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

Whispers of the Past, Echoes of Nature

Today, Nang and I, along with our friends, embarked on a journey that felt like stepping back in time and diving headfirst into the raw power of nature. It was a day filled with ancient legends, stunning vistas, and the kind of physical exertion that makes you feel truly alive. From exploring the historic Ermitas de Tella to witnessing the cascading waters of Cascada del Cinca and the serene beauty of Circo de La Larri, it was a day that etched itself into our memories.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Pizzería El Taillón in Escalona. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our adventures. Fuelled up, we drove towards Tella, eager to explore the famed Ermitas de Tella.


Explore the historical hermitages and stunning landscapes of Ermitas de Tella, a hidden gem in the Huesca region of Spain perfect for hikers and nature lovers.

As we approached Tella, the landscape began to shift. The rolling hills gave way to steeper inclines, and the air grew crisper, carrying with it the scent of pine and damp earth. Tella itself is a charming village, with stone houses huddled together as if seeking shelter from the mountain winds. Parking the car, we began our walk towards the ermitas.

The Ermitas de Tella are a trio of Romanesque chapels, each with its own unique history and architectural style. The first one we encountered was the Ermita de San Juan y San Pablo, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop. It’s the oldest of the three, dating back to the 11th century. Standing there, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the past. It was easy to imagine the devout individuals who sought solace within those stone walls centuries ago.

The trail connecting the ermitas is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a pleasant walk even for someone like me, who prefers a leisurely pace. The views were simply breathtaking. The rolling hills of the Pyrenees stretched out before us, painted in autumnal hues of gold and brown.

As we walked, our friend Miguel, ever the history enthusiast, shared tales of local legends, including stories of witchcraft that surround the area. Apparently, these chapels were built to ward off evil spirits and protect the villagers from witches who were said to gather in the nearby mountains. It added an intriguing layer to our exploration, blending history with local folklore.

Next, we visited the Ermita de Fajanillas, which historians believe was the ancient parish church of Tella until the 16th century. Finally, we reached the Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña, the most modern of the three, dating back to the 16th century. From its vantage point, we enjoyed panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Visiting the Ermitas de Tella felt like stepping back in time, where history, spirituality, and stunning landscapes converged to create an unforgettable experience.

After immersing ourselves in the history and legends of Tella, we drove towards the Valle de Pineta, our next destination: Cascada del Cinca. The drive itself was a treat, with the road winding through picturesque valleys and alongside the turquoise waters of the Cinca River.

Reaching the parking area in Valle de Pineta, we prepared for our hike to the waterfall. The air was noticeably cooler here, and the landscape transformed into a dramatic display of towering cliffs and dense forests. As we began our ascent, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the surroundings. The valley felt immense, dwarfing everything in its path.

The trail to Cascada del Cinca is a popular one, and for good reason. It's a moderately challenging hike, with a steady incline that tests your stamina but rewards you with stunning views. The path meandered through a lush forest of beech and fir trees, their leaves creating a vibrant tapestry of color. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor.

As we climbed higher, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation for the spectacle that awaited us. Finally, after a couple of hours of hiking, we reached the base of Cascada del Cinca. The sight was simply awe-inspiring.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascada del Cinca in Bielsa, a perfect destination for hiking and nature lovers in the heart of the Pyrenees.

The Cinca River plunges dramatically over a cliff, creating a cascade of water that thunders into a pool below. The sheer force of the water was mesmerizing, and the spray created a cool mist that kissed our faces. Nang, ever the photographer, was in her element, capturing the scene from every possible angle.

We spent a good hour simply soaking in the beauty of the waterfall, marveling at the power of nature. It was a humbling experience, reminding us of our place in the grand scheme of things.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante La Brecha in Bielsa. After a morning of hiking, we were ravenous, and the hearty mountain fare was exactly what we needed. I opted for a traditional Aragonese stew, packed with meat and vegetables, while Nang savored a plate of grilled lamb. It was simple, honest food, prepared with love and care.

Our final stop for the day was the Circo de La Larri, a glacial cirque known for its stunning natural beauty. After the powerful display of Cascada del Cinca, the Circo de La Larri offered a more serene and tranquil experience.


Explore the breathtaking Circo de La Larri, a nature preserve in Ordesa National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

The hike to the cirque was relatively easy, following a well-maintained path that wound through meadows and alongside a gently flowing stream. The landscape was breathtaking, with towering cliffs surrounding us on all sides.

Reaching the Circo de La Larri, we were greeted by a vast expanse of green meadows, dotted with wildflowers and grazing cows. The air was still and quiet, broken only by the gentle tinkling of cowbells. It was a scene of idyllic beauty, a perfect contrast to the drama of Cascada del Cinca.

We spent some time simply wandering through the meadows, soaking in the peace and tranquility of the surroundings. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and exploration.

Before heading back to our campsite, we stopped at Bar Bocadillos for a quick drink. It was a cozy spot, filled with locals chatting and laughing. We enjoyed a couple of beers, toasting to our incredible day in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. It was a fitting end to a day that had touched our souls and reminded us of the beauty and power of nature.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at Asador Casa Diego in Gavin. The restaurant is known for its grilled meats, and we were eager to sample their specialties. The aroma of wood smoke and sizzling meat filled the air as we entered, whetting our appetites.


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

I ordered the grilled lamb, while Nang chose the steak. The meat was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with a smoky flavor that lingered on the palate. It was a truly memorable meal, a perfect way to celebrate our day of adventure.

As we drove back to our campsite, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experiences we had shared throughout the day. From the ancient legends of Tella to the thundering waters of Cascada del Cinca and the serene beauty of Circo de La Larri, it was a day that had touched all of our senses. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park had truly revealed its magic to us.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Nacimiento del Río Ara, Tesoro Buesa and Cascada Castiecho, before heading back to Montreal. I am already looking forward to it.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.” It is a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of today’s adventure in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.