Central Pyrenees travel information and video

Central Pyrenees

The Central Pyrenees are located in the region of Aragon, extending westward from the Aran Valley in Catalonia, to the Somport pass; they are home to some of the highest summits in the whole range, including Pico d’Aneto, Posets peak and Mont Perdu.

In the region you find the magnificent landscape of the Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Mount Perdido (The Ordesa and Lost Mountain National Park) in the region of Ordesa; here nature and outdoor lovers will find a natural environment second to none.

History
There are many legends and myths about the birth of the Pyrenees; in Classical Mythology the princess Pyrene gives her name to the Pyrenees. The Greek historian Herodotus said Pyrene is the name of a town in Celtic Europe. And according to Silius Italicus, the Roman consul, she was the daughter of Bebryx, a king in Mediterranean Gaul, who gave hospitality to the hero Hercules and had his hospitality disrespected by Hercules, which ends in the death of Pyrene.

Whatever are the facts, the region of the Pyrenees is an ancient and mystical region; older than the Alps, the Pyrenees exude a magical and spiritual atmosphere.

Torla
In the heart of the Spanish Central Pyrenees, lies Torla, the gateway to the dramatic National Park of Ordesa and Monte Perdido, with its spectacular scenery and walks. For the more adventurous, white water rafting, mountain biking, horse riding, canoeing, canyoning, and a via ferrata can all be arranged locally.

There is a newly built National Park Visitors Centre in the area of Torla. During peak holiday periods a shuttle bus runs from here into the Ordesa National Park. Outside these times the park can be reached by car (8km) or by foot (throughout the year), a beautiful 2 hour hike from the nearest accommodation. There are dozens of possibilities for spectacular walk.

Locally there is a broad spectrum of flora: Beech, birch, poplar, oak and pine, thrive here. From late September to late November is a special time here; the colours of the trees are beautiful, it is no wonder artists and photographers from all over the world come to try and capture the colours of this natural landacape.

In this part of the Pyrenees, spring usually lasts from April to June, and is particularly beautiful with over 1500 species of wild flower to be found. A ramble through the local countryside presents a fabulous variety of flowers.

Fauna is also abundant; of the larger birds, golden eagles, red kites, lammergeiers, griffon and Egyptian vultures can all be seen. Plus red squirrels, marmots and chamois inhabit the area.

For the more adventurous, white water rafting, mountain biking, horse riding, canoeing, canyoning, and via ferrata can all be arranged locally, dependant on the time of year.

In the winter cross-country skiing is available at Fanlo, just 30 minutes away. Downhill skiing is also an option at Panticosa and Formigal, 45 minutes away. Snow shoe walking can be done from the accommodation and in the National Park.

Times to other towns by car from Torla; 5 mins to Broto for petrol and medical centre, 50 mins to the moorish walled town of Ainsa. 60 mins to Jaca and then on to the valley of Anso. 90 mins to the provincial capital of Huesca. 80 mins to the spectacular National Park of Sierra de Guara.