Can I make my own way to Sallent de Gállego?

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

Guided Walking Holiday

Peaks & Passes
of Benasque

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

Transfers for all 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 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.

Q: Where will I stay during the holiday?

For the Peaks & Passes week, you will stay in the family-run Hotel Almud in Sallent de Gállego.

Q: Is there Wi-Fi at the hotel?

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

Q: Which meals are included in the price?

All breakfasts, picnic lunches on walking days, and six evening meals are included. The only meals not included are the lunch and evening meals on the rest day.

Challenging guided walking holiday in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees

High mountain routes, rocky passes and spectacular alpine lakes

★★★★★ 14 trusted reviews from our guests

Guided hiking

7 nights

Grade 4: Challenging

Single centre

High peaks, mountain passes and alpine lakes in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park

Peaks & Passes of Benasque is one of our more challenging guided walking holidays in the Spanish Pyrenees, based in the characterful mountain town of Benasque in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park. Designed for walkers who enjoy longer mountain days, higher routes and spectacular alpine scenery, this week explores rugged passes, glacial lakes, rocky valleys and superb viewpoints.

Each day is led by our experienced local guides, with routes chosen to make the most of the conditions and the group. It’s a rewarding week for fit walkers looking for a more challenging Pyrenean hiking holiday, with big views, classic mountain terrain and plenty of time to enjoy the high country.

Peaks & Passes of Benasque

Current trip dates and availability are shown below.

2027 date

18 – 25 July 2027 Available

1999 € per person

Overview

7 night guided walking holiday
Single-level walking throughout the week
Grade 4: Challenging walking
Transfers included from Barcelona Airport or Barcelona Sants train station
Based in Benasque, known as the Chamonix of the Pyrenees
Walk beneath Aneto and Posets, the two highest peaks in the Pyrenees

Peaks & Passes of Benasque is a challenging guided walking holiday based in one of the most spectacular high mountain areas of the Spanish Pyrenees. From the characterful town of Benasque, we’ll explore the rugged trails, dramatic passes, alpine lakes and glacial valleys of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park.

This is a week for fit and experienced walkers who enjoy long mountain days and higher, rockier terrain. The scenery is superb, with three-thousand-metre peaks rising above flower-filled meadows, forested valleys and wild high country. Many of the routes offer outstanding views towards Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees, and Posets, the second highest.

Each day is led by our experienced local guides, with walks chosen to make the most of the weather, conditions and the group. Expect steep climbs, uneven mountain paths, rocky sections and rewarding days in a truly alpine landscape.

Guided walking — challenging single-level hikes

Grade 4: Challenging

This is a single-level guided walking holiday, with the group walking together each day. A good level of fitness, mountain walking experience and sure-footedness are required. The terrain around Benasque is more alpine than many other areas of the Pyrenees, with rocky paths, boulder fields, steep ascents and occasional exposed sections.

Walks will vary depending on conditions, but you should be comfortable with long days in the mountains and sustained climbs. This is not a technical climbing or scrambling holiday, but the routes are demanding and are best suited to walkers who are confident on rough mountain terrain.

As always, you are on holiday, and our guides will choose routes carefully to give you the best possible week in the mountains. The aim is to enjoy the finest high-level walking in the Benasque Valley at a steady, safe and rewarding pace.

Itinerary

This itinerary explores the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park and the high mountain landscapes around Benasque, and is designed for fit and experienced walkers.

This is a sample itinerary. Exact routes may change depending on the weather, trail conditions and the ability of the group.

Sunday – Arrival in Benasque

We’ll meet you at either Barcelona Sants train station or Barcelona-El Prat Airport before transferring to Benasque, our base for the week.

On arrival, we’ll settle into the hotel and meet for a short welcome briefing over a snack, where your guide will talk through the week ahead.

Monday – Estós Valley and Ibón de Batisielles

Our first walk explores the beautiful Estós Valley, one of the classic valleys of the Benasque area. We follow the valley trail before climbing towards Ibón de Batisielles, a stunning glacial lake surrounded by forest, meadows and high mountain peaks.

It’s a superb introduction to the landscapes of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, with a rewarding mix of riverside paths, woodland, open views and alpine scenery.

Distance: 16 km (10 miles) · Ascent: 980 m (3,215 ft)

Tuesday – Literola Valley and Tuca Daliú

Today we head into the Literola Valley for a rewarding ascent of Tuca Daliú. This is a fine mountain route with wide views over the surrounding valleys and rugged Pyrenean peaks.

The walk gives a real sense of the higher terrain around Benasque, with steeper sections, rocky paths and excellent viewpoints along the way.

