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

Arrival in the Heart of the Pyrenees

After months of anticipation, Nang and I, along with our friends, finally set foot in the majestic Ordesa Valley. The journey from Montreal was long, but the moment we began our drive from Barcelona, I knew we were entering a realm of unparalleled beauty. The crisp November air, tinged with the scent of pine and damp earth, invigorated us as we prepared for our first day of exploration.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Ordesa Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees.

Our first stop was the charming village of Torla, the gateway to Ordesa. We grabbed a hearty breakfast at El Duende, a restaurant nestled in an old house dating back to 1831. The traditional Spanish fare, with a cozy atmosphere, fueled us up for the adventures that lay ahead. I savored every bite, thinking of how similar, yet different, it was to the flavors of my homeland in Thailand. It's these subtle cultural comparisons that truly enrich my travel experiences.


Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at El Duende in Torla-Ordesa - where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking mountain views.

To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.

With our bellies full, we hopped on the shuttle bus from Torla to Pradera de Ordesa, a vibrant meadow serving as the starting point for many trails. The bus ride itself was a treat, winding through narrow roads with glimpses of the towering peaks that define this landscape. Arriving at Pradera de Ordesa, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the valley. Towering cliffs framed a verdant expanse, and the Arazas River snaked its way through the heart of it all.

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse hiking trails of Pradera de Ordesa, a must-visit destination in the Pyrenees for nature lovers.
The weather in Ordesa y Monte Perdido in November is cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 34°F to 49°F. There’s also a chance of rain or snow. I was glad I packed layers, including my trusty fleece jacket and waterproof outer shell. The air was crisp, but the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a golden glow on the landscape.

Our main objective for the day was the iconic Cascada de la Cola de Caballo (Horsetail Falls), a moderate 17 km round trip hike. The trail meandered along the Ordesa Valley, treating us to stunning views at every turn. We passed through forests of beech and silver fir, the autumn colors adding a touch of magic to the scenery. The trail was well-marked and relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers of all levels.

Experience the stunning beauty of Cascada de la Cola de Caballo in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, a must-see for nature lovers visiting Spain.
Along the way, we made sure to stop at the Cascada de Arripas, Cascada de la Cueva and Cascada del Estrecho, each offering its own unique charm. The waterfalls cascaded down the rocks, creating a symphony of sound that resonated through the valley. I couldn't resist snapping photos, trying to capture the beauty of these natural wonders. Nang, ever the patient one, waited for me as I experimented with different angles and settings. Photography, after all, is my way of preserving these precious moments.

As we continued our trek, the anticipation for Cola de Caballo grew. The final stretch of the trail led us to the Circo de Soaso, a glacial amphitheater where the waterfall plunges from a great height. The sight was simply breathtaking. We took our time to admire the falls, feeling the mist on our faces and marveling at the power of nature. I thought about Ananda, my son, and how much he would have loved this view. I made a mental note to bring him here someday.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante La Pradera de Ordesa, located right in the heart of the park. We enjoyed a hearty meal of traditional Aragonese cuisine, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant was bustling with fellow hikers, all eager to refuel after their adventures. Over lunch, we discussed our plans for the rest of the trip, excited about the possibilities that lay ahead. Antonio and Gonzalo, who run the restaurant, were very kind and made us feel at home. They told us stories about the park and its history, adding another layer of depth to our experience.

Experience authentic grilled cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Restaurante La Pradera de Ordesa in scenic Torla-Ordesa.

After lunch, we explored La Tienda de Montaña Torla-Ordesa, a charming shop in Torla where I picked up a few souvenirs for the family back home. I found a beautiful handcrafted wooden carving of a Pyrenean chamois, a perfect reminder of our time in Ordesa. I also couldn't resist buying a few local delicacies, including some artisanal cheeses and cured meats.

Discover top-tier exercise equipment at La Tienda de Montaña Torla-Ordesa, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Ordesa National Park.

For dinner, we headed to Restaurante Atalaya Torla, known for its delicious cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a wonderful meal, sampling some of the local specialties. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. I tried the cordero con guarnición a la parrilla (grilled lamb with garnish), while Nang opted for one of the vegetarian options. Both dishes were excellent, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients that define Aragonese cuisine.

Discover exquisite grilled dishes at Restaurante Atalaya Torla, where local flavors meet stunning Pyrenean landscapes for an unforgettable dining experience.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our first day in Ordesa. We had hiked through stunning landscapes, marveled at majestic waterfalls, and savored delicious food. But more than that, we had connected with nature and with each other. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventure to Mirador de Calcilarruego, Gradas de Soaso and Cascada del Estrecho, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement. I know that Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park has many more wonders to reveal, and I can't wait to discover them all.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Mirador de Calcilarruego for panoramic views, the Gradas de Soaso, and the Cascada del Estrecho. We'll also be having breakfast at La Terraza Mondarruego, lunch at Restaurante La Cocinilla, and dinner at Restaurante Bar Turieto. To end the day, we will be visiting the Café Bar Mondarruego.