Discover Ordesa

Q: Can I arrive by train instead of flying?

Yes. High-speed AVE trains from Madrid and Barcelona arrive at Zaragoza Delicias. Please ensure you arrive in Zaragoza Delicias for the midday transfer.

Explore the spectacular Ordesa National Park

Dual level guided holiday

Choose from two hikes each day - an easier and a harder option

Wonderful cliff hugging paths

And alpine meadows for those who prefer their feet on solid ground

Discover Ordesa

Wonderful cliff hugging paths

Dual level guided holiday

Guided hiking

7 nights

Dual level

Single centre

Guided walking holiday in Ordesa National Park

7-Night Discover Ordesa guided walking holiday

Explore one of the most spectacular corners of the Spanish Pyrenees on a guided walking holiday in the Ordesa National Park. Based in the mountain village of Torla, you’ll discover dramatic canyons, high‑valley meadows and quiet woodland trails with an experienced local guide who knows the area inside out. Each day offers a different perspective on the park’s famous landscapes, from the vast Circo de Soaso to the viewpoints above the Añisclo Canyon, with walks chosen to suit the conditions and the group. It’s a fantastic way to experience the beauty and variety of Ordesa at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.

Overview

7 night guided walking holiday
Dual level - two guided walks offered each day
Magnificent hiking in the Ordesa National Park
4* hotel with pool

The spectacular Ordesa National Park is one of the highlights of the Pyrenees. This guided walking holiday explores the incredible diversity of the park, from it’s deep canyons to it’s high alpine meadows.

Walking Faja de las flores Ordesa National Park

We offer two guided walking options each day -a lower level (grade 1 or 2) walk and a higher level option (grade 3 or 4). Perfect if you fancy doing a couple of longer walks but don’t want to commit to a whole week of long hikes or for couples where one partner likes to walk farther than the other.

The holiday is based at the four star Hotel Ordesa which is ideally located for walkers at the entrance to the Ordesa Valley just outside Torla. The hotel has excellent facilities including an outdoor pool and garden area.

The Ordesa Valley is Spain’s oldest protected area and was made a UNESCO world heritage site in 1996 due to it’s incredible diversity of flora and fauna with many rare species found there including the lammergeier and the illusive desman.

Itinerary

These walks explore the Ordesa National Park and it’s immediate surroundings. This is a sample itinerary and the exact routes will depend on conditions and the kind of walks the group would like to do.

Sunday -Torla

Arrive in Torla from Zaragoza in the evening. On arrival we’ll have a short briefing over a snack.

Monday

Low level: Camino de Turieto
A superb introduction to the area along a quiet, ancient path from straight from the hotel into the Ordesa Valley passing through beautiful beech woods with excellent views of the cliffs of Ordesa.
Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles). Ascent: +/- 400 (1320 feet)

High level: Faja Racon Faja Rascon Ordesa National Park
Wonderful hike around the base of the cliffs of Ordesa. First we climb into the Circo de Corrieta before contouring around the cliffs. One of the best hikes for getting a sense of the scale of the valley.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles). Ascent: +/- 600 m (1970 feet)

Tuesday

Low level: Valle de Otal
Starting at Bujaruelo we turn into a hanging valley to discover a beautiful high alpine meadow where we find fields of alpine forget-me-nots and some of the rarer orchids and fritillaries.
Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles). Ascent: +/- 400 m (1320 feet)

Discover Ordesa Guided Walking Holiday

High level: Ordiso/Otal circuit
This wonderful circular walk takes in two hanging valleys linked by a high pass. Great views north to Vignemale and east to the peaks of Gabieto.
Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles). Ascent: +/- 800 m (2630 feet)

Wednesday

Low level: The Ordesa Valley
A walk along the floor of the Ordesa Valley. We pass through ancient beech and silver pine woods, past several waterfalls, with the sheer cliffs of Ordesa rising above us on both sides. The woodland gives way to give fantastic views of the 3000m Monte Perdido at the head of the valley.
Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles). Ascent: +/- 450 m (1480 feet)

