Family Adventure in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park

A Majestic Start in Ordesa

After months of planning and dreaming, we finally set foot in the breathtaking Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. The anticipation had been building, especially for Lina, who couldn't stop talking about the mountains. Leaving Toronto behind, with its familiar cityscape, for this slice of Spanish paradise felt like stepping into a painting. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of the Ordesa Valley, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at El Duende in Torla. This charming restaurant, nestled in a historic house dating back to 1831, offered a cozy atmosphere that perfectly blended tradition and modernity. I opted for a traditional Spanish breakfast, while Jihad enjoyed a strong coffee to prepare for our hike. Lina, of course, chose the pastry option, her eyes wide with excitement.

Fueled up and ready to go, we hopped on the bus from Torla to Pradera de Ordesa, the starting point for many of the park's trails. The bus ride itself was scenic, winding through lush landscapes that hinted at the natural beauty that awaited us. As we stepped off the bus at Pradera de Ordesa, the sheer scale of the valley was awe-inspiring. Towering cliffs surrounded us, and the air was crisp and clean. The meadows were vibrant with wildflowers, a colorful carpet that stretched as far as the eye could see. It was the perfect spot to start our adventure.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse hiking trails of Pradera de Ordesa, a must-visit destination in the Pyrenees for nature lovers.

Our main goal for the day was to hike to Cascada de Arripas, a waterfall I'd seen countless photos of but was eager to experience in person. The trail was relatively easy, making it perfect for a family hike. Lina, with her boundless energy, skipped ahead, eager to be the first to spot the waterfall. Jihad and I followed at a more leisurely pace, taking in the stunning views and enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature. The path meandered through woodlands, offering shade and respite from the warm Spanish sun. We passed fellow hikers, families, and nature enthusiasts, all drawn to the same magnetic beauty of Ordesa. Along the way, we pointed out various flora and fauna to Lina, turning the hike into an impromptu nature lesson. She was particularly fascinated by the different types of butterflies fluttering around us, their wings a kaleidoscope of colors.

The magic of Ordesa lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the way it connects you to nature and to each other.

As we rounded a bend in the trail, the sound of rushing water grew louder, signaling that we were close to Cascada de Arripas. And then, there it was – a magnificent cascade of water plunging down the rocky cliffs. The waterfall was even more impressive in person than in the photos. We spent a good while simply admiring its beauty, feeling the cool spray on our faces and listening to the thunderous roar of the water. Lina was mesmerized, pointing and exclaiming at every splash and swirl.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascada de Arripas, a stunning waterfall nestled in the heart of Torla-Ordesa, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

I couldn't resist snapping dozens of photos, trying to capture the essence of this natural wonder. It was a challenge, of course, as no photo could truly do justice to the experience. We found a perfect spot near the viewpoint to sit and have a snack, enjoying the picturesque view while refueling for the rest of our hike. I had packed some traditional Lebanese pastries from a local bakery in Toronto, a small taste of home amidst the Spanish wilderness. Sharing these treats with Jihad and Lina, surrounded by the grandeur of Ordesa, was a truly special moment.

After our waterfall stop, we explored Regalos Ordesa, a local shop where I found some lovely souvenirs. I picked up a handcrafted magnet of Ordesa y Monte Perdido to add to our collection back home, and Lina chose a small stuffed Pyrenean chamois as a reminder of our trip. Supporting local businesses is something I always try to do when we travel, as it adds to the authenticity of the experience.


Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Regalos Ordesa, the perfect spot for souvenirs in the breathtaking Torla-Ordesa region.

For lunch, we decided to try Restaurante La Pradera de Ordesa. The restaurant is in a perfect location, right in the heart of the park. We enjoyed a delicious Spanish meal with views of the valley. I tried the local trout, while Jihad opted for a hearty paella. Lina, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by devouring a plate of patatas bravas. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and welcoming.


Experience authentic grilled cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Restaurante La Pradera de Ordesa in scenic Torla-Ordesa.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Torla, exhausted but exhilarated. The bus ride was quieter this time, as many of us were lulled into a peaceful state by the day's adventures. Back in Torla, we freshened up at our cozy inn before heading out for dinner. We chose A Borda Samper, a restaurant known for its traditional Aragonese cuisine. The atmosphere was rustic and charming, and the food was hearty and flavorful. We shared a selection of tapas, including local cheeses, cured meats, and grilled vegetables. Lina particularly enjoyed the croquetas, declaring them the best she'd ever tasted.


Experience authentic Spanish flavors at A Borda Samper, your go-to tapas bar in Torla-Ordesa, Huesca.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets of Torla, soaking in the ambiance of this quaint mountain village. The air was cool and crisp, and the stars were out in full force. We stopped for gelato at a local shop, a sweet ending to a perfect day. As we walked back to our inn, hand in hand, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park had already captured our hearts, and I knew that the days to come would only deepen our love for this magical place.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Mirador de Calcilarruego and hike the Senda de los Cazadores. I've heard the views from Mirador de Calcilarruego are simply stunning, and the Senda de los Cazadores promises a challenging but rewarding hike. I'm also looking forward to visiting La Tienda de Montaña Torla-Ordesa, a mountain shop, to gear up for our adventures. We'll start the day with breakfast at La Terraza Mondarruego, enjoy lunch at Restaurante Bar Turieto, and end the day with dinner at Restaurante La Brecha. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

As I sit here, writing this blog post, with a cup of herbal tea and the sound of crickets chirping outside my window, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the simple joys in life – spending time with family, connecting with nature, and experiencing new cultures. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park has already exceeded my expectations, and I'm excited to share more of our adventures with you in the days to come. I am also very happy that I remembered to bring my camera, but also a bit annoyed that I forgot the portable phone charger.

I am looking forward to many more days like this one!