Self-Guided Walking Holiday

Villages of the Guara

Self-guided hotel-to-hotel walking in the Sierra de Guara region of the Pre-Pyrenees

Spring and autumn walking between traditional stone villages, through wild limestone scenery

★★★★★ 386 trusted reviews from our guests

Self-guided hiking

7 nights

Grade 2/3: moderate and strenuous options

Hotel-to-hotel hiking

Villages of the Guara Natural Park

The Villages of the Guara is a relaxed, hotel-to-hotel self-guided walking holiday in the Sierra de Guara, a quieter and more characterful part of the Pre-Pyrenees in northern Spain.

Walking between traditional villages, you follow carefully planned routes through limestone hills, olive groves and dramatic canyon landscapes, while we transfer your luggage between hotels. Detailed route notes and GPS tracks help everything run smoothly, leaving you free to enjoy the walking and the villages along the way.

With mild spring and autumn conditions and a gentler feel than the high Pyrenees, this holiday is ideal for walkers looking for rewarding days on the trail combined with local culture, traditional villages and a more relaxed pace.

Villages of the Guara
Self Guided Walking Holiday

2027 dates

Available in spring and autumn, ideal for walking in warmer, sunnier conditions.

Available from 1 March to 31 May
Also available from 1 October to 30 November
Arrive and depart on the day that suits you
Hotel-to-hotel walking with luggage transfers included

From 1599 € per person

Based on 4 or more people.
2/3 people: 1649 € per person.

Overview

7-night self-guided hotel-to-hotel walking holiday
6 days of walking through the Sierra de Guara in the Pre-Pyrenees
Grade 2–3: moderate to strenuous walking, with route choice on several days
Ideal for spring and autumn walking when the high Pyrenees are less suitable
Luggage transfers included — walk each day with just a daypack
Stay in Alquézar and remote villages deep in the Guara

Walk from village to village through the Sierra y Cañones de Guara Natural Park, one of the most distinctive walking landscapes in the Pre-Pyrenees of Aragón. Instead of the high alpine scenery of the central Pyrenees, the Guara is a landscape of limestone ridges, deep river canyons, Mediterranean woodland, olive groves and historic stone villages.

This 7-night self-guided holiday includes 6 days of walking, beginning and ending in the beautiful medieval village of Alquézar. From there, the route heads deeper into the Sierra de Guara, linking small rural villages and some of the area's most impressive canyon landscapes.

Your luggage is transferred between hotels, so you walk each day with just a daypack. We provide detailed route information and GPS tracks, leaving you free to concentrate on the walking, scenery and villages along the way.

Walking through an abandoned village in the Sierra de Guara Natural Park

Made for spring and autumn walking

One of the biggest advantages of the Sierra de Guara is its season. The area's lower altitude and Mediterranean influence make it particularly well suited to walking in spring and autumn, when conditions in the high Pyrenees can still be snowy or becoming wintry.

Our 2027 departures are available from 1 March to 31 May and again from 1 October to 30 November, making this an excellent option if you want to walk in northern Spain outside the main summer season.

Grade 2–3 walking with real variety

The walking is best described as moderate to strenuous. Several days offer shorter and longer route options, while on some of the longer stages a morning taxi can be used to reduce the distance.

The terrain changes constantly: woodland paths, limestone tracks, canyon trails, open ridges and rocky sections underfoot. The more demanding options include days of around 20 km (12.5 miles) or more.

Canyons, abandoned villages and ancient landscapes

The Sierra de Guara is famous for its dramatic canyon scenery. Rivers including the Vero and Alcanadre have carved deep gorges through the limestone, creating the landscape that makes this area so distinctive.

Along the route you also encounter abandoned villages, prehistoric remains, cave paintings, medieval bridges and tiny settlements that feel far removed from the busier parts of northern Spain. The combination of natural scenery and human history is one of the strongest reasons to choose this holiday.

Walking through the limestone canyon landscapes of the Sierra de Guara

Begin and end in Alquézar

Your holiday starts and finishes in Alquézar, one of the best-known villages in the Sierra de Guara. Its medieval streets, hilltop castle and position above the Río Vero canyon make it a memorable place to begin and end the journey.

Midweek, the atmosphere changes completely as you stay in much smaller and more remote villages. These quieter stops are a big part of the character of the trip and give you a real sense of travelling through the Guara rather than simply visiting it.

Walking in the Sierra de Guara in the Pre-Pyrenees of Aragón

Itinerary

This is a 7-night self-guided holiday with 6 days of walking. You can start on whichever day suits you, giving you plenty of flexibility when planning your trip.

The walking is Grade 2–3, moderate to strenuous. Several days have shorter and longer route options, although even some of the shorter routes are substantial mountain days. The longest shorter option is 19 km (11.8 miles) with around 1,100 m (3,610 ft) of ascent.

