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

A Day of Awe in Ordesa

Today was nothing short of spectacular. The crisp November air, the stunning landscapes, and the camaraderie with my friends made for a day I won't soon forget. We immersed ourselves in the natural beauty of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, a place that truly lives up to its reputation.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Terraza Mondarruego. I opted for the *tostada con tomate* and a *café con leche*, a simple yet satisfying start to fuel our adventures. The café was bustling with fellow hikers and locals alike, all eager to start their day in the mountains. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for an entire day, and this one certainly did the trick. I remember back in Montreal, Nang and I would always try to find a good brunch spot on weekends; this felt like a Spanish version of that, only with a much more impressive view.

Fueled up and ready, we set off towards our first destination: Mirador de Calcilarruego. The hike itself was invigorating, a steady climb that rewarded us with increasingly panoramic views. The trail was well-maintained, and even though the air was cold—temperatures ranging from 1°C to 9°C —the exertion kept us warm. The landscape was a mix of golden and red hues, the autumn colours painting the mountains in a breathtaking palette.

Reaching the Mirador de Calcilarruego was an experience in itself. The vista opened up before us, revealing the vast expanse of the Ordesa Valley. The dramatic cliffs, the winding rivers, and the distant peaks created a scene that felt both humbling and awe-inspiring. I took out my camera, trying to capture the moment, but no photograph could truly do it justice. It was one of those moments where you just had to be there to fully appreciate it. I made sure to take a mental snapshot as well.


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

Sometimes, the greatest views are those earned through a bit of sweat and perseverance.

After soaking in the views at Mirador de Calcilarruego, we descended and made our way towards the Gradas de Soaso. This part of the hike was particularly enchanting. The trail led us through a forest, the ground covered in fallen leaves, the air filled with the scent of damp earth and pine. The sound of rushing water grew louder as we approached the cascades, building anticipation for what was to come.

The Gradas de Soaso themselves were a sight to behold. A series of cascading waterfalls, each tier flowing into the next, creating a natural staircase of water. The sunlight filtered through the trees, illuminating the falls and creating a magical, ethereal atmosphere. We spent some time here, simply watching the water flow, listening to its soothing sound, and marveling at the beauty of nature's design. I thought of Ananda back home; he would have loved to try and capture this scene with his drone.


Explore Gradas de Soaso: A breathtaking ecological park with stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails in the Ordesa Valley, perfect for nature lovers.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante La Cocinilla. This cozy spot offered a warm refuge from the November chill. I savoured a hearty meal of *Ternasco Asado*, a local lamb dish, which was absolutely divine. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with a fireplace crackling in the corner and the aroma of wood smoke filling the air. It was a perfect setting to relax and refuel before continuing our adventure. I made a mental note to try and recreate the Ternasco dish back in Montreal; Nang would certainly appreciate it.


Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Restaurante La Cocinilla in Torla-Ordesa - where flavor meets breathtaking natural beauty.

Our final stop for the day was Cascada del Estrecho. This waterfall was different from the Gradas de Soaso, more powerful and dramatic. The water plunged down a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous roar that echoed through the valley. The viewpoint offered a stunning perspective, allowing us to appreciate the sheer force and beauty of the waterfall. I felt a sense of awe and respect for the natural world, a reminder of its immense power and grandeur.


Explore the enchanting Cascada del Estrecho, a breathtaking waterfall in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back towards Torla, the sun setting behind the mountains, casting long shadows across the valley. We stopped at Café Bar Mondarruego for a well-deserved drink. I enjoyed a local beer, reflecting on the day's adventures. The bar was lively, filled with hikers sharing stories and locals enjoying their evening. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover the cozy charm of Café Bar Mondarruego, where local flavors meet stunning views in the heart of Torla-Ordesa.

Dinner was at Restaurante Bar Turieto, where I enjoyed some grilled chicken and potatoes. The service was great, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. It was a satisfying meal to cap off a day filled with physical activity and natural beauty.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cascada de Arripas , Senda de los Cazadores, and Puente de los Navarros. I'm particularly excited about the Senda de los Cazadores, as I've heard it offers some incredible views. We'll start the day with breakfast at Pizzeria Santa Elena [Pizzeria Santa Elena], ensuring we're well-fueled for another day of hiking and exploration. I'm also hoping to find some time to visit Brotes Ordesa [Brotes Ordesa], a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs for Nang and Ananda. It's always nice to bring back a little piece of the places we visit.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. The opportunity to experience new places, to immerse myself in nature, and to share these moments with friends is something I truly cherish. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park has captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The park in November is cooler and breezy, so make sure to bring layers. I’m glad I packed my hiking boots because the trails can be a bit uneven. The daylight hours are shorter this time of year, so we made sure to start early to maximize our time exploring.