Refugio Week
- Stay overnight in mountain huts
- Walk the Ordesa and Anisclo canyons
- Ascent of Monte Perdido (3355m)
Staying overnight among the high summits in a mountain hut or 'refugio' is a unique experience and allows us to take you into the wildest areas of the Pyrenees. This week we stay at two of the best-situated refugios in the Pyrenees and explore trails that are out of reach to day-hikers.
Our first hike will be two days in the upper Valle de Tena staying overnight in Refugio Respomuso with views of the impressive Cirque de Piedrafita. As we hike through the cirque on the second day we can take a side trip to Pico Tebbarai (2916m).
Our second three-day hike will take us to the upper reaches of the Ordesa National Park staying two nights at Refugio Goriz in the shadow of Monte Perdido. We'll walk the length of bothe the Ordesa and Anisclo canyons and have a chance to climb Monte Perdido the highest peak in the area at 3355m.
Read previous guests comments or visit our Refugio Week gallery for photo's from recent holidays.
Demanding Hiking
This is a week of demanding hiking with long days and steep ascents of over 1000 metres. Paths will generally be good but there will be some exposed sections and sure-footedness is necessary. You should be capable of walking between six to nine hours a day with approximately 800m to 1200m of ascent.
The ascents are not technical and do not require previous experience. Crampons may be required (particularly in June) but you do not require previous experience and will be instructed on all the necessary techniques during the holiday. For additional safety a qualified local guide will join us for the second day of both hikes.
Accommodation
Three nights will be spent in refugios. They are comfortable and serve 3 course evening meals with wine and beer available. Sleeping arrangements are in large mixed dormitories.
When not in refugios you'll stay in the Hotel Casa Morlans in Panticosa.
Sample Itinerary
This week will explore two areas - the Valley De Tena and the Ordesa National Park. The exact routes will depend on the weather and what the group would like to achieve however they should closely follow the itinerary below.
Sunday
Arrive in Panticosa from Zaragoza late evening. Short briefing with sandwiches and cold meats at Hotel Casa Morlans.
Monday
From Sallent de Gallego we set off along one of the highlights of the GR11 (the Pyrenean long distance path stretching from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic). The trail takes us alongside the waterfalls of the Rio Aguas Limpias (river of clean water) up into the Circo de Piedrafita. Here we stay in Refugio Respomuso beautifully set among several 3000m peaks. On the way we have the option of a side trip to the spectacular Ibones de Arriel.
Tuesday
After an early breakfast we set of from Refugio Respomuso into the wild landscape of Circo de Piedrafita. Our route takes us past several mountain lakes and then through the scarily named 'Cuello de Infierno' (pass of hell). Here we can take an optional side trip to the summit of Tebberai (2916m). From here we start down past the Ibones Azules and to our pick-up at Banos de Panticosa and a well deserved 3-course meal at the Hotel Casa Morlans.
Wednesday
Rest day. Spend a relaxing day in Panticosa, visit one of the nearby attractions such as the Parque Faunistico or we can recommend hiking routes and provide maps for you to do your own days walk. Evening spent in Jaca.
Thursday
The Faja de Pelay is the start for our three day hike in the Ordesa National Park. After an initial steep climb we follow a wide ledge in the sheer cliffs of the Ordesa Valley giving breathtaking views across the valley and of the border peaks. Spend the night at Refugio Goriz beneath Monte Perdido.
Friday
Our objective today is the classic ascent of Monte Perdido (3355m), the third highest peak in the Pyrenees. The summit views overlooking the Ordesa, Pineta and Anisclo canyons and into France are stunning. Steep in places, the route crosses a snow field that often requires the use of crampons. Return to Refugio Goriz for the night.
Saturday
Our walk out is through the neighbouring Anisclo Canyon, another spectacular valley carved into the limestone plateau. We pass thundering waterfalls before reaching our transport back to the Hotel Casa Morlans.
Sunday
Free day to explore Panticosa and it's surroundings. Leave Panticosa late afternoon to catch the evening flight from Zaragoza.
Please note the Refugio's are sometimes fully booked well in advance. Please book early to guarantee your place.
If you would like to attend a Refugio week but can't make these dates please contact us and we will try to arrange alternative dates.
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2010 Dates & Prices |
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Sun 20 - 27 June |
£749 |
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Single supplement £59 |
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What's Included |
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3 nights accommodation in 4 nights accommodation at 6 evening meals and lunches Picnic lunches on walking days 5 days guided hiking Scheduled transfers to/from Zaragoza |
"The Refugio Week was absolutely fantastic. Great walking, spectacular views and good company." Dan, June 2008
Hike Pyrenees
Walking in Spain Hike Pyrenees Ltd Registered No. 6452828 Tel 020 8123 5049 Email info@hikepyrenees.co.uk
Read our guides to:
Ordesa National Park
Flora of the Pyrenees
Loarre Castle
Valle de Tena
Walking gear
San Juan de la Peña