For fitter walkers, the longer options and extensions take you to additional viewpoints, remote villages and higher ground. The terrain varies considerably during the week, from woodland paths and old village tracks to rougher, rockier sections through the limestone landscapes of the Sierra de Guara.

We provide detailed route information, maps and GPS tracks for the walks. On your first evening in Alquézar, we’ll give you a full briefing covering the itinerary, route options, weather conditions and practical information for the week ahead.

Day 1 – Arrival in Alquézar

Arrive in Alquézar, one of the most beautiful villages in the Sierra de Guara.

You’ll have a briefing in the evening to go through the week ahead, including the walking routes, maps, GPS tracks, weather and any questions you may have before setting off.

Overnight at Hotel Villa de Alquézar.

Day 2 – Circular walk from Alquézar

Your first walk begins by descending into the dramatic canyon of the Río Vero before climbing towards the villages of Asque and Colungo.

The return route crosses the Río Vero again, with the option of following Alquézar’s famous Pasarelas del Vero — walkways suspended above the river through one of the most spectacular sections of the canyon.

There is also the option to extend the walk to the Basacol pools or towards Chimiachas cave.

Second night at Hotel Villa de Alquézar.

A) Standard route

Distance: 13.8 km (8.6 miles) · Ascent: 680 m (2,230 ft)

B) Extended route

Distance: 17.8 km (11.1 miles) · Ascent: 850 m (2,790 ft)

Alquézar in the Sierra de Guara Natural Park
Alquézar

Day 3 – Alquézar to Lecina / Bárcabo

Today you leave Alquézar and head deeper into the Río Vero canyon, crossing the medieval bridge of Villacantal.

The route passes several caves containing prehistoric rock art dating from around 3000–5000 BC. As you climb away from the canyon, there are superb views back across the gorge and north towards the high Pyrenees and Monte Perdido.

The shorter route finishes in Lecina, home to an enormous holm oak that was named European Tree of the Year in 2021.

You can finish here and be collected, or continue farther towards the viewpoint and cave paintings of Barfaluy, with the possibility of walking on towards Bárcabo.

At the end of the walk, we transfer you to Paúles de Sarsa for your first night at El Cóndor.

A) Shorter option – to Lecina

Distance: 10.5 km (6.5 miles) · Ascent: 630 m (2,070 ft)

B) Extended option

Distance: 18.5 km (11.5 miles) · Ascent: 830 m (2,725 ft)

Day 4 – Pico Asba

Today’s circular walk takes you into the heart of the Sierra de Guara through a wild and little-visited landscape.

The route climbs over Pico Asba (1,438 m), with wide-ranging views across the limestone ridges of the Guara and north towards the much higher peaks of the Pyrenees.

Second night at El Cóndor, Paúles de Sarsa.

Circular route via Pico Asba

Distance: 15.2 km (9.5 miles) · Ascent: 700 m (2,295 ft)

Day 5 – Paúles de Sarsa to Rodellar

Heading west, you reach the northern end of the spectacular Mascún Canyon.

The trail follows higher ground above the canyon, with superb views down into its limestone gorge and across the extraordinary rock pinnacles, towers and cliffs that make this one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Sierra de Guara.

This is one of the more demanding days of the week. A taxi transfer at the start can be used to reduce the walking distance.

Overnight at Aparthotel Valle de Rodellar.

A) Shorter option

Distance: 19 km (11.8 miles) · Ascent: 1,100 m (3,610 ft)

B) Longer option

Distance: 28 km (17.4 miles) · Ascent: 1,350 m (4,430 ft)

Day 6 – Circular walk from Rodellar

The day begins by following the floor of the Mascún Canyon before a steep climb takes you towards the abandoned village of Otín.

The longer option continues farther to Nasarre, another abandoned village in the heart of the Sierra de Guara. The route then passes a Neolithic dolmen before descending through a side canyon back towards Rodellar.

Second night at Aparthotel Valle de Rodellar.

A) Shorter option

Distance: 15.3 km (9.5 miles) · Ascent: 640 m (2,100 ft)

B) Longer option – via Nasarre

Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles) · Ascent: 860 m (2,820 ft)

Neolithic dolmen near Otín in the Sierra de Guara
Neolithic dolmen near Otín

Day 7 – Rodellar to Alquézar

Your final walking day takes you through another contrasting part of the Guara, following the Balced Canyon and crossing the southern side of the Sierra.

There are excellent views south across the plains of Aragón before the route eventually descends back towards Alquézar, completing your journey through the natural park.

As on Day 5, there is the option of using a taxi at the start to shorten the walking distance.

Final night at Hotel Villa de Alquézar.