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles) · Ascent: 1,000 m (3,280 ft)

Wednesday – Llanos del Hospital and Tuca Salvaguardia

Starting from the beautiful area of Llanos del Hospital, we climb towards the border pass of Portillón de Benás before continuing to the summit of Tuca Salvaguardia.

This is one of the classic high viewpoints of the Benasque Valley, with superb views across the Maladeta massif, including Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees.

Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles) · Ascent: 1,035 m (3,396 ft)

Thursday – Rest Day in Benasque

After three good mountain days, today is a chance to enjoy a well-earned rest. Breakfast is served until 10:30am, so you can start the day slowly before exploring Benasque at your own pace.

The town has plenty of cafés, outdoor shops and local interest, and your guide will be happy to suggest options. There may also be the possibility of visiting some of the pretty villages in the surrounding valley.

Friday – Tuca Paderna

Today’s walk takes us into the Maladeta area for an ascent of Tuca Paderna. This is a superb viewpoint over the northern slopes of the massif, with views across the Remuñé and Gorgoutes valleys and towards Perdiguero.

The route gives another excellent day of high mountain walking, with dramatic scenery and a real sense of being among the highest peaks of the Pyrenees.

Distance: 9.4 km (5.8 miles) · Ascent: 750 m (2,460 ft) · Descent: 950 m (3,120 ft)

Saturday – Sierra Negra Circuit

Our final walk explores La Sierra Negra, a striking mountain range known for its dark-hued rocks and superb views towards the Maladetas and Aneto.

This is a challenging and rewarding ridge circuit, with a series of ascents and descents linking the high points of the range. It makes a fitting final mountain day, with spectacular views across one of the finest areas of the Pyrenees.

Distance: 14.3 km (8.9 miles) · Ascent: 1,039 m (3,408 ft)

Sunday – Departure to Barcelona

After breakfast, we leave Benasque and transfer back to Barcelona, with drop-offs at Barcelona Sants train station and Barcelona-El Prat Airport.

Peaks & Passes of Benasque
Dates & Prices

2027

Sunday 18 – 25 July 2027

Price

1999 € per person, based on two people sharing a double or twin room.
199 € single supplement.

Included

7 nights at Hotel Ciria in Benasque
5 days fully guided walking
Breakfast each morning
Picnic lunches on each walking day
7 three-course evening meals, including the rest day
Arrival and departure transfers from Barcelona-El Prat Airport or Barcelona Sants train station

Not included

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

Getting to the Pyrenees

Transfers are included from Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Barcelona Sants train station on the arrival and departure days.

On arrival day, we’ll meet guests at Barcelona-El Prat Airport at 14:00 and at Barcelona Sants train station at 14:30, before transferring to Benasque, our base for the week in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park.

At the end of the holiday, we’ll transfer you back to Barcelona, with drop-offs at Barcelona Sants train station and Barcelona-El Prat Airport.

Barcelona is well connected by international flights and high-speed rail, making it straightforward to join the holiday whether you are travelling by air or train.

If you would like advice on flight or train times that fit well with our group transfers, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

Hotel Ciria

Peaks & Passes of Benasque is based at Hotel Ciria, a welcoming mountain hotel in the heart of Benasque. The hotel reflects the traditional architecture of the Aragonese Pyrenees, with exposed wooden beams, stone walls and a warm, characterful atmosphere.

The hotel has been run by the Ciria family for many years, and their connection with the Benasque Valley is part of what makes the stay special. José María and Dioni know the surrounding mountains intimately, and the hotel has a strong local feel, rooted in the customs, landscapes and food of the valley.

At the heart of the hotel is its traditional fogaril, a high-Aragonese fireplace set beneath a granite dome and surrounded by hand-carved wooden seating. It’s a lovely place to relax with a drink after a day in the mountains.

Evening meals are served at the hotel’s El Fogaril Restaurant, where regional cooking and local ingredients are an important part of the experience. After challenging days on the trails, it’s a comfortable and atmospheric base to return to each evening.

Hotel Ciria in Benasque

Traditional room at Hotel Ciria

El Fogaril Restaurant at Hotel Ciria

Traditional interior at Hotel Ciria

Hotel Ciria dining room in Benasque

Hotel Ciria bathroom in the Pyrenees

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 are included from Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Barcelona Sants train station on the arrival and departure days. On arrival day, we pick up at Barcelona-El Prat Airport at 14:00 and at Barcelona Sants train station at 14:30, before transferring to Benasque.

Can I arrive by train instead of flying?

