi), 1325 m ascent and descent, 7.5-8 hrs OR 9.6 km / 6 mi, 525 m ascent and descent; 4.5 hr
Day 7. End of Tour OR Optional Ascent of Pico Mondoto (7.7 - 14.2 km / 7.8 - 8.8 mi)
Today marks the end of your tour, but if you’ve booked extra nights at the Parador or have some time to spare, there’s still an amazing hike to experience. We recommend driving to the village of Espierba and embarking on a loop walk, with the option to ascend the 700 meters to Pico Mondoto. At 1835 meters, Mondoto offers breathtaking 360º views of both Ordesa and the towering peaks along the French border. B/-/-
Challenge: 7.7 km, 625 m acent and descent; 4 hrs + optional 6.5 km, 700 m ascent/descent, 4 hrs)
PRACTICAL INFO
IMPORTANT to point out that this is a self-guided tour to do the routes independently with documentation and maps. We recommend you bring your own car or rent one.
You can start on any day of the week, subject to availability, between May and October.
Nearest airports to Ordesa are Zaragoza airport (ZAZ), Bilbao airport (BIO), Barcelona El Prat (BCN), Girona airport (GRO). You can also arrive to France via Pau-Pyrénées airport (PUF) or Toulouse-Blagnac airport
Arrival in Torla
Public transport: If you decide to travel by public transport to Ordesa, we recommend hiring a car in either Jaca, in Spain, or Pau or Tarbes in France
If you do not want to drive yourself, a transfer package can be booked (price on request; depending on number of persons and arrival/departure station).
Rental car: This trip is designed as a self-drive trip in which you will need a car in order to get to the starting point for each walk. Ordesa region is quite isolated and it is therefore difficult to reach by local transport. If you don't want to hire a car, we can quote an optional transfer package, indicating what will be your arrival/departure airport or trainstation.
GPS tracks are available on request.
Lunches: pack lunches can be bought in the villages or ordered directly at your accommodation
Shuttle bus from Torla to the park entrance during summer,when the car park is closed (approx. 7 euros p.p.)
extra transfers etc.
Rental car or optional transfer package for those who want to travel to Ordesa by public transport
710 €, 7 Days
Verified