The Heart of the Pyrenees

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

Transfers for all guided trips are included in the cost of the 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 the airport.

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.

Hike under Aneto - the highest peak in the Pyrenees

Benasque

The Chamonix of the Pyrenees

Hotel Ciria

Comfort & tradition

The Heart of the Pyrenees

The Chamonix of the Pyrenees

Comfort & Tradition

Guided hiking

7 nights

Dual level

Single centre

Walking holiday in the Heart of the Pyrenees

7-night guided walking holiday exploring the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park

Discover the very best of the Spanish Pyrenees on a guided walking holiday that explores the quiet valleys, high‑mountain viewpoints and traditional villages at the heart of Aragón. Based in the beautiful Benasque, you’ll enjoy a week of varied walks led by qualified, experienced local guides who knows the area inside out. The Posets-Maladeta Natural Park encompasses the highest two peaks in the Pyrenees, Pico Aneto and Pico Posets, and as such, offers stunning alpine scenery and high mountain terrain. The region also features many turquoise lakes and magnificent alpine valleys and meadows to explore.

Overview

7 night guided walking holiday
Dual level - two guided walks offered each day
Based in Benasque, known as the Chamonix of the Pyrenees
Hike under Aneto and Posets - the two highest peaks in the Pyrenees
Routes explore the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park

Aneto peak area guided hiking holiday Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Spanish Pyrenees with this guided itinerary based in the charming town of Benasque. Known as the "Chamonix of the Pyrenees" this area is home to the highest peaks of the Pyrenees, including Aneto, the tallest mountain in the range, and Posets, the second highest. After your hikes, relax in the welcoming atmosphere of the village, with its traditional architecture, charming cafes, and local culture.

Our local guides will show you the best trails of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park. The scenery is incredible with three thousand-meter peaks rising from alpine meadows. The longer routes will tackle several high peaks during the week. The easier hikes will visit some beautiful valleys, lakes, waterfalls and the 'Forau de Aigualluts', a limestone feature where a small river disappears down a cave to finally reemerge on the French side of the range.

Please be aware that the terrain here is alpine and challenging and both the long and shorter hiking options will be on rocky terrain. A bit of clambering over boulders will be needed, particularly on the longer hikes and even the easier hikes are rocky and uneven underfoot in a lot of places. Due to the nature of the terrain in the area, the easier hikes on this itinerary, are a bit harder than the easier hikes on our other dual-level itineraries. Guided hiking vacation in Spain

Benasque is the historical capital of its valley and a major tourist hub with a wide range of hotels and services. The town is divided into two distinct areas: the charming old quarter around Plaza Mayor and the Town Hall, and a modern section with newer buildings and shops. Visitors can admire traditional Pyrenean architecture, including Casa Faure, Casa Juste, and the Ribagorza Counts' Palace. The town’s streets reveal a blend of Gothic and Renaissance heritage, while Saint Mary’s Church displays Romanesque to Gothic styles. Strolling Benasque feels like stepping through layers of history.

Each day, you’ll have the option to choose between two different hiking routes:

Level 5 (Challenging): This demanding route is designed for seasoned hikers with good physical condition and balance. The trail includes steep inclines, rocky 'paths', and occasionally, narrow paths with some exposure. That said, the routes are hikes, not scrambles, but you should be happy walking on boulders and rocky terrain.

Level 3 (Moderate): These moderately challenging routes offer a rewarding experience for those with some hiking experience. Trails are well-marked with fewer steeper stretches but with sections of rocky and uneven terrain. Hikers will traverse beautiful landscapes, passing through forests and open meadows, with panoramic views along the way. This level requires good physical fitness and sturdy hiking footwear, suitable for intermediate adventurers eager to explore the natural beauty of the Pyrenees.

Itinerary

These walks explore the Poset-Maladeta natural park and it’s immediate surroundings. This is a sample itinerary and the exact routes will depend on weather conditions and the kind of walks the group would like to do.