Faja Rascon Ordesa Valley

High level: Ordesa - Faja de Pelay
A steep climb leads us to a spectacular path high on the cliffs of Ordesa. Stunning views of the Breche de Roland, the string of 3000m peaks on the border and Monte Perdido.
Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles). Ascent: +/- 750 m (2460 feet)

Thursday - Rest Day

Aínsa square - Plaza Mayor -

Around 10 am, we’ll meet and drive to the nearby town of Ainsa, mediaeval town lies at the convergence of the Ara and Cinca rivers. It’s fascinating old quarter sits perched upon a hilltop with commanding views of the countryside and of the cliffs of Peña Montañesa.
We’ll visit the Ecomuseum to learn about the bearded vulture conservation program and the Pyrenean wildlife. Following this we’ll visit the church of Santa Maria, have some free time in the town and finish with a tapas lunch before heading back to Torla.

Friday

Low level: The Añisclo Canyon
Another of the parks spectacular valleys. Waterfalls cascade down the steep cliffs that rise on each side of the canyon. We walk through woodland alongside the Rio Bellós watching overhead for griffon vultures and perhaps a lammergeier circling on the thermals.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles). Ascent: +/- 500 m (1640 feet)

High level: Pelopín
From the hotel we climb through woods and alpine meadows to a peak with superb views into the Ordesa valley and over the string of 3000m peaks on the French border.
Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles). Ascent: +/- 750 m (2460 feet)

Saturday

Low level: The rim of Ordesa
A 4x4 takes us high into the meadows above the Ordesa Canyon. From there we walk along the rim of the canyon for spectacular views before catching the 4x4 back down to the hotel.
Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles). Ascent: +/- 300 m (990 feet)

Discover Ordesa Guided Walking Holiday

High level: Ordesa and Añisclo
Taking a 4x4 for over 1200m ascent allows us to first walk above the Ordesa Valley before crossing over alpine meadows to the Añisclo Canyon for more spectacular views. An absolutely stunning day with birds-eye views throughout.
Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles). Ascent: 460 m (1510 feet), descent: 1330 m (4360 feet)

Sunday - Torla

Leave Torla after breakfast for your transfer back to Zaragoza airport or train station.

Discover Ordesa Dates & Prices

2026

Sunday 14 - 21 June
Sunday 5 - 12 July (fully booked)
Sunday 6 - 13 September

Price

1799 € per person (based on two sharing a double or twin room)
200 € single supplement

Included

7 nights in 4* Hotel Ordesa
5 days fully guided walking (choice of two walks each day)
7 x Breakfast each morning
5 x Picnic lunches each walking day
6 x 3 course evening meals each night (excluding rest day)
Transfers to and from Zaragoza train station or airport and to the walks each day

Not included

Flights, insurance, drinks with evening meal and lunch and evening meal on the rest day

Getting to the Pyrenees

Transfers are included from Zaragoza train station or airport.

There are direct flights from London Stansted to Zaragoza with Ryan Air, on Sundays and our airport transfers are timed to meet this flight.

Sunday flight times are as follows:
Depart Stansted 6:20, arrive Zaragoza 9:35
Depart Zaragoza 10:10, arrive Stansted 11:15

We pick up from Zaragoza Delicias train station at 12:00 midday and drop off the following Sunday at 11:45 am.

12 Midday Arrival Transfer
Trains that fit well with our 12:00 transfer are:
RENFE trains – the traditional rail company
Depart Barcelona 9:55, arrive Zaragoza 11:38
Depart Madrid 10:27, arrive Zaragoza 11:47

Iryo trains – a new train service, very similar service to RENFE, website more user-friendly
Depart Barcelona 9:50, arrive Zaragoza 11:13
Depart Madrid 9:57, arrive Zaragoza 11:17

11:45 am Departure Transfer
RENFE train – Depart Zaragoza 12:52, arrive Barcelona 14:46
Iryo trains – Depart Zaragoza 12:41, arrive Barcelona 14:14
RENFE train – Depart Zaragoza 12:26, arrive Madrid 13:52

Please note train times can vary depending on the dates but these train times usually run every Sunday.

