Family Adventure in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park

A Day of Thrills and Beauty

Today was a day of contrasts, a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure and serene natural beauty. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park never ceases to amaze me with its diverse offerings. From scaling the heights of Clavijas de Cotatuero to witnessing the cascading splendor of Cascada de La Larri, it was a day filled with unforgettable moments. I am so glad that Jihad and Lina were able to share this with me.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bar Restaurante Arazas in Broto. It's a cozy little place, perfect for fueling up before a big day of hiking. The menu was simple, but satisfying. I opted for a café con leche and a tostada con tomate – a classic Spanish breakfast that never disappoints. Jihad went for something heartier, ordering a plate of migas, a traditional dish made with breadcrumbs, chorizo, and vegetables. Lina, of course, wanted panqueques. It was the perfect start to our day, setting us up for the adventures that lay ahead.

With our bellies full, we set off towards our first destination: Cascada de La Larri. The drive to the trailhead was scenic, winding through lush green valleys and offering glimpses of the towering peaks that define Ordesa National Park. The anticipation was building as we got closer, and Lina was practically bouncing in her seat with excitement.

The hike to Cascada de La Larri is considered moderate, but it was manageable even with Lina in tow. The trail meandered through a beautiful alpine meadow, with wildflowers dotting the landscape in a riot of colors. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of pine and damp earth. As we walked, we were treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, their snow-capped peaks glistening in the morning sun. It was a truly breathtaking sight, and I felt so grateful to be able to share this experience with my family.

As we got closer, we could hear the roar of the waterfall growing louder. And then, finally, we caught our first glimpse of Cascada de La Larri – a magnificent cascade of water plunging down a series of rocky cliffs. It was even more impressive than I had imagined. We spent some time simply admiring the view, taking photos, and soaking in the natural beauty of the place.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascada de La Larri, a stunning waterfall and nature preserve in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees.

Sometimes, the most thrilling adventures lead to the most serene moments.

After our waterfall adventure, it was time for lunch. We headed to La Lola de Ordesa, a charming restaurant known for its local cuisine. We enjoyed a delightful meal of grilled meats and fresh salads, savoring the flavors of the region. Lina particularly enjoyed the patatas bravas, a classic Spanish tapa consisting of fried potatoes with a spicy sauce. The restaurant had a lovely outdoor seating area, where we could soak in the views of the surrounding mountains while we ate.

With our energy levels replenished, we prepared ourselves for the afternoon's main event: Clavijas de Cotatuero. This via ferrata, one of the oldest in Spain, is not for the faint of heart. It involves traversing a series of iron rungs and cables that are bolted into the side of a cliff. While it's not technically difficult, it requires a good head for heights and a sense of adventure. Jihad and I were both excited to tackle this challenge, and Lina was eager to watch us from a safe distance.


Explore Clavijas de Cotatuero for breathtaking hiking trails and stunning landscapes in the heart of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain.

Before starting the climb, we made sure to gear up properly. We rented helmets and harnesses from a local outfitter, and we double-checked all our equipment to ensure it was in perfect working order. Safety is always our top priority, especially when engaging in activities like this.

As I started climbing the Clavijas de Cotatuero, I could feel my heart pounding in my chest. The exposure was significant, with sheer drops on either side of the trail. But as I focused on each step, each handhold, I began to feel more confident. The views were simply incredible, stretching out across the entire Ordesa Valley. I could see the winding river below, the lush green forests, and the towering peaks in the distance. It was a perspective that few people get to experience, and I felt incredibly privileged to be there.

There were a few moments that tested my nerves, particularly when crossing some of the more exposed sections. But with each challenge, I felt a sense of accomplishment. And when I finally reached the end of the via ferrata, I was filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and exhilaration.

Jihad followed close behind, equally thrilled by the experience. We both agreed that it was one of the most memorable adventures we've ever had. Lina was so excited and happy to see us finish. She was so proud of us for completing the climb.

After our adrenaline-fueled adventure, we decided to take it easy for the rest of the afternoon. We stopped by Acebo Productos Artesanos, a local shop that sells handcrafted souvenirs and regional products. I wanted to pick up a few gifts for friends and family back home, and this seemed like the perfect place to find something unique and authentic. The shop had a wide selection of items, including handmade jewelry, leather goods, and local delicacies like honey and cheese. I ended up buying a beautiful silver pendant for my sister and a jar of artisanal honey for my parents.


Explore Acebo Productos Artesanos for unique handcrafted souvenirs that reflect the cultural heritage of Panticosa, Huesca.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Hotel Restaurante Lamiana in Tella for dinner. This charming restaurant is known for its traditional Spanish cuisine and its cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local specialties, including roasted lamb and hearty stews. The perfect way to end a perfect day. I enjoyed a glass of local wine, savoring the rich flavors and reflecting on all the incredible experiences we had shared.


Experience delightful family-friendly dining at Hotel Restaurante Lamiana in Huesca, where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.

Tonight, as I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park has a way of captivating you, of drawing you in with its natural beauty and its endless opportunities for adventure. I'm so glad that I had the chance to experience it with my family, and I know that these memories will stay with me for a lifetime.

Tomorrow is our last day in Ordesa. We plan to visit Circo de La Larri and Cascada de la Cueva. I am looking forward to one last day of exploring this beautiful park before we head back to Toronto.