Adventure in Ordesa: Exploring Spain's Natural Wonder with Friends

Summiting New Heights in Ordesa

Today marked another incredible chapter in our Ordesa adventure. The crisp mountain air, the vibrant hues of autumn, and the camaraderie with my friends made for a day filled with unforgettable moments. I'm excited to share the highlights of our journey, from exploring mysterious caves to conquering breathtaking mountain passes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bar Restaurante Arazas in Broto. It's a cozy spot known for its river views and local specialties. I ordered the *migas*, a traditional dish made with breadcrumbs, and a strong *café con leche* to fuel up for the day's adventures. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in the park. Nang and the others enjoyed a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to the local blood sausage. It’s always a pleasure to start the day with a taste of local flavor.

Our first stop was the Cueva del Furicon. The trail leading to the cave was a gentle ascent through a forest of beech and fir trees. The sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow on the forest floor. As we approached the cave entrance, a cool breeze greeted us, a stark contrast to the mild autumn air outside. Exploring the Cueva del Furicon was like stepping into another world. The cave was dimly lit, with just enough light filtering in from the entrance to reveal its rocky interior. The air was damp and cool, and the silence was broken only by the occasional drip of water. We ventured deeper into the cave, marveling at the unique formations of stalactites and stalagmites. It felt like we were the first explorers to set foot in this hidden chamber. I couldn’t help but think about Ananda and how much he would have enjoyed exploring this cave with us. He always had a knack for finding the most interesting spots, a trait I am sure he would use to its full potential if he ever joined us on one of these trips.


Discover the natural wonders of Cueva del Furicon, a breathtaking cave and nature preserve in the heart of Huesca, Spain.

After emerging from the cave, we continued our journey to the Miradores de Revilla. The trail leading to the viewpoints was a bit more challenging, with steeper inclines and rocky terrain. But the effort was well worth it. As we reached the first viewpoint, we were greeted with panoramic views of the Revilla Valley. The landscape was a tapestry of colors, with the green of the forests contrasting against the red and gold of the autumn foliage. The sky was a brilliant blue, and the air was crisp and clear. We spent some time at the viewpoints, taking in the scenery and capturing photos of the stunning landscape. The weather was mild, with temperatures in the high 60s, perfect for hiking.


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

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on our itinerary was the Collado de Añisclo. This was the most challenging part of our day, but also the most rewarding. The trail to the *collado* was a steep and winding ascent, with an altitude change of over 2,500 feet. The physical rating is hard. As we climbed higher, the views became even more spectacular. We could see the entire Ordesa Valley spread out before us, with the towering peaks of Monte Perdido and the surrounding mountains in the distance. The Collado de Añisclo is a mountain pass at 2,453 meters.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Collado de Añisclo, a hiking paradise in the heart of the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.

The final stretch to the *collado* was particularly challenging, with loose scree and rocky terrain. But we persevered, encouraging each other along the way. Finally, we reached the summit. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. We had conquered the Collado de Añisclo! The views from the top were simply breathtaking. We could see the entire Añisclo Canyon, a deep gorge carved by the Bellós River over millions of years. The sheer scale of the canyon was awe-inspiring. We spent some time at the summit, resting, taking photos, and soaking in the incredible views. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such natural beauty with my friends.

For lunch, we stopped at Hotel Restaurante Lamiana. Nestled in the small village of Lamiana, this charming mountain hotel offered stunning views and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant served traditional Aragonese cuisine, and we enjoyed a delicious meal of roasted lamb with potatoes and vegetables. The food was hearty and flavorful, perfect for replenishing our energy after a long day of hiking. Nang particularly enjoyed the mountain views from the terrace.


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

After lunch, we made a stop at Sabores Perdidos, a local shop in Fiscal that specializes in artisanal food and beverages from the Pyrenees. I was eager to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Montreal. The shop was filled with a wide variety of local products, including cheeses, cured meats, jams, honey, and wines. I purchased a selection of *chireta* (a traditional Aragonese sausage), *tortetas* (small, flat cakes), and a jar of wildflower honey. I also picked up a bottle of local red wine to enjoy with dinner. The shopkeeper was friendly and knowledgeable, and she shared some interesting stories about the local food traditions.


Discover the rich culinary heritage of Huesca at Sabores Perdidos, offering exquisite local and natural goods for an unforgettable experience.

Our final stop of the day was Restaurante Mesón Sorrosal in Broto. This restaurant is known for its grilled meats and homemade dishes. The restaurant's decor features carved wood. It was the perfect place to celebrate our successful day of hiking and exploration. We indulged in a feast of grilled lamb chops, roasted vegetables, and a bottle of local wine. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about the highlights of our day. The Mesón Sorrosal offers a great selection of grilled meats, including lamb chops and steaks.


Experience authentic Spanish cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at Restaurante Mesón Sorrosal in Broto.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our campsite, tired but happy. The sky was ablaze with color, and the air was filled with the sounds of nature. We sat around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter under the starry sky. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. The weather in Revilla for the next few days looks partly cloudy and chilly.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Bosque de la Pardina del Señor, Puntón de las Brujas, and Cascada de La Larri. I am particularly excited to see the Cascada de La Larri, a stunning waterfall that plunges down a sheer cliff face. We will also visit Bar-ChillOut Los Caballos for dinner.

This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of self-discovery and connection. As we prepare for the next leg of our adventure, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of the world with my friends. I am reminded of the importance of taking time to appreciate the simple things in life: the beauty of nature, the warmth of friendship, and the joy of discovery. I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you in the days to come.

Perhaps I should bring Nang to Wing Zone when we return to Montreal. I saw they have a combo deal for bowls, wings and soda refills. Until next time!