Overview
The Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park is located at the north of Huesca province in Aragon. It covers over 15,000ha and includes one of the highest peaks in the Pyrenees, the Monte Pedido (3,355m) which is topped with a glacier. It is a hiker’s paradise with trails to suit all abilities.
Walking
Access to the National Park is free except during Easter holidays and from the 1st June to the Pilar Holidays. During this time, a bus service based in Torla is set up to reach the valley of Ordesa; it is forbidden to travel there by car, so as to limit the number of people and vehicles going to the Park. There are Interpreting Centres in the area of the National Park which offer information regarding the most advisable outings, nature, traditions, access routes, limitations and documents that may be useful for the visitor. The best times to visit are in Spring through to Autumn, bearing in mind the heat of Spain’s summers. During winter the park is covered in snow. There are also mountain huts that are maintained for hikers.
Sightseeing
There are many beautiful waterfalls which are part of the Arazas River which weaves its way through the park. One of the most famous is the "Horse’s Tail". Other waterfalls worth visiting are the Traveler’s Stop, the steps of Soaso and Estrecho, and the Rainbow or the Torrombotera.
Geology
Most of the rock of the National Park is limestone. The park is dominated by the massiff of the Three "Sorores", "Treserols"; the tallest being the "Monte Perdido". The valleys have been carved out by glaciers over thousands of years
Animals/Birds
The birdlife in the park is vast with around 170 species recorded, including golden eagles and royal eagles, the common vulture. Mammals include ibex, wild boar, otters and foxes. There are other species like the marmot, boar and the Pyrenean Desman or water-mole.
Plants
The vegetation is lush, with forests of beach, pine, alba and some birch. Above the tree line, many seasonal wildflowers including edelweiss, gentians, orchids, violets, belladonna, and anemones, can be found in the meadows. |
