Riglos & Alquezar

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.

Q: Is there Wi-Fi at the hotel?

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

Q: Are room upgrades available?

Yes, both hotels have premium rooms with private terraces and junior suites. Drop us an email to check upgrade prices and availability.

Q: Can you cater for dietary requirements?

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

Hiking amongst the canyons of the Sierra de Guara and the cliffs of Mallos de Riglos

Perfect for early and late season

The warm climate of the Sierra de Guara makes it perfect for early and late season hiking

Wine, history and vultures

Neolithic cave paintings, medieval castles, a vineyard visit and hundreds of vultures

SommoS Winery

great winetasting

Riglos & Alquezar

Wine, history and vultures

SommoS winery

Perfect for early and late season hiking

Guided hiking

7 nights

Grade 2: Moderate

Two centre

Riglos & Alquézar: Hiking the canyons of the Pre‑Pyrenees

7‑night guided walking holiday exploring Riglos & Alquézar in the Pre-Pyrenees

Discover the warm, dramatic landscapes of the Spanish Pre‑Pyrenees on a guided walking holiday that explores the towering red cliffs of Riglos and the deep canyons and medieval streets of Alquézar. This is a completely different side of Aragón — more Mediterranean in feel, shaped by limestone towers, narrow gorges and ancient paths once used by shepherds and pilgrims. Our walks range from weaving amongst the unique Mallos de Riglos to the sculpted canyons and crystal‑clear pools of the Sierra de Guara, with plenty of time to enjoy the history, wildlife and relaxed pace of these two beautiful villages. It’s an ideal early‑ or late‑season trip with superb scenery and wonderfully varied walking.

Overview

7-night guided walking holiday
Grade 2: moderate walking
Twin centre holiday - two villages with beautiful views

Wonderful hiking amongst the canyons of the Sierra de Guara and the amazing cliffs of Mallos de Riglos. The warm weather of the pre-Pyrenees makes this the perfect place to hike in the autumn.

The holiday is split between two villages, both with wonderful views. First, we’ll stay in Murillo de Gallego with views over the wonderful cliffs of Mallos de Riglos. After three days hiking amongst the Mallos, we’ll head to the canyons of the Sierra de Guara. Here we stay in Alquezar - a beautiful village overlooked by the collegiate church of Santa Maria.

The area is steeped in history and was part of the frontier during the early stages of the Reconquista. The landscape is dotted with Christian and Moorish castles, and we’ll hike to cave paintings dating back to 5000 BC. There are huge colonies of griffon vultures roosting in both areas, and we’re sure to get close-up views.

Excellent accommodation in two lovely hotels. At Riglos, we stay at a spa hotel with beautiful views of the cliffs, which glow red in the setting sun. In Alquezar, we stay in an ancient building in the old town with fantastic views over the village. In Alquezar, we’ll eat out at fantastic local restaurants (in close walking distance), and in Murillo, we'll eat at the hotel's restaurant.

Itinerary

We’ll start off by hiking amongst the conglomerate cliffs of Riglos before moving to the gorges and canyons of the Sierra de Guara. There is a lovely variety to the hikes, with a mix of both conglomerate and limestone cliffs and canyons.

We've graded this as a moderate itinerary. Hikes are between 9 km and 15 km with a fair amount of ascent, between 450 and 750 metres. The distances aren't huge, but the ground is rocky, with some steep sections on looser ground.

This is a sample itinerary - the exact routes will depend on the weather and what the group would like to achieve.

Sunday - Murillo de Gállego

Arrive in Murillo de Gállego from Zaragoza late afternoon. Briefing about the week ahead by your guide, followed by the evening meal.

