Staying in a mountain Refugio (mountain hut), surrounded by high peaks, allows us to venture into some of the wildest terrain in the Pyrenees. We'll explore two of the most beautiful areas in the region with the option to scale a 3000 metre peak.

Our first hike will be two days in the dramatic Circo de Piedrafita staying at Refugio Respomuso. A 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 Mount Perdido.

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 expect days of between five to nine hours walking with approx. 800-1100 metres of ascent.

Accommodation

Accommodation is in refugio's and the family run Hotel Casa Morlans in Panticosa. The refugios are very comfortable and serve 3 course evening meals with wine and beer available. Sleeping arrangements are in large mixed dormitories.

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 but should closely follow the following itinerary.

Sunday

Arrive in Panticosa from Zaragoza in mid afternoon. Free time to explore the village and surrounds. Briefing in evening and meal at Hotel Casa Morlans.

Monday

From Sallent de Gallego we set off along one of the highlights 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 amongst the 3000m peaks. On the way we have the option of a side trip to the spectacular Ibones 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 Tebberay (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 Faunistica or we can recommend hiking routes and provide maps for you to do your own days walk.

Thursday

The Ordesa Valley contains one of the most spectacular paths in Europe - the Faja de las Flores and this is the start for a great 3 day hike. A narrow balcony cut into the sheer cliffs of the Ordesa valley the 'Faja' gives breathtaking views of the valley floor a dizzying 1000m below. We then head for Refugio Goriz at the head of the valley and beneath Mount Perdido.

Friday

From Refugio Goriz there are a number of tempting routes. Monte Perdido (3335m) the highest peak in the area and the third tallest in the Pyrenees stands in easy reach. Steep in places the route crosses a snow field that usually requires the use of crampons. El Tallon at 3144m and with gentler gradients is another worthy objective. This route also gives you the chance to stand in the famous Breche de Roland. Back to Refugio Goriz for the night.

Saturday

Today we walk out down the neighbouring Anisclo canyon. The valley walls gets sheerer as the canyon eats it's way deeper and deeper into the limestone plateau. We pass thundering waterfalls before finally reaching the end of the canyon and our transport back to the Hotel Casa Morlans.