For more details of our transfers please see our getting here page. If you need help buying train tickets, please drop us an email and we can help.

Hotel

4* Hotel Ordesa

The holiday is based in the Hotel Ordesa just outside of Torla - a superb location on the borders of the national park with views into the valley.

The four star hotel has excellent facilities including a restaurant, café bar, reading room and a comfortable lounge with card tables and a log fire.There is a mixture of twin, doubles and family rooms all with en-suite bathrooms.

The Hotel Ordesa has a spa with a steam room, jacuzzi and an on-site masseuse with a full range of treatments available (there is a charge for use of the spa facilities).

Three course meals are served in the restaurant each evening and you have a choice of starters, main course and dessert. On the evening of the rest day we visit Ainsa for tapas. Lunch and evening meal on the rest day is not included.

The hotel is in a tranquil location 15 minutes walk from the village of Torla.

The Ordesa National Park

The Ordesa Valley was pronounced a national park by Royal Decree on the 13 July 1918 and is the oldest protected area in Spain.

Initially the park was just 21 square kilometres.

In 1982 the parks borders were extended to include the Añisclo Canyon, the Perdido massif and the head of the Pineta Valley increasing the protected area to 156 square kilometres.

The park became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 in recognition of it’s diverse flora and fauna and it’s outstanding natural beauty.

Torla

Known as the gateway to Ordesa Torla makes an ideal base from which to explore the national park.

Torla’s a pretty village with stone houses, small plazas and it’s winding streets have the cliffs of Ordesa as a backdrop. There’s a good choice of bars, restaurants, shops and a small supermarket.

The church of San Salvador is the most important historical monument in Torla. It’s origins are Romanesque with the tower and west walls dating from the 13th century. During 16th century the church was expanded to meet the demands of the growing population of the village.

Records from this time give details of rich decorations in the church such as an altarpiece dedicated to San Miguel and a large gothic cross. Unfortunately all these were destroyed during the Spanish Civil War (1936-39) and currently the church has baroque decorations dating from the 17th and 18th century.

Alongside the church is a small ‘castle’ - now not much more than a fortified house. The castle began as a defensive tower that was built in the late 13th century to guard against attacks from France.

The tower stood to the east of the castle building and the name of Torla is derived from this tower. It was part of a defensive system in the Ara valley that includes the castle at Ainsa and the defensive towers in Oto and Fiscal.

The castle is now small ethnological museum with displays on the traditional jobs and customs of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hike Pyrenees Trip Guarantee

Are your trips guaranteed to run?

Yes — all Hike Pyrenees holidays are guaranteed to run. Once you book, your trip is confirmed.

Travel & Transfers to Torla

Where do you pick up from, and what time are your transfers?

Transfers for all of our guided trips are included in the cost of your trip. We pick up from Zaragoza Delicias train station at 12:00 (midday) and from Zaragoza airport to meet the Ryanair flight from Stansted. Return drop‑off is at 11:45am at the train station or at airport timed for the London Stansted flight. See our getting here page for more details.

Can I arrive by train instead of flying?

Yes. High‑speed AVE trains from Madrid and Barcelona arrive at Zaragoza Delicias. Please ensure you arrive in Zaragoza Delicias for the midday transfer.

Can I make my own way to Torla?

Yes — you’re welcome to drive or arrange your own transport. We’ll confirm check‑in times and parking options, there is free, safe parking at the hotel.

Accommodation

Where will I stay during the holiday?

You’ll stay at the 4★ Hotel Ordesa, a modern hotel with a spa, outdoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, gardens, and comfortable en‑suite rooms. There is a charge for use of the spa facilities. Shops, banks, bars and restaurants are all within a short walk of the hotel.

Can I book a single room?

Yes. Single rooms are available for a supplement.

Is there Wi‑Fi at the hotel?

Yes — free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Are room ugrades available?

