Overview
The Posets-Maladeta Nature Reserve is located in the north easterly part of the Aragonese Pyrennees. The Reserve is a group of mountains which includes some of the highest summits in the Iberian Peninsula. The protected area is located high up - between 1,500 metres at the bottom of the valley and 3,404 metres at the summit of Aneto (the highest point of the Reserve). Because of its height, it has great ecological importance, stunning landscapes and is rich with diverse flora and fauna.
Walking
Information about trails in the area can be obtained through the Benasque Valley Tourism Association. During winter, the area is popular with winter sports tourists.
Sightseeing
The Nature Reserve extends over the townships of Benasque, Gistaín, Montanuy, Sahún and San Juan de Plan. Benasque is a typical mountain village. A gentle walk around the streets of the historic quarter will take you to old houses such as Casa Juste and the Palace of the Counts of Ribagorza.
Geology
One of the most outstanding values of this National Reserve is the glacier formation of its mountains. They have been carved out leaving the remains of moraines, with many rocks or small lakes as souvenirs of cirques, to which must be added the numerous karstic phenomena.
Animals/Birds
The reserve is home many animals and birds. These include the birds of prey golden eagle, vulture, bearded vulture and mammals, bears, otters, chamois, roe deer and wild boar.
Plants
The valleys are covered with pines and firs. Further up in the upper reaches the predominant vegetation is herbaceous and suited to rocky ground. |