Monday - Mallos de Aguero

Riglos are not the only Mallos or 'conglomerate cliffs' in the area, and today we explore the Mallos de Aguero that tower above the village of the same name. This circular route takes us on a complete circuit of these fascinating rock formations. A side trip with a steep climb takes us up to the peak of Punta Comun, which has views to the main Pyrenees range in the north.
Distance: 10.2 km Ascent: 550 metres

Tuesday - Mallos de Riglos

Even bigger than yesterday's cliffs, the Mallos of Riglos are the most famous of the area. A wonderful trail winds us up through the cliffs and then along a ridge above them. Our return route takes us underneath the cliffs, and we’ll get sore necks as we gaze up at vultures and climbers! A superb day of hiking. View the route video below.
Distance: 11.5 km Ascent: 650 metres

Wednesday - Loarre Castle and Puchilibro

Our hike today starts at the magnificent 11th-century castle of Loarre, which we will have a chance to visit either at the start or end of the hike. Our route today takes us up to the peak of Puchilibro (1595 metres), one of the higher peaks in the area, which has superb views across the plains of Hoya de Huesca.
Distance: 13.6 km Ascent: 750 metres

Thursday - Vineyard Tour - Sommos

Today we leave Murillo de Gállego and head to Alquézar, which lies in the Somontano wine region. We'll visit the spectacular vineyard of Sommos, where we'll have a tour around the vineyard, wine tasting and lunch before heading on to Alquézar.

Friday - Vero Canyon

In the morning, we drive to the viewpoint of Portiacha, which has spectacular views down into the Vero canyon. From here, we hike back to Aluezar, passing three caves with Neolithic cave art dating from 8000 to 3000 BC. We cross several side canyons before dropping down into the Vero Canyon, crossing at the idyllic Puente de Villacantal, before climbing back up to Alquezar. View the route video below.
Distance: 9.3 km Ascent: 480 metres ascent, 580 meters descent

Saturday - Mascun Canyon

Today, we explore the wonderful rock formations of the Mascun Canyon, where the river has carved spires and arches. Climbers attempt incredible routes on the overhanging cliffs and arches. We hike through the first section of the canyon, before climbing up to view the upper Mascun canyon from above - truly spectacular. We head to the abandoned village of Otin, before returning via a separate branch of the canyon, passing a Neolithic dolmen. Fantastic hike to finish the week!. View the route video below
Distance: 15.5 km Ascent: 650 metres

Sunday

Free morning in Alquezar, perhaps a chance to hike the short but excellent Pasarelas route before leaving for the transfer back to Zaragoza train station or airport.

Riglos & Alquézar Dates & Prices

2026

Sunday 3 - 10 May
Sunday 18 - 25 October

Price

1899 € per person (based on two sharing a double or twin room).
269 € single supplement

Included

7 nights accommodation:
4 x Hotel Aguas de los Mallos (Murillo de Gállego)
3 x Hotel Villa de Alquézar (Alquézar)
Breakfast each morning
Picnic lunches each walking day
3-course evening meals each night.
Water and wine in Hotel Agua de los Mayos in Murillo de Gállego
Meals taken at the hotel in Murillo de Gállego and at local restaurants while in Alquézar.
Transfers to and from either Zaragoza airport or train station.
Transport to the walks each day and between the two villages.

Not included

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

Getting to the Pyrenees

Transfers are included from Zaragoza train station or airport. Ryanair flies from London Stansted to Zaragoza. You can also travel via Barcelona or Madrid and catch the AVE high-speed 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 minutes; there are trains roughly every hour.

We pick up from Zaragoza Delicias train station at 11:00 am and drop off on the Sunday at 9:30 am.

11 am Arrival Transfer
Trains that fit well with our 11:00 transfer are:
RENFE trains – the traditional rail company
Depart Barcelona 8:50, arrive Zaragoza 10:45
Depart Madrid 9:27, arrive Zaragoza 10:46

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

10:00 am Departure Transfer
RENFE train – Depart Zaragoza 10:47, arrive Barcelona 12:41
Iryo trains – Depart Zaragoza 10:41, arrive Barcelona 12:14
RENFE train – Depart Zaragoza 10:26, arrive Madrid 11:52

Please note that 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 Ryanair, on Sundays, and our 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

Hotels

4* Hotel Aguas de los Mallos (Murillo)

The magnificent views over the Mallos de Riglos, which glow red in the evening light, are a highlight of this lovely spa hotel. You can swim in the pool, have a wine on your balcony or relax in the jacuzzi, all while gazing at these mesmerising cliffs.

