Hike Pyrenees 2015 walking holiday brochure by Phillip James

Summer 2015

Guided walking holidays Our small team of knowledgeable guides will show you the best the Pyrenees have to offer. We organise routes, accommodation, meals and transport leaving you free to relax and enjoy your walking.

Friendly personal holidays Welcome to Hike Pyrenees - the specialists in walking holidays in the Spanish Pyrenees. The Pyrenees are one of Europe’s best kept secrets and combine stunning scenery with great weather. We’re based in the Aragonese and western Pyrenees in the heart of the range surrounded by spectacular high peaks.

Local knowledge Phil and Anna live in the Pyrenees year round, know the area intimately and have sought out the best hotels and villages ensuring you have a superb holiday. We know the region’s history, it’s legends, wildlife and of course all the best walks.

Small groups We specialise in small group holidays - you won’t be trudging along in a long line of people on any of our walks.

Contents Guided walking holidays

Self Guided walking holidays

Valle de Tena

Ordesa National Park

The Pre-Pyrenees - New for 2015 28

Hike Pyrenees is run by Phil and Anna. We’re a small independent walking company that offers friendly and personal holidays. We’re passionate about the area and love showing people the best the Pyrenees have to offer.

Basque Country and Navarra

Location

Accommodation

Private group holidays

Booking conditions

We have different grades of walking holidays to suit all levels of walkers including our popular dual level holidays which offer two walks of different grades each day. Page 4

Self guided walking holidays Perfect if you like to explore the hills on your own. Take advantage of our local knowledge to get straight to the best walks. We’ve route descriptions for over 200km of the best trails in the area. We organise your accommodation and provide detailed route descriptions, maps and picnic lunches. During the week we offer advice on which routes would suit you best. Page 6

Location The Aragonese Pyrenees are home to the highest mountains and most spectacular scenery in the range and we’re right in the heart of them.

Holidays guaranteed to run Unlike many large tour operators we never cancel holidays due to low numbers so you can reserve your flights with confidence as soon as you book.

Guests return every year We’re delighted to say many of our guests come back to the Pyrenees. We love to see guests again and it must mean we’re doing something right!

Hotel to hotel walking These are very popular self guided walking holidays. We transport your bags each day so you just walk with a day pack. Our Village to Village holiday through the medieval villages of the Valle de Tena has superb scenery and hotels. The Camino de Santiago northern route follows the Basque coastline and is full of history as you follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims that have passed this way for centuries. Page 16

Meet the team

HOW TO BOOK

We’ve a small team of experienced, qualified, professional mountain guides and leaders.

Booking your Hike Pyrenees holiday is straightforward.

Qualified guides

We work with a small team of experienced guides and every day you’ll be led by a qualified guide. You can be assured that you’ll be safe on the mountain with them and that their experience will enhance your time in the Pyrenees.

If you’d like any advice on which holiday would suit you best then please give us a call and we’d be glad to help.

Phil & Anna Phil and Anna founded Hike Pyrenees in 2007 and have lived in the Pyrenees year round for 8 years. A qualified international mountain leader Phil leads many of the walks himself. Anna makes everything runs smoothly during the season manning the office while we are in the hills enjoying ourselves!

Hannah A keen climber and hiker Hannah’s been working with Hike Pyrenees for five years. During the winter Hannah works with Ken running winter courses in Scotland. She’s a qualified international mountain leader with a keen interest in alpine flora.

To check the availability of any of our holidays drop us an email at info@hikepyrenees.co.uk, call us on +44 (0)208 123 5049 or go to our website.

2 Ken

Javier

Ken has bags of experience in the Alps and Scotland and will be joining us for his third season in the Pyrenees next summer. A member of the Association of Mountain Instructors Ken holds the Mountain Instructor Certificate as well as the International Mountain Leader. In winter Ken runs ice climbing courses in Scotland.

Our Basque specialist Javier is based in San Sebastian and organises our Camino de Santiago holidays and our guided tours in the Western Pyrenees.

Arkaitz A hugely experienced Basque mountain guide. Arkaitz speaks excellent English and joins us on several trips during the season including the Refugio Week.

Follow us online We’re always out and about in the Pyrenees and posting photos of our trips, the latest conditions in the mountains and about the history and nature of the area. You can find us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or follow our blog.

facebook.com/hikepyrenees @hikepyrenees

Complete the booking form online at : www.hikepyrenees.co.uk/booking

We require a £75 deposit per person which can be paid by cheque, bank transfer or by credit/debit card.

We’ll send you a booking confirmation straight away. The balance of your holiday is due six weeks before departure - we’ll send you a reminder and your holiday information pack at this time.

google.com/+HikepyreneesCoUk

skype: hikepyrenees

Guided holidays Our guided walking holidays make sure you get the most out of your stay in the Pyrenees. Our team of qualified guides have a superb knowledge of the local area. We can take you straight to the most beautiful spots, many of which are off the beaten track and often we'll have the mountains to ourselves.

Small group holidays Our policy of only taking small groups means you’ll never be in a long line of walkers. It also gives us the flexibility to alter the itinerary according to the groups needs and is key to us giving you a fantastic week of walking.