Sunday - Benasque

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

Monday - Estós Valley

Low level: Estós valley floor
Explore the serene Estós Valley trail, a gentle route along the river, surrounded by lush meadows, forests, and towering peaks—a perfect escape into nature’s tranquility.
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles). Ascent: +/- 600 m (1968 feet)

High level: Ibón de Batisielles
This gentle hike takes you to the stunning Batisielles glacial lake in the Estós Valley, surrounded by soaring peaks and lush greenery. A perfect, relaxed day immersed in natural beauty.
Distance: 16 km (10 miles). Ascent: +/- 980 (3215 feet)

Tuesday - Literola Valley

Low level: Ibón de Remuñe
This scenic trail leads through the enchanting Remuñe Valley, passing streams and waterfalls on the way to the remote Remuñe Lake, surrounded by stunning 3,000-meter peaks. An uncomplicated hike, perfect for those seeking tranquility in the high mountains.
Distance: 9.15 km (5.68 miles). Ascent: +/- 669 m (2195 feet)

High level: Tuca Daliú (2531 m)
Challenge yourself on the Tuca Daliú route, a rewarding ascent offering sweeping views of rugged peaks and serene valleys—a must for avid hikers seeking Pyrenean panoramas.
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles). Ascent: +/- 1000 m (3280 feet)

Wednesday- Llanos del Hospital

Low level: Forau de Aigualluts and Col del Toro
Today the route offers a stunning journey through lush meadows, glacial landscapes, and the iconic Aigualluts sinkhole, ending at the scenic Collado del Toro with panoramic mountain views of the Val de Arán (Catalan Pyrenees)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles). Ascent: +/- 500 m (1640 feet)

High level: Tuca Salvaguardia (2738 m)
Starting from the Llanos del Hospital, the route ascends to the border pass of Portillón de Benás and soon after reaches the summit of Salvaguardia, a superb viewpoint over the Maladeta massif, home to Aneto
Distance: 15 km (6.8 miles). Ascent: +/- 1035 m (3396 feet)

Thursday - Rest Day

On your rest day, indulge in a well-deserved lie-in (breakfast is served until 10:30am!) before spending the day relaxing in Benasque. Our guides will offer a few options of what to do and there are several museums, a spa and lots of excellent outdoor shops in the village. There's also the option to go further afield and we can visit on the pretty villages in the surrounding area.

Friday

Low level: 3 waterfalls route
A beautiful and easy route starting from the village of Cerler, leading to one of the area's most picturesque spots, featuring the three waterfalls of Ardonés or Bom. There's an option to extend the hike by descending directly to Benasque.
Distance: 6.5 km (4.1 miles). Ascent: +/- 320 m (1050 feet)

High level: Tuca Paderna (2738 m)
A hike set in the Maladetas area, offering a superb vantage point of the massif’s northern slopes, as well as the western valleys of Remuñé and Gorgoutes, with views extending as far as Perdiguero.
Distance: 9.4 km (5.8 miles). Ascent: 750 m (2460 feet) / descent: 950 m (3120 feet)

Saturday - Sierra Negra

Today we discover La Sierra Negra, a striking mountain range known for its dramatic dark-hued rocks, which contrast beautifully with the surrounding landscape.

Low level: Ibón de Vallibierna
From Refugio de Pescadores we'll follow the trail, marked as part of the GR 11, passes scenic highlights like the Vallibierna and Llosas lakes. The hike features gradual ascents on varied terrain, with breathtaking views awaiting at the Ibones de Vallibierna.
Distance: 9.6 km (6 miles). Ascent: +/- 581 m (1906 feet)

High level: Sierra Negra circuit
A challenging route up to the ridge, followed by a constant series of ups and downs to reach each summit—but it’s well worth it for the spectacular views of the Maladetas and Aneto
Distance: 14.28 km (8.9 miles). Ascent: +/- 1039 m (3408 feet)

Sunday - Benasque

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

Heart of the Pyrenees Dates & Prices

2026

Sunday 26 July - 2 August
Sunday 30 August - 6 September (only 3 places remaining)

Price

1899 € per person (based on two sharing a double or twin room)
199 € single supplement

