In mid-June we enjoyed a fantastic week on our Peaks & Passes guided walking holiday in the Valle de Tena. Joining me were Ana, James, Danika, Paul and Martha, who spent the week exploring some of the finest mountain scenery in the central Pyrenees.
Based in the beautiful village of Sallent de Gállego, we tackled a superb selection of routes that took us across high mountain passes, beside sparkling alpine lakes and onto several classic Pyrenean summits. Among the highlights were ascents of Pico de Ayous, Peyreget and Pacino, each offering its own unique character and magnificent views. From the summit ridges we enjoyed extensive panoramas stretching across the high peaks of both Spain and France, with many of the iconic mountains of the western Pyrenees on display.
The wildlife throughout the week was exceptional. The group was treated to multiple sightings of bearded vultures, one of the Pyrenees' most iconic birds, together with numerous griffon vultures soaring effortlessly above the valleys. We were also fortunate to spot a booted eagle, while marmots and chamois were regular companions on several of our walks. The combination of excellent visibility and time spent in remote mountain terrain made for some memorable wildlife encounters.
Our Peaks & Passes trip is rated 5 stars by our guests
June is one of the very best times to visit the Pyrenees and the mountains were bursting with colour. The alpine meadows were filled with wildflowers, with brilliant blue gentians providing some of the most striking displays of the week. We also encountered several species of orchids, along with a rich variety of alpine flora that added another dimension to every walk. It seemed that every trail offered something new to discover.
Our scheduled rest day proved too tempting to waste indoors. Rather than taking a day off from walking, the group opted for another mountain adventure, travelling to France to ride the famous Train d’Artouste. From there they completed the beautiful walk to Lac d’Aremoulit, enjoying yet more spectacular scenery beneath the dramatic granite peaks of the French Pyrenees. It was a wonderful addition to an already action-packed week.
Back in Sallent de Gállego, the evenings provided the perfect opportunity to relax and recover after long days in the mountains. Throughout the week the group enjoyed a variety of excellent dinners in some of the village's restaurants, sampling local cuisine and sharing stories from the day's adventures. The combination of outstanding hiking and great food is always one of the strengths of a Peaks & Passes holiday.
With fine weather, outstanding wildlife, colourful alpine flowers and a collection of classic Pyrenean summits, it was a truly memorable week in the mountains. A big thank you to Ana, James, Danika, Paul and Martha for their enthusiasm, energy and good company throughout the trip.
We hope to welcome you back to the Pyrenees again soon for more unforgettable mountain adventures.
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