Walking grades

Dual Level Walking Our dual level holidays are very popular. On these we offer two guided walks each day - a shorter option and a longer harder day in the mountains. We talk through the walks for the following day in the evening and each morning you can decide which walk you’d like to join. Dual level holidays are perfect if you’re not sure which level would suit you best, if you’d like to do a couple of longer days but don’t want to commit to a whole week of hard hikes or for couples or friends that walk at differing levels. Our Valle de Tena Explorer (page 12) and Discover Ordesa (page 22) holidays offer dual level walking.

We offer four grades of walking holidays with itineraries to suit all levels of walkers.

Grade 1: Relaxed

Grade 2: Moderate

Grade 3: Strenuous

Grade 4: Challenging

Walks: 5-7 hours Ascent: 300-600 metres Paths: Good paths, not steep

Walks: 6-8 hours Ascent: 450-750 metres Paths: Good paths with some steeper sections

Walks: 7-10 hours Ascent: 700-1000 metres Paths: Rocky, steeper paths

Walks: 7-10 hours Ascent: 700-1500 metres Paths: Steep!

Walks are at a relaxed pace (we’re big fans of two lunch breaks!) and there’s plenty of time to take in the scenery around you. Paths are good and not too steep.

Walks are still at a relaxed pace and on good paths however we tackle some steeper sections. The ascents are a bit longer and we’ll take in some summits.

For those that like long days in the high mountains. These routes are steep in places and we venture into much rockier and rougher terrain. Some routes have sections of easy scrambling.

We’ll pass through areas with superb flora. If you’re a fairly fit and active person these walks should be fine for you.

Again this grade of walking should be fine for any reasonably fit and active person.

A good level of fitness and some previous hiking experience is required for these hikes.

Tough overnight hikes staying in mountain huts (refugios). These routes take you into high mountain terrain on steep rocky paths. Although the days are not much longer than grade 3 we are in more remote terrain for several days at a time.

A good level of fitness and previous hiking experience is essential for this hikes.

We take care of everything With our guided walking holidays we look after everything, meaning that you can just relax and enjoy the walking, scenery and your holiday. The day starts with a choice of cooked or continental breakfast. A generous picnic lunch (with homemade cake!) is provided. After each walk we have a briefing (usually over a cold beer) where we discuss the following day. Transfers are provided to and from Zaragoza airport or train station on Sundays either to meet the Ryan Air flight from Stansted or the train from Barcelona or Madrid.

NEW FOR 2015

Riglos & Alquezar Grade Hike amongst the towering cliffs of Riglos and the canyons of Alquezar. A two centre holiday in the Pre-Pyrenees where the weather is perfect for hiking in April and May. Wonderful accommodation. See page 30

DUAL LEVEL HOLIDAYS Valle de Tena Explorer

Discover Ordesa

Dual Grade

Either explore the beautiful alpine meadows of the Valle de Tena or tackle some of the challenging peaks in the area. Stunning scenery and fantastic hotel with pool and sauna.

Discover the spectacular Ordesa National Park and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kilometre deep canyons. Dramatic scenery, the highlight being a walk along the rim of the canyon.

See page 12

See page 22

SINGLE LEVEL HOLIDAYS Lakes & Valleys

Western Pyrenees

Grade

Relaxed walking in the Valle de Tena. Walk through beautiful alpine meadows with peaks towering above. Perfect for wild flower enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Where the Pyrenees rise from the sea. This is a land full of history and tradition where idyllic hamlets nestle under the peaks. A two centre holiday exploring two different valleys.

See page 10

See page 36

Peaks & Passes

Refugio Week

Grade

Challenging hiking tackling some of the best trails and peaks in the Pyrenees. Rugged terrain, tough days but views that make the effort worthwhile! Based in the Valle de Tena

Hike one of the best sections of the GR11 and summit Monte Perdido in the centre of the Ordesa National Park. Demanding hiking in rugged high mountain terrain.

See page 14

See page 24

Self guided holidays Our self guided walking holidays are designed to help you enjoy the Pyrenees on your own and get straight to the best hikes in the area. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve a choice of villages in either the Ordesa National Park or the Valle de Tena.

We take the hard work out of organising your holiday by arranging accommodation, providing detailed route cards, maps, weather forecasts and picnic lunches. Several times during the week we visit the hotel to offer advice and talk through your options for the following day.

Hotel to hotel holidays

Single centre holidays

On our Camino de Santiago and Village to Village holidays you walk between hotels each day. These holidays are very popular and you get a great sense of journey as you either walk along the coast or up the Valle de Tena.

We offer single centre self guided holidays in the Valle de Tena and the Ordesa National Park - both wonderful places to hike.

We move your luggage meaning you just need to walk with a small day pack. The Village to Village itinerary has two walking options each day so you can make the holiday easier or harder to suit.

In the Valle de Tena you can choose from Hotel Almud in Sallent de GĂĄllego or the 4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas in Biescas. For the Ordesa National Park the 4* Hotel Ordesa is superbly placed at the entrance of the valley.

