Wilderness — Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park

I’m sure that at some point, you’ve seen a line of little ants carrying large breadcrumbs, trying to get to the end of their journey in one piece.

When you’re in the Ordesa National Park, you might well feel like one of these ants under the watchful eye of the mountains: you carry a large backpack, follow the path and enjoy a well-deserved reward. However, you’re overcome by a feeling of smallness and insignificance. And no wonder – Ordesa is a place of extremes and the scene of great stories and legends.

Here, shepherds used to brave the freezing temperatures and steep slopes to cross the glacial valleys. Taking advantage of unmade paths that nature had carved out over thousands of years, they ensured the survival of their livestock. It was here that Roland, nephew of Charlemagne, smashed through a stone wall with his sword to see France for the last time before he died. Later, the romantics of the time would flock here in search of wilderness and solitude.

Today, it’s one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers, who come every year in search of adrenaline and dreamlike panoramas.

This three-stage Collection is designed for people with a certain amount of mountain experience who are used to steep slopes. However, the terrain, although sometimes very narrow, is not very difficult although you will be carrying a rucksack. Trekking poles are great for making the task easier.

If you want to secure a place in the huts, book well in advance, especially if you plan to go in summer. Otherwise, you’ll have to camp next to the huts and bring a tent and sleeping bag.

The best time to hike these routes is between spring and autumn; after that, snow will make many passes impassable. In any case, I recommend you ask at the visitor centre in Torla, where they will be able to inform you of the current conditions.

Also check the weather forecast; the weather in the high mountains is highly changeable and storms are frequent in summer. Plan your meals, take plenty of water and sun protection: once you get above a certain altitude, the vegetation disappears and it’s difficult to protect yourself from the sun.

Remember that access to Ordesa Meadow by private vehicle is restricted at Easter, in summer (from June to November), and during the Pilar Bridge. On these dates, you can only get there by bus from Torla-Ordesa or by walking some 7 kilometres (4 mi) along the old Turieto road. Bus tickets can be purchased at the visitor centre, where you can park for free.

The important thing about this trip is that you enjoy it, so you can personalise it using the template below.