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

Reaching New Heights in Ordesa

Today was nothing short of epic! The kind of day that etches itself into your memory, a perfect blend of natural beauty and personal challenge. The crisp mountain air, the stunning vistas, and the camaraderie with my friends – it all came together to create an unforgettable experience. It was a day where I felt truly alive, pushing my limits and soaking in the grandeur of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Casa Joaquín. I opted for a simple but satisfying tostada with tomato and a strong café con leche to fuel up for the adventures ahead. The restaurant had a cozy, family-run feel, and it was the perfect spot to prepare for the physical challenges to come.

First on the agenda was Valle de Otal. The drive there was scenic, with the landscape transforming into a panorama of autumn colors. When we arrived, the crisp air nipped at our faces, a refreshing contrast to the warmer temperatures back in Montreal. The valley itself was breathtaking. The trail wound through meadows and forests, with the towering peaks of the Pyrenees providing a stunning backdrop. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility as we hiked, surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature. The valley is gorgeous with the river carving through it.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Valle de Otal, a stunning hiking area in Huesca, Spain, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
We continued our trek, eventually reaching Cascada de la Cueva. The waterfall was a sight to behold, a powerful cascade of water plunging into a pool below. The spray created a misty halo around the falls, and the sound was deafening but soothing. We took some time to admire the falls and snap some photos, capturing the moment forever. I took some great photos of Nang here.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascada de la Cueva in Torla-Ordesa, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush landscapes and thrilling hiking trails.
After the relative ease of the morning's hike, the afternoon presented a significant challenge: Clavijas de Carriata. These iron pegs hammered into the rock face are not for the faint of heart. As I looked up at the seemingly vertical climb, I felt a surge of adrenaline and a healthy dose of trepidation. I made sure my hiking boots were tied extra tight.


Explore Clavijas de Carriata: A breathtaking hiking trail in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
As we started to ascend, the exposure was intense. With each step, I had to focus on finding a secure foothold and maintaining my balance. The views, however, were incredible. The entire Ordesa Valley stretched out before us, a tapestry of green and gold. It was a stark reminder of why I love hiking – the challenge, the reward, and the stunning beauty that surrounds you.

Sometimes, the greatest rewards come from pushing beyond our comfort zones.

There were moments when I questioned my sanity, when my muscles screamed in protest, and my fear threatened to overwhelm me. But with the encouragement of my friends, I pressed on. We helped each other, offering a steady hand or a word of encouragement when needed. I remember offering a hand to Javier, who was finding one section particularly unnerving. That's what I love about travelling with friends; we support each other. Slowly but surely, we made our way to the top.

The sense of accomplishment I felt upon reaching the summit was immense. I had conquered my fear and pushed myself to the limit. It was a moment of pure exhilaration, a feeling of being on top of the world. We spent some time at the top, soaking in the panoramic views and celebrating our achievement. The descent was almost as challenging as the ascent, but we took our time and made it down safely.

After such an exhilarating day, we were all ravenous. We stopped for lunch at Restaurante Balcón del Pirineo. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering stunning views of the valley. I ordered the grilled beef, a local specialty, and it was cooked to perfection. The meat was tender and flavorful, and it was the perfect reward after a long day of hiking. The others enjoyed their meals just as much. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and it was the perfect place to relax and refuel.


Discover exquisite local cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante Balcón del Pirineo in Huesca - a must-visit for any culinary traveler.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Bar Aragonés. The bar was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to unwind after a day of exploring the park. I ordered a glass of local wine and savored the moment. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and it was the perfect way to end the day. I chatted with some locals, learning about the history and culture of the region. They were friendly and welcoming, and they made me feel like I was part of the community.


Experience the authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Bar Aragonés in the heart of Boltaña, a perfect retreat for every traveler.
For dinner, we headed to Asador Casa Diego. I had heard great things about their grilled meats, and I was not disappointed. The restaurant had a rustic and charming atmosphere, and the staff was friendly and attentive. I ordered the lamb, and it was cooked to perfection. The meat was tender and juicy, and it was seasoned with local herbs and spices. It was a truly memorable meal.


Discover the heart of Spanish grilling at Asador Casa Diego in Gavín – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. Today was a reminder of the power of nature, the importance of friendship, and the rewards of pushing oneself beyond one's limits. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park has captured my heart, and I know I will be back to explore its many other wonders.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cueva del Furicon, Miradores de Revilla and Collado de Añisclo, which I am very excited about! Before that though, we will have breakfast at Bar Restaurante Arazas, lunch at Hotel Restaurante Lamiana, and dinner at Restaurante Mesón Sorrosal. I am also hoping to visit Sabores Perdidos [Citations for all of these would be great, but I don't have the ability to look those up].

This trip has been an incredible experience so far, and I can't wait to see what the rest of our time in Ordesa has in store. I feel so lucky to be able to share these experiences with my friends. I am already looking forward to sharing more stories and photos with you all. Until then, ¡hasta luego!