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Getting the most out of your visit To get most out of your visit to Huesca, travel from north-south or south-north as the greatest differences in landscape, climate, geology, flora and fauna are found along a north-south axis (rather than east to west). The three main regions – that of the Pyrenees, the Sierras Exteriores and the dry lowlands – are orientated north-south. In the Pyrenees, you’ll want to decide in which valley(s) to spend your time. See page 166 for an overview of the differences between the Pyrenean valleys. Choosing times of day: If butterflies are your main target, then get out into the field around 10 AM and return at the end of the afternoon as this regime coincides with their periods of greatest activity. For photographers the earlier part of the day, when the insects are less active, can be most productive. However, the other times of the day can bring surprises so vary your routine from time to time to get maximum benefit from your explorations. Dawn best to see steppe birds and, in spring, it is the time in which most birds sing. Nocturnal mammals (Foxes, Wild Cat) are still active. For mammals, drive slowly along the minor roads, with headlights on full beam, to see what turns up. Routes 1, 3, 4, 5 and 11 are rewarding. First 1-2 hours of light still excellent for birds. Snakes and lizards sun themselves on rocks and tarmac. 4-5 hours after sunrise still good for reptiles. Raptors and Alpine Swifts begin to stir and are often still low and easily seen. Mid-morning-Afternoon raptor activity is at its peak. Butterfl ies and dragonfl ies are active. All wildflowers have opened. Last hours before sunset Birds sing again. Nocturnal snakes and lizards warm themselves on rocks and tarmac. Dusk Owls and nightjars become active. On moist evenings, amphibians are visible on the roads. Nocturnal mammals become active.
Shops – Opening hours Shops (except large supermarkets) open between 8:00 and 9:00, then close at about 14:00, and re-open from 17:00 to close at 20:00 or 21:00. During the long lunch break, most bars and restaurants serve a simple menu (menu del dia) which has an excellent price/quality ratio, with three courses, including wine, bread and water between € 10.00 to € 20.00.
CROSSBILL GUIDES • SPANISH PYRENEES