Yes. Barcelona Sants train station is one of our included pick-up points for this holiday. The pick-up from Barcelona Sants is at 14:30 on the arrival day.

Which airport should I fly to?

Barcelona-El Prat Airport is the best airport for this holiday. The included airport pick-up is at 14:00 on the arrival day.

What time should I book my return flight or train?

We transfer the group back to Barcelona on the departure day, with drop-offs at Barcelona Sants train station and Barcelona-El Prat Airport. Please contact us before booking your return travel so we can advise on suitable timings.

Can I make my own way to Benasque?

Yes — you’re welcome to drive or arrange your own transport to Benasque. We’ll confirm check-in times and parking options before your holiday.

Accommodation

Where will I stay during the holiday?

For Peaks & Passes of Benasque, you will stay at Hotel Ciria in Benasque. This welcoming mountain hotel has a traditional Pyrenean feel, with stone walls, exposed wooden beams and a warm, characterful atmosphere. It is a comfortable base for exploring the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park.

Can I book a single room?

Yes. Single rooms are available for a supplement.

Is there Wi-Fi at the hotel?

Yes — Wi-Fi is available at the hotel.

Meals & Dietary Requirements

Which meals are included in the price?

All breakfasts, picnic lunches on walking days, and seven evening meals are included. The only meal 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?

Evening meals are taken at Hotel Ciria’s El Fogaril Restaurant, where regional cooking and local ingredients are an important part of the experience. After challenging days in the mountains, it’s a comfortable and atmospheric place to return to each evening.

Walking Level & Fitness

How difficult are the walks?

Peaks & Passes of Benasque is a Grade 4: Challenging walking holiday. It is designed for fit and experienced walkers who are comfortable with long mountain days, sustained climbs, rocky paths and rougher alpine terrain.

Is this a single-level or dual-level holiday?

This is a single-level guided walking holiday, with the group walking together each day. Unlike our Heart of the Pyrenees holiday, there are not two walking options each day.

How fit do I need to be?

You should be a regular and confident mountain walker with a good level of fitness. The routes require stamina, sure-footedness and experience walking on rocky, uneven mountain terrain.

What distances and ascents should I expect?

Walks will vary depending on the route and conditions, but you should expect full mountain days with sustained climbs. Typical routes may include around 9–16 km of distance and up to around 750–1,050 m of ascent.

Are the walks technical?

This is a hiking holiday, not a climbing or technical scrambling trip. However, the terrain around Benasque is alpine and rocky, and some routes may include boulder fields, steep climbs and occasional exposed sections. You should be confident on rough mountain paths.

Group & Guiding

How big are the groups?

Groups are small and friendly, usually around 6–8 people, which allows flexibility and a relaxed atmosphere.

Who leads the walks?

All walks are led by one of the Hike Pyrenees 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, a waterproof jacket, warm layers, sun protection, a daypack and a refillable water bottle are essential. The terrain is rocky and alpine, so good footwear is particularly important.

Can I borrow trekking poles?

Yes. 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. Your insurance must cover mountainous terrain and hiking. We also recommend general travel insurance to cover flight delays, lost luggage and cancellation due to injury or illness before you travel.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel your trip, the deposit 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. Most travel insurance policies will cover this cost if you need to cancel due to injury or illness.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes — let us know when booking and we can help arrange extra nights in Benasque, or advise on options in Barcelona before or after your holiday.

Trip-Specific Questions

What makes Peaks & Passes of Benasque special?

This holiday explores one of the most spectacular high mountain areas of the Spanish Pyrenees. Based in Benasque, we’ll walk beneath the highest peaks in the range, including Aneto and Posets, and explore the alpine landscapes of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park.

What are the typical routes?

Routes may include Ibón de Batisielles, Tuca Daliú, Tuca Salvaguardia, Tuca Paderna and the Sierra Negra circuit. Exact walks will depend on weather, trail conditions and the ability of the group.

Will we see Aneto?

Many of the routes offer superb views towards Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees, as well as the surrounding Maladeta massif. Views always depend on the weather, but this is one of the best areas in the Pyrenees for dramatic high mountain scenery.

How long are the transfers to each walk?

Benasque is very well located for the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park. Some walks start close to the valley, while others involve a short transfer to reach the start of the route.

Will we see wildlife in the Benasque Valley?

The Benasque Valley and the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park are home to a wonderful variety of mountain wildlife, including griffon vultures, bearded vultures, marmots, chamois and many alpine flowers during the summer months.

Private Group Bookings

Can you run this 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 approximate numbers and dates if you are interested in a private group trip.