A modern hotel with 27 rooms and excellent facilities.

The outdoor pool is heated and open year-round. The spa features a spa pool with waterfall, massaging water jets, a jacuzzi, a sauna and Turkish bath. The hotel also offers massages and other treatments (at an additional price paid locally).

All rooms are a generous size, en-suite and most have a private balcony or terrace with views of the cliffs. Meals are taken at the hotel’s excellent restaurant with views over the cliffs.

Hotel Aguas de los Mallos room
Hotel Aguas de los Mallos Spa
Hotel Aguas de los Mallos pool

Hotel Villa de Alquezar (Alquezar)

An ancient royal palace at the top of the village with great views over Alquezar, the collegiate church and the surrounding countryside. There is a small outdoor pool (open in October, depending on the weather).

All rooms are a generous size, en-suite, and most have a private balcony with lovely views, perfect for relaxing after a day in the mountains.

The hotel serves excellent breakfasts, and evening meals will be taken at a variety of restaurants in the village. The quality of the restaurants in Alquezar is excellent.

Hotel Villa de Alquezar - double room with balcony
Hotel Villa de Alquezar pool area
Hotel Villa de Alquezar spa

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 the Pre-Pyrenees

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 pm (midday) and from Zaragoza airport to meet the Ryanair flight from Stansted. Return drop‑off is at 11:45 am at the train station or at the 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 the Pre-Pyrenees?

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 both hotels.

Accommodation in the Pre-Pyrenees

Where will I stay during the holiday?

For the first four nights, you’ll stay at the 4★ Hotel Aguas de los Mallos (Murillo), a modern spa and wellness hotel with indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, jacuzzi, and comfortable en‑suite rooms. There is a small shop and a few bars within a short walk of the hotel. For your remaining three nights, you will stay in the charming Hotel Villa de Alquézar. It is a beautifully restored stone hotel in the heart of the medieval village, with terraces overlooking the Vero Canyon. You can unwind in the small spa with jacuzzi and sauna after a day on the trails, making it a wonderfully relaxing base for exploring the area. The village has a good selection of bars, shops and an ATM, as well as several small museums and churches.

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, both hotel have 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 is lunch on the rest/transfer 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?

In Riglos, we eat at the hotel's excellent restuarant, whilst in Alquézar, we eat at different local restaurants in the village, enjoying regional dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.

Walking Levels & Fitness

How difficult are the walks?

This holiday offers a moderate grade. Walks are at a relaxed pace and on paths however we tackle some steeper sections and there are some sections of rockier paths.

How fit do I need to be?

A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, and you should be a regular walker.

What distances and ascents should I expect?

Typically 9-15km of distance and 450-750m ascent.

Walking time ranges from 5 to 7 hours, depending on the route.

Group & Guiding

How big are the groups?

Groups are small and friendly, usually around 6 to 8 people.

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 insurance policies 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 Alquezar or in Zaragoza, which is a lovely city to visit with lots to see and a fascinating history.

Trip-Specific Questions

What makes the Riglos & Alquézar holiday special?

This holiday combines two of the most iconic landscapes in the Pre‑Pyrenees: the towering Mallos de Riglos and the dramatic canyons around Alquézar. Expect varied walking, medieval villages, and spectacular scenery throughout.

What are the typical walking routes?

Routes may include the famous Mallos de Riglos circuit, where you walk beneath the towering red conglomerate cliffs, as well as panoramic ridge paths with views across the Pre‑Pyrenees. Around Alquézar, typical routes explore the Vero Canyon, medieval bridges, quiet limestone terraces and dramatic viewpoints above the village.

Will we see wildlife in the Pre-Pyrenees?

The Pre‑Pyrenees are fantastic for wildlife, especially around the cliffs of Riglos and the canyons near Alquézar. Griffon vultures are a constant presence, often soaring right overhead, and you may also spot Egyptian vultures, eagles and other birds of prey. The area is home to ibex, wild boar, red squirrels and a wide range of butterflies and spring flowers.

Private Group Bookings

Can you run the Riglos & Alquézar itinerary for a private group?

Yes, we can run this itinerary 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.