A) Shorter option

Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles) · Ascent: 400 m (1,310 ft)

B) Longer option

Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles) · Ascent: 806 m (2,645 ft)

Mascún Canyon in the Sierra de Guara
The canyon landscapes of the Sierra de Guara

Day 8 – Departure from Alquézar

Enjoy a final morning in Alquézar before beginning your homeward journey.

Villages of the Guara
2027 Dates & Prices

The Villages of the Guara holiday is available during spring, early summer and autumn, when conditions in the Pre-Pyrenees are ideal for walking. You can arrive and depart on the day that suits you.

Price

Dates	2–3 people	4+ people
1 March – 31 May	1,649 €	1,599 €
1 October – 30 November	1,649 €	1,599 €

Prices are per person and based on two people sharing. Minimum party size: 2 people.

Single Room Supplements

315 € supplement: single en-suite room each night, except for the two nights in Rodellar where you share an apartment with another guest. You have your own bedroom but share the bathroom.

440 € supplement: single en-suite accommodation throughout the holiday, including your own apartment in Rodellar.

Included

7 nights' accommodation
3 nights at Hotel Villa de Alquézar
2 nights at El Cóndor in Paúles de Sarsa
2 nights at Apartahotel Valle de Rodellar
Breakfast every morning
Picnic lunch on each walking day
Three-course evening meal every night
Evening meals at selected restaurants in Alquézar
Detailed route descriptions and GPS tracks
Daily luggage transfers between accommodation
One suitcase of up to 15 kg per person
Taxi transfers on Days 3, 5 and 7

Not Included

Flights, travel insurance, drinks with evening meals and transfers to and from Alquézar.

Getting to Alquézar

Alquézar is in the Sierra de Guara, around 50 km east of Huesca. You can travel independently by hire car or public transport, and private transfers can also be arranged.

See our Getting to Alquézar and the Sierra de Guara page for more information.

Hotels

The accommodation is an important part of the Villages of the Guara experience. Rather than staying in large resort hotels, you spend the week in three very different rural bases as you make your way through the Sierra de Guara.

You begin and end in beautiful Alquézar, spend two nights in the tiny hamlet of Paúles de Sarsa, and then stay beside the canyon landscapes of Rodellar. All accommodation has Wi-Fi, and your luggage is transferred for you between each base.

Hotel Villa de Alquézar – Alquézar

Your first, second and final nights are at the excellent Hotel Villa de Alquézar, set in the historic centre of one of the most beautiful villages in the Sierra de Guara.

The hotel occupies a historic building and has a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. Rooms enjoy views across Alquézar and its surrounding landscape, while the garden and outdoor areas are ideal for relaxing after a day’s walking.

Its location is particularly convenient: you are right in the village, with Alquézar’s narrow medieval streets, restaurants and views over the Río Vero canyon all close at hand.

Hotel Villa de Alquézar in the Sierra de Guara

Spa facilities at Hotel Villa de Alquézar

Casa El Cóndor – Paúles de Sarsa

The middle part of the holiday takes you somewhere completely different. Casa El Cóndor is a traditional rural house in the tiny hamlet of Paúles de Sarsa, surrounded by the quiet countryside of the northern Sierra de Guara.

The 300-year-old stone building has been restored while retaining much of its traditional character, including the distinctive Pyrenean-style chimney known locally as an espantabrujas — literally a “witch scarer”.

This is intentionally simple rural accommodation rather than a luxury hotel, but that is very much part of its appeal. The setting is wonderfully peaceful, the rooms have private bathrooms, and there is an outdoor swimming pool for warmer days.

Apartahotel Valle de Rodellar – Rodellar

Your next two nights are at the Apartahotel Valle de Rodellar, in the heart of the Sierra y Cañones de Guara Natural Park.

The apartments are set in Rodellar, one of the best-known villages in the Guara and an excellent base for exploring the spectacular Mascún Canyon. Each apartment is fully equipped and has its own living space, bathroom and terrace or porch.

The aparthotel also has its own restaurant, bar and small shop, so everything you need is conveniently close by. Breakfasts and evening meals are taken at the property during your stay.

View from the terrace at Apartahotel Valle de Rodellar

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 holiday is confirmed.

Travel & Transfers to Alquézar

Do I need a car?

No. You do not need a car during the holiday. Most walks begin from your accommodation or include the necessary local transfer as part of the itinerary.

Some guests choose to drive to Alquézar, but it is also possible to travel by public transport via Barbastro and arrange a taxi for the final journey to Alquézar.

See our Getting to Alquézar and the Sierra de Guara page for more information.

If we come by car, can we leave it in Alquézar while we are walking?