Included

7 nights in Hotel Ciria 5 days fully guided walking (choice of two walks each day)
7 x Breakfast each morning
5 x Picnic lunches each walking day
7 x 3 course evening meals each night (including 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 on the rest day

Getting to the Pyrenees

Transfers are included from Zaragoza train station or airport. Ryan Air flies from London Stansted to Zaragoza. You can also travel via Barcelona or Madrid and catch the AVE high-speed fast train to Zaragoza Delicias where we will pick you up. The AVE is very comfortable and smooth. Travelling at nearly 300 km/h, the journey from either Barcelona or Madrid takes approximately 1 hr 40 mins and there are trains roughly every hour.

We pick up from Zaragoza Delicias train station at 12:00 midday and drop off the 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.

There are direct flights from London Stansted to Zaragoza with Ryan Air, on Sundays and our transfers are timed top 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

Hotel Ciria

The holiday is based in the Hotel Ciria. Hotel Ciria offers a welcoming and homely atmosphere, embodying the traditional architecture of the Aragonese Pyrenees. The exposed wooden beams and stone walls reflect the noble materials of the Benasque Valley.

Its fireplace, set beneath a granite dome and surrounded by hand-carved wooden seating, makes it a truly unique place. The hotel’s 38 rooms, with views of the surrounding mountain range and the rustic village, ensure a restful and memorable experience, especially for families and couples.

The Ciria family has over 30 years of experience at the hotel, with a lifetime spent exploring and preserving the customs of the Benasque Valley. Few know the region as well as brothers José María and Dioni, both passionate mountaineers, hunters and fishermen, who personally bring their catches to the table at El Fogaril Restaurant.

At the heart of Hotel Ciria lies the "fogaril," a traditional high-Aragonese fireplace, set beneath a granite dome and surrounded by hand-carved wooden seating. This cozy space is perfect for chatting by the fire, enjoying a drink, or reliving the experience of tending the flames to warm up on cold days. The hotel’s commitment to excellent service and its deep connection to the mountains and the valley have earned Hotel Ciria prestigious awards and numerous mentions in travel guides.

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 Benasque

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 Benasque?

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 Hotel Ciria, a charming, family-run hotel in the heart of Benasque, celebrated for its traditional stone-and-wood architecture, warm hospitality, and the renowned regional cuisine of its restaurant, El Fogaril. 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 and a two-storey suite. 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 all evening meals are included. The only meals not included is lunch 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.

Walking Levels & Fitness

How difficult are the walks?

The Benasque area is the highest part of the Pyrenees. Therefore the trails here tend to be more alpine - i.e. rockier and more uneven underfoot than most of our itineraries. The ascents are quite steep and in general the Heart of the Pyrenees trip is a bit more physically demanding than most of our dual-level itineraries. Two guided options are offered each day:-Lower‑level: 9-14km of distance, relaxed pace, good paths, moderate ascents

-Higher‑level: 13-20km of distance, longer days, steeper terrain, rougher paths, occasional easy scrambling and some boulderfields

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

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

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 Heart of the Pyrenees in Benasque special?

This holiday explores the central Pyrenees around Benasque, with views of the Maladeta and Posets massifs, beautiful high valleys, and classic Pyrenean scenery. It combines big mountain backdrops with a lively base in a real mountain town.

Which classic routes might we walk?

Depending on conditions, routes may include:-The Valle de Estos

-The Eriste and Sahún valleys

-Walks with views of Aneto and Posets, the two highest peaks in the Pyrenees

- Puerto de Benás on the border with France

- Peak of Tuca de Salvaguardia (2738m)

-Lakes and balcony paths with superb views over the Benasque valley

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.

Will we see wildlife?

The area is home to griffon vultures, bearded vultures, marmots, chamois, and a wide range of alpine flowers. You'll also see the geological features known locally as 'forau' where streams disappear into caves carved out the limestone. The largest and most famous is the Forau d'Aiguallut whose waters cross the border subterraneously, emerging in France.

Private Group Bookings

Can you run this itinerary 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.