Family Adventure in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park

Day Two: Above the Clouds
Today was all about embracing the heights of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. After a comfortable night, I woke up eager to see what new wonders awaited us. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers, a refreshing change from Toronto's city air. Today's itinerary promised stunning viewpoints and exhilarating trails, and I couldn't wait to share the experience with Jihad and Lina.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Terraza Mondarruego. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for starting our day. I opted for a traditional Spanish breakfast, while Jihad enjoyed some strong coffee to fuel up for our hike. Lina, of course, went straight for the pastries, her eyes sparkling with delight. It was a simple meal, but the warmth of the staff and the beautiful surroundings made it special.


Discover exquisite grilled cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain scenery at La Terraza Mondarruego in Torla-Ordesa.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off towards our first destination: Mirador de Calcilarruego. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through narrow mountain roads that offered glimpses of the breathtaking landscape. As we ascended, the views became increasingly spectacular, with the towering peaks of the Pyrenees dominating the horizon. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale and beauty of nature. It reminded me of the mountains back in Lebanon, but these had their own unique charm.

When we finally reached Mirador de Calcilarruego, I was speechless. The panoramic vista stretched out before us, revealing the vast expanse of the Ordesa Valley. The dramatic cliffs, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls created a scene of unparalleled beauty. Lina was particularly fascinated by the birds soaring below us, their calls echoing through the mountains. Jihad and I exchanged a knowing glance, both of us feeling grateful for this shared moment of wonder.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Ordesa Valley at Mirador de Calcilarruego, a stunning viewpoint in the heart of the Pyrenees.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand gestures, but in the quiet moments of shared discovery.

After soaking in the views at Mirador de Calcilarruego, we embarked on the Senda de los Cazadores, or Hunters' Trail. This trail is known for its challenging terrain and rewarding vistas, and I was excited to test my limits. As we started our ascent, the path grew steeper, winding through dense forests and rocky slopes. Lina, surprisingly, was full of energy, scampering ahead like a little mountain goat. Jihad and I struggled to keep up, but her enthusiasm kept us motivated.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Senda de los Cazadores in Ordesa Valley, a top hiking destination surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

The Senda de los Cazadores truly lived up to its name. The trail was rugged and demanding, requiring us to navigate steep inclines and uneven terrain. There were moments when I questioned my ability to complete the hike, but the thought of the stunning views that awaited us kept me going. Jihad was a constant source of support, offering words of encouragement and a helping hand whenever I needed it. It was moments like these that reminded me how lucky I was to have him by my side.

As we hiked, the landscape around us transformed, revealing hidden waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. The trail snaked along the edge of the Ordesa Valley, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. I made sure to take plenty of photos, wanting to capture the beauty of this place and share it with my readers. I knew that words alone could not do justice to the experience.

One of the highlights of the Senda de los Cazadores was the Faja de Pelay. This natural balcony offers an unparalleled perspective of the entire Ordesa Valley. As we walked along the Faja, I felt as though I was floating above the world, with the mountains stretching out before me like a majestic tapestry. It was a truly unforgettable experience, and one that I will cherish for years to come.

After several hours of hiking, we finally reached the end of the Senda de los Cazadores. We were tired and sore, but also exhilarated and fulfilled. We had conquered a challenging trail and witnessed some of the most breathtaking scenery I had ever seen. As we descended back towards the valley floor, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I knew that this was an experience that would stay with me forever.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped at La Tienda de Montaña Torla-Ordesa. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remember our adventure. The shop was filled with all sorts of hiking gear, local crafts, and regional products. I ended up buying a small hand-painted ceramic tile depicting the Ordesa Valley. It was the perfect memento of our day.


Discover top-tier exercise equipment at La Tienda de Montaña Torla-Ordesa, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Ordesa National Park.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante Bar Turieto. After our long hike, we were all ravenous. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with hikers and tourists enjoying a well-deserved meal. We ordered a variety of tapas, wanting to sample the local cuisine. The food was delicious and satisfying, and the atmosphere was lively and fun. It was the perfect way to refuel after our adventure.


Discover Huesca's culinary treasure at Restaurante Bar Turieto - A grill paradise serving authentic flavors in a breathtaking setting.

As evening approached, we made our way to Restaurante La Brecha for dinner. This restaurant was recommended to us by a local, and I was eager to try it out. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting ambiance, with warm lighting and rustic décor. We ordered a traditional Spanish meal, wanting to immerse ourselves in the local culture. The food was amazing, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Restaurante La Brecha in Torla-Ordesa – where local flavors meet breathtaking scenery.

After dinner, we strolled through the town, enjoying the cool evening air. The streets were quiet and peaceful, a stark contrast to the bustling atmosphere of the day. We stopped for ice cream, savoring the sweet treat as we reflected on our adventures. Lina was already fast asleep in my arms, her face serene and content. It was a moment of pure bliss, and I knew that I would never forget it.

As I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary. We plan to visit the Cascada del Estrecho and Gradas de Soaso, two more of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park's must-see attractions. I'm also excited to check out Café Bar Mondarruego for a relaxing evening drink. I have a feeling that tomorrow will be just as amazing as today.

Before I close, I wanted to share a quick observation about the locals here in Ordesa. Everyone we've met has been incredibly friendly and welcoming. Despite the language barrier, they have gone out of their way to make us feel at home. It's this warmth and hospitality that truly makes a place special. It reminds me of the welcoming nature of people from Zahlé.

Until tomorrow, dear readers. May your own adventures be filled with breathtaking views and thrilling trails.

P.S. I almost forgot to mention! I was so focused on the hike that I completely forgot to pack binoculars and our rain jackets. Rookie mistake! Thankfully, the weather held up, but I'll definitely make sure to double-check my packing list tomorrow.