Yes. There is public parking in Alquézar where you can leave your car while you complete the hotel-to-hotel section of the holiday. Parking in Alquézar is charged.

Are any transfers included during the walking itinerary?

Yes. The transfer at the end of Day 3 to Paúles de Sarsa is included. Taxi transfers are also included on Days 5 and 7 and can be used to shorten those walking days if required.

Accommodation

Where will I stay during the holiday?

You stay in three very different locations during the week.

Your first, second and final nights are at Hotel Villa de Alquézar in the historic village of Alquézar.

Nights three and four are at Casa El Cóndor in the tiny hamlet of Paúles de Sarsa, a peaceful rural base in the northern Sierra de Guara.

Nights five and six are at Apartahotel Valle de Rodellar, close to the spectacular Mascún Canyon.

Do the rooms have private bathrooms?

Yes, when sharing a twin or double room your accommodation has private bathroom facilities.

For solo travellers choosing the 315 € single supplement, you have your own bedroom throughout the holiday, but during the two nights in Rodellar you share an apartment and bathroom with one other guest.

The 440 € single supplement includes your own apartment in Rodellar, giving you private bathroom facilities throughout.

Can I book the holiday as a solo traveller?

Yes, subject to availability. A single supplement applies.

There are two single-room options: 315 € with a shared bathroom during the two nights in Rodellar, or 440 € for private accommodation throughout, including your own apartment in Rodellar.

Is there Wi-Fi at the accommodation?

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation during the holiday.

Meals & Dietary Requirements

Which meals are included?

Breakfast is included every morning, along with a picnic lunch on each of the six walking days and an evening meal every night.

In Alquézar, evening meals are taken in selected restaurants in the village. At the other accommodation, evening meals are provided at or alongside the property.

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other dietary requirements can normally be catered for. Please tell us about any dietary requirements when you book so that we can arrange everything in advance.

What are the evening meals like?

The meals reflect the rural setting of the holiday, with local and traditional dishes wherever possible. In Alquézar you'll eat at selected village restaurants, while your other evening meals are provided at your accommodation.

Walking Levels & Route Information

When can I walk the Villages of the Guara itinerary?

For 2027, the holiday is available from 1 March to 31 May and from 1 October to 30 November.

The lower altitude and Mediterranean influence of the Sierra de Guara make it particularly suitable for spring and autumn walking, when the higher Pyrenees can still have snow or more wintry conditions.

How difficult is the walking?

The walking is Grade 2–3, moderate to strenuous.

Several days have shorter and longer route options, but this should still be considered a proper walking holiday rather than an easy sightseeing itinerary.

Some days involve rocky and uneven terrain, substantial ascent and long distances. You should be comfortable walking for several hours in hilly terrain.

What is the hardest walking day?

Day 5, between Paúles de Sarsa and Rodellar, is one of the most demanding days.

The shorter option is approximately 19 km (11.8 miles) with 1,100 m (3,610 ft) of ascent. The longer route is around 28 km (17.4 miles) with 1,350 m (4,430 ft) of ascent.

An included taxi transfer can be used at the start of the day to reduce the walking distance.

What is the terrain like in the Sierra de Guara?

The Sierra de Guara is a limestone and conglomerate landscape of canyons, ridges, woodland, rocky paths and traditional village tracks.

The walking does not require climbing or technical mountaineering, but some sections are rough and rocky underfoot, so good walking boots or shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are important.

Are the routes easy to follow?

We provide detailed route descriptions, maps and GPS tracks for the walks.

Most paths are straightforward to follow, although there are some quieter sections where paths can be less obvious. These areas are highlighted in your route information, and the GPS tracks provide an additional navigation aid.

Do you transfer my luggage between hotels?

Yes. We transfer your luggage between accommodation, so you only need to carry a daypack while walking.

The luggage allowance is one suitcase of up to 15 kg per person.

Will I be walking with other hikers?

No. This is an independent self-guided walking holiday.

Other walkers may occasionally be following the same trails, but you should not expect to be walking as part of a group. Some sections of the Sierra de Guara are very quiet, so you need to be comfortable walking and navigating independently.

Booking & Practicalities

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Insurance covering accidents and illness while hiking in mountainous terrain is compulsory.

We also strongly recommend insurance covering cancellation, flight disruption and lost luggage.

What is your cancellation policy?

Your 125 € per person deposit is non-refundable.

If you have paid your balance and cancel at least 7 weeks before departure, we refund 50% of the balance paid.

If you cancel less than 7 weeks before departure, no refund is made.

We strongly recommend travel insurance that includes cancellation cover.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes. We can normally arrange additional nights in Alquézar before or after your walking holiday.

You could also combine the trip with extra nights elsewhere in Aragón, including Zaragoza. Contact us and we can discuss the best options for your plans.