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Peaks and Passes of Benasque guided walking holiday in the Spanish Pyrenees
Guided Walking Holiday

Peaks & Passes
of Benasque

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

7-night guided walking holiday
in the Spanish Pyrenees

From €1,999
per person

Single supplement: From €199

2027 Dates & availability

This holiday runs Sunday to Sunday.
Please select the dates you would like to enquire about.

Ready to book?

You can book your Peaks & Passes of Benasque holiday online.

Overview

  • 7-night guided walking holiday
  • Single-level walking throughout the week
  • Challenging high-mountain routes for fit, experienced walkers
  • Based in Benasque, one of the great mountain centres of the Spanish Pyrenees
  • Walk beneath Aneto and Posets, the two highest peaks in the Pyrenees
  • Transfers included from Barcelona Airport and Barcelona Sants railway station

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 lively mountain town of Benasque, we explore the rugged trails, high passes, glacial valleys and alpine lakes of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park.

This is a week for fit and experienced walkers who enjoy long mountain days and more demanding terrain. The Benasque Valley has a distinctly alpine character, with three-thousand-metre peaks rising above forests, flower-filled meadows, glacial valleys and wild high country. Many of our routes offer superb views towards Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees, and Posets, the second highest.

Challenging single-level walking

This is a single-level guided walking holiday, with the group walking together each day. You should have a good level of fitness, previous mountain walking experience and confidence on rough, uneven terrain.

The walking around Benasque is generally more rugged and alpine than on many of our other holidays. Routes can include sustained climbs, rocky mountain paths, boulder fields, steep ascents and descents, and occasional sections where you may need to use your hands for balance. This is not a technical climbing holiday, but you should be comfortable moving confidently through high mountain terrain.

Typical walks are around 14–20 km, with approximately 700–1,400 metres of ascent and walking days of around 7–9 hours, depending on the route and conditions.

Our guides choose the walks carefully according to the weather, mountain conditions and the group. The aim is to explore some of the finest high-level walking in the Benasque Valley at a steady, safe and enjoyable pace.

Itinerary

This itinerary explores the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park and the high mountain landscapes around Benasque. It is designed for fit and experienced walkers who are comfortable with long days, sustained climbs and rough mountain terrain.

The itinerary below is an example of the walks we normally offer. We keep our programme flexible and may change the order of the walks, or choose alternative routes, depending on the weather, mountain conditions and the needs of the group.

Day 1 – 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 welcome briefing over dinner, where your guide will talk through the week ahead.

Day 2 – 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)

Day 3 – 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)

Day 4 – 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)

Day 5 – Rest Day in Benasque

After three good mountain days, today is a chance to enjoy a well-earned rest. Breakfast is served until 10:30 am, 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 attractive villages in the surrounding valley.

Day 6 – 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)

Day 7 – 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)

Day 8 – 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
2027 Dates & Prices

This holiday runs Sunday to Sunday
18 – 25 July 2027

Price

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

Included

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

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 or Barcelona Sants train station on the arrival and departure days.

The information below is provided as a guide to help you understand how our Barcelona transfers usually work.

By air – Barcelona-El Prat Airport

Barcelona-El Prat Airport is served by a wide range of international airlines, making it a convenient arrival point for guests travelling from the UK, Europe and further afield.

On arrival day, our airport pick-up is at 14:00. We then continue to Barcelona Sants train station to collect guests arriving by rail before transferring together to the holiday base.

At the end of the holiday, we provide a return transfer to Barcelona, with a drop-off at Barcelona Sants train station at 11:00, followed by Barcelona-El Prat Airport.

By train – Barcelona Sants

Barcelona Sants is the city’s main railway station and is well connected by high-speed and long-distance trains from many parts of Spain.

Our arrival day pick-up from Barcelona Sants is at 14:30.

Our departure day drop-off to Barcelona Sants is at 11:00.

Useful train operators include RENFE and Iryo.

For more details of our transfers, please see our getting here page. If you would like help choosing suitable flights or trains, please drop us an email 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 railway station on the arrival and departure days. On arrival day, we pick up at Barcelona-El Prat Airport at 14:00 and Barcelona Sants at 14:30 before transferring to Benasque.

Can I arrive by train instead of flying?

Yes. Barcelona Sants railway 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 included airport pick-up for this holiday. The 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 railway 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 and meeting arrangements before your holiday.

Accommodation

Where will I stay during the holiday?

You’ll stay for all seven nights 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 an excellent 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?

This is a challenging walking holiday 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 dual-level holidays, 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?

Typical walks are around 14–20 km, with approximately 700–1,400 metres of ascent. Walking days are generally around 7–9 hours, depending on the route, conditions and the pace of the group.

Are the walks technical?

This is a hiking holiday rather than a climbing or technical scrambling trip. However, the terrain around Benasque is alpine and rocky, and some routes may include boulder fields, steep climbs, rough paths and occasional sections where you may need to use your hands for balance. You should be confident on rough mountain terrain.

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, history and local culture.

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 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. 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 wildest and most alpine areas of the Spanish Pyrenees. Based in Benasque, we walk beneath the highest peaks in the range, including Aneto and Posets, and explore the dramatic high-mountain 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 may change depending on the weather, mountain conditions and the needs 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 relatively close to town, while others require a short transfer further up the valley to reach the trailhead.

Will we see wildlife in the Benasque Valley?

The Benasque Valley and 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. As with all wildlife, sightings cannot be guaranteed.

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 arranged to suit the group. Please contact us with approximate numbers and preferred dates if you are interested in a private group trip.

Peaks & Passes of Benasque

7-night guided walking holiday
in the Spanish Pyrenees

From €1,999
per person

Single supplement: From €199

2027 Dates & availability

This holiday runs Sunday to Sunday.
Please select the dates you would like to enquire about.

Ready to book?

You can book your Peaks & Passes of Benasque holiday online.

Prefer to talk?

We’re happy to help with availability, travel plans or choosing the right holiday.

Call us +34 974 495 401 WhatsApp us Send us a message Email us info@hikepyrenees.co.uk

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Location:

Hotel Ciria, Benasque