Yes, the hotel has premium rooms with private terraces and junior suites. Drop us an email to check upgrade prices and availability.

Meals & Dietary Requirements

Which meals are included in the price?

Breakfasts, picnic lunches on walking days, and evening meals are included. The only meals not included are lunch and dinner on the rest day.

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes — vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free and other dietary needs can be catered for with advance notice.

What are the evening meals like?

Three course meals are served in the restaurant each evening and you have a choice of starters, main course and dessert. For lunch on your rest day we visit Ainsa for tapas.

Walking Levels & Fitness

How difficult are the walks?

Two guided options are offered each day:

-Lower‑level: 9-14km of distance, relaxed pace, good paths, moderate ascents. There are no exposed paths with big drops.

-Higher‑level: 13-20km of distance, longer days, steeper terrain, rougher paths. Some days have paths with exposed sections and big drops.

Can I switch between the easier and harder walks?

Yes — each morning the guides explain both routes, and you can choose whichever suits you that day.

How fit do I need to be?

A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Lower‑level walks are suitable for regular walkers; higher‑level routes require good stamina and confidence on uneven terrain.

What distances and ascents should I expect?

Lower‑level: typically 9-14km of distance and 300–500 m ascent

Higher‑level: typically 13-20km of distance and 700–1200 m ascent.

Walking time ranges from 5–9 hours depending on the route.

Are the walks exposed?

Most routes follow well‑maintained paths. Some balcony trails have steep drops to the side, but the paths are wide and secure. Your guide will brief you each morning.

Group & Guiding

How big are the groups?

Groups are small and friendly, usually around 12 to 16 people. These are split between the two hikes each day making the hiking groups around 6 to 9 people depending on how the group splits.

Who leads the walks?

All hikes are led by one of Hike Pyrenees small guiding team. They are experienced, fully-qualified English speaking guides who know the Pyrenees, their wildlife, legends and history.

Is this holiday suitable for solo travellers?

Yes — many guests come alone, and the small‑group format makes it very sociable.

Packing & Equipment

What should I bring?

Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots, waterproof jacket, warm layers, sun protection, a daypack, and a refillable water bottle. The water in the hotel is safe to drink.

Can I borrow trekking poles?

Absolutely. We can lend you trekking poles for no extra cost.

Booking & Practicalities

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes - insurance to cover accidents in the mountains and illness is compulsory. The insurance must cover mountainous terrain and hiking. We also recommend general travel insurance to cover flight delays, lost luggage and for cover if you need to cancel your trip due to injury/illness before you travel.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel your trip, the deposit of 125€ per person is non-refundable. If you have paid your balance and cancel with 7 weeks notice or more, we will refund 50%. If you cancel with less than 7 weeks notice, no refund will be made. Remember, most travel insurances will cover this cost if you need to cancel due to injury.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes — let us know when booking and we can help arrange extra nights either in Torla or in Zaragoza, which is a lovely city to visit with lots to see and a fascinating history.

Trip-Specific Questions

What makes the Ordesa Walking Holiday special?

This holiday focuses on the dramatic landscapes of Ordesa National Park, including deep canyons, balcony trails, waterfalls, and high viewpoints.

Which classic routes might we walk?

Depending on conditions, routes may include: -The Faja de Pelay balcony trail -The Circo de Soaso and Cola de Caballo waterfall -The Faja Racon -Miradores above the Ordesa canyon -Valle de Bujaruelo

How long are the transfers to each walk?

Most walks are within a 20–40 minute drive; a few longer days may involve a slightly longer transfer. During July and August, parking is not permitted in the national park, so we will make use of the regular bus service that runs from Torla into the national park.

Will we see wildlife in the Ordesa National Park?

The Ordesa National Park is home to griffon vultures, bearded vultures, marmots, chamois, and a wide range of alpine flowers.

Private Group Bookings

Can you run the Discover Ordesa for a private group?

Yes, we can run this itinerary for as a bespoke trip for private groups with dates to suit the group. Drop us an email with approx. numbers and dates if you are interested in a private group trip.