Family Adventure in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park

Enchanting Escapes in Ordesa National Park

Today was a day of gentle exploration and breathtaking views here in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. Leaving the more strenuous hikes for another time, Jihad, Lina, and I decided to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the region through leisurely walks and stunning vistas. It was a day that reminded me why we chose this destination for our family adventure – a perfect blend of tranquility and awe-inspiring landscapes.

We began our day with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Mesón Sorrosal in Fanlo. I always appreciate starting the day with a good meal, and this charming spot did not disappoint. The traditional Spanish breakfast, with its freshly baked bread, local cheeses, and strong coffee, set us up perfectly for our day of exploration. Lina, of course, was thrilled with her pastry, and Jihad and I enjoyed the robust flavors that fueled us for the morning ahead.

Our first stop was the Bosque de la Pardina del Señor, a mixed deciduous forest that felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating a mosaic of light and shadow on the forest floor. The air was filled with the scent of pine and damp earth, a refreshing change from the city air I'm used to in Toronto. We took our time wandering through the trees, marveling at the variety of flora. I tried to identify some of the plants, drawing on my limited knowledge from my balcony garden back home, but many were new to me. I made a mental note to buy a local flora guide to better appreciate the biodiversity of this region. Lina, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the insects and small creatures we encountered, turning over leaves and pointing out interesting fungi. It was a lovely, peaceful start to the day, a gentle immersion into the natural world.


Discover the serene beauty of Bosque de la Pardina del Señor, a national forest in Huesca, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After our woodland stroll, we drove to Miradores de Revilla, eager to experience the panoramic views I had read so much about. The drive itself was stunning, winding through the mountains with glimpses of the valleys below. When we arrived, the views were even more spectacular than I had imagined. The Miradores de Revilla offer vistas of the Gargantas de Escuaín, a dramatic gorge with towering cliffs and lush vegetation. We spent a long time simply gazing at the landscape, trying to capture the scale and grandeur of it all in our minds and on camera. I felt a sense of awe and gratitude to be witnessing such natural beauty. It's moments like these that make all the planning and travel worthwhile. I could see why this area is considered one of the best in Europe for birdwatching; the skies felt alive with soaring birds, though I couldn't identify many beyond the larger birds of prey circling above. I wished I had remembered to pack our binoculars; they were still sitting on the kitchen counter back at home! It was a minor oversight, though, and didn't detract from the experience.


Discover stunning panoramic vistas at Miradores de Revilla, an observation deck in Huesca offering breathtaking views of the Pyrenees mountains.

For lunch, we found ourselves at Restaurante Las Endrinas, a charming spot that promised local flavors and a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with hikers and families enjoying a midday meal. We ordered a selection of traditional dishes, including a hearty stew and some grilled meats. The food was simple but delicious, and it was clear that the ingredients were fresh and locally sourced. Lina enjoyed her meal, and it was a great way to relax and refuel after our morning explorations.


Discover authentic Aragonese cuisine at Restaurante Las Endrinas in Broto – where local flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.

In the late afternoon, seeking a bit of local flavor, we stopped by Bar Río Ara. I remember Jihad mentioning it was a good spot to unwind. It was a small, unassuming place, but it had a charm all its own. We ordered some drinks – a local beer for Jihad, a refreshing juice for Lina, and a glass of Spanish wine for me. We sat outside, enjoying the warm afternoon sun and watching the locals go about their day. It was a simple pleasure, but it gave us a glimpse into the everyday life of this region. I chatted with a friendly local who shared some tips about the area, including a recommendation for a hidden waterfall nearby. I made a mental note to check it out if we had time.


Experience the local flavors and warm hospitality at Bar Río Ara, a cozy bar in the enchanting Torla-Ordesa region.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Asador Casa Diego for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the aroma of grilled meats filled the air. We ordered a selection of dishes, including some succulent lamb and flavorful vegetables. The food was cooked to perfection, and the service was attentive and friendly. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about the highlights of the day – the peaceful forest, the stunning views, and the delicious food. It was a day that had filled us with joy and gratitude.


Discover the heart of Spanish grilling at Asador Casa Diego in Gavín – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Cueva del Oso and Nacimiento del río Ara. I'm particularly excited about the cave; Lina has been asking about caves ever since we started planning this trip. We'll start the day with breakfast at El Nido del Búho, and I am already looking forward to seeing what culinary delights they have to offer. We'll have lunch at Restaurante Casa Joaquín, which I've heard has a wonderful outdoor seating area. In the afternoon, we plan to visit Outlet de la Montaña, which might be a good opportunity to replace the binoculars I forgot! Dinner will be at Restaurante Balcón del Pirineo, where I hope we'll get some spectacular views to cap off the day.

As I reflect on today, I’m reminded of how important it is to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are not the grand adventures, but the quiet moments of connection with nature and with each other. As an immigrant, I've learned to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the world, and I'm grateful to be able to share these experiences with my family. I feel so lucky to be able to share this adventure with Jihad and Lina. Every day brings new discoveries, new challenges, and new memories. And as we continue our journey through Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring.

I'm also reminded of how much I miss Zahlé, my hometown in Lebanon. The landscapes here are so different, but the feeling of being surrounded by nature is something that resonates deeply with me. I hope that one day, I can bring Lina to Lebanon to experience the beauty of our homeland. Until then, I'll continue to explore and share our adventures here in Spain, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration. Goodnight from Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park!