Self Catering Apartments

Choose between full board with picnic lunches provided or bed and breakfast.

In Biescas we also offer one and two bedroom self catering apartments in the lovely Rincon de Andrea. Each is well furnished and equipped with microwave, hob, washing machine, fridge, TV and DVD player.

You can combine a holiday staying at two different hotels - a combination that works very well is Hotel Almud followed by Hotel Ordesa. Biescas gives you access to both the Valle de Tena and Ordesa.

Pyrenees information pack Before your holiday we'll send you a full planning pack. This contains the most accurate hiking map of the area, a hiking guide for the area and a 30 page Pyrenees guide full of information about the flora, fauna, geology and history of the area. The hiking guide contains summaries for over 200km of the best hikes in the area, a recommended kit list and everything you need to know about your holiday.

Easy to follow route cards On arrival you’ll receive a pack of easy to follow route cards for each trail. These give detailed directions along with the length of walk, height gain and what you’ll see on the way. We’ve a huge choice of routes ranging from easy rambles through to long days in the higher mountains so there’s something for everyone. We live locally and are walking these trails every week so our route cards are up to date and accurate and we can advise you on current conditions of the paths.

Arrive on any day

HOTEL TO HOTEL SELF GUIDED Village to Village

Camino de Santiago

Grade

Wonderful hiking between the villages of the Valle de Tena. Spectacular scenery, beautiful hotels and a choice of two walks each day - an easier and a harder option.

Follow in the footsteps of centuries of Pilgrims on the way to Santiago. This northern route of the Camino takes in a one week section following the dramatic Basque coastline.

See page 16

See page 34

SINGLE CENTRE SELF GUIDED Ordesa Self Guided

Valle de Tena Self Guided

Let us help you discover the best the Ordesa National Park has to offer. We’ll show you not only the famous paths but the little walked gems many people leave without getting to know.

The mix of peaks, lakes and meadows are a walkers paradise with a huge choice of routes for levels. We’ll get you straight to the best of them with our maps and advice. Choice of two villages with hotel and self catering options.

See page 26

Our self guided holidays are totally flexible and you can arrive and depart on any day you wish, staying as long as you like. For the Camino de Santiago and Village to Village holidays you don’t need a car during the week although lots of guests do arrive by car as it makes travel arrangements easier. For a single centre holiday you’ll need a car to make the most of the area.The roads are good and we provide driving directions. For information on getting to us see page 34 or give us a call.

See page 18

Which is best for me? The Valle de Tena and Ordesa National Park both offer fantastic walking but the terrain varies in the two areas. The Ordesa National Park is stunning with kilometre deep canyons and cliffs. There are walks of all levels in the park from very gentle through to strenuous hikes including some vertiginous cliff hugging paths. However the peaks in the park are not accessible to day hikers as they’re too high.

If you like reaching peaks then the Valle de Tena would suit you best. There are some superb summits to be reached here - some easy and some long days involving scrambling. The Valle de Tena also has excellent meadows, lakes and access to cultural walks passing medieval villages and monasteries for those that prefer gentler walks. The Camino de Santiago offers a very different coastal walking experience with beaches, cliffs and green rolling hills.

“We had a fantastic week hiking in the Valle de Tena. It’s amazing that in this small valley there is such a variety of hikes. Hike Pyrenees careful selection of hikes and excellent route directions made walking a pleasure.” Nory & Julio

Valle de Tena From it’s alpine meadows to it’s rocky three thousand metre peaks the Valle de Tena really does have walks to suit everyone. Deep wooded valleys with streams and waterfalls give way to bare rocky high mountain scenery as you climb towards the summits. The valley stretches twenty kilometres from the cliffs of the Sierra de Partacua and Tendeñera north to the French border and is flanked by numerous peaks on each side. Several deep sided valleys mean you’ll discover new views with each corner you turn. Traditional mountain villages with stone houses and winding streets are nestled amongst the mountains and our Village to Village self guided holiday stays in some beautiful tranquil spots.

1 2 3

Alpine meadows Wide flower-filled meadows lye under impressive cliffs and are perfect for walkers who prefer gentler days without forsaking wonderful scenery and views. Great walks follow bubbling mountain streams with waterfalls cascading down the sides of the valleys, others lead to mountain lakes or through wonderful beech and silver fir woods.

Challenging peaks One of the reasons we love the Valle de Tena is the huge choice of peaks it offers to day hikers. There are dozens of peaks between two and three thousand metres all with fantastic views. These hikes range from fairly gentle 5 or 6 hour round trips to some really big ascents up three thousand metre peaks and into wild high mountain scenery. The pointy summit of Pico Anayet is one of our favourites. It looks impossible when you first see it but an ingenious path - helped by a chain across one section - guides you quickly to the top for birds eye views across the valley.

Biescas - lively village At the southern end of the Valle de Tena, Biescas is perfectly positioned to reach several excellent and diverse walking areas including the Valle de Tena and the Ordesa Valley. Biescas makes a great base if you’d like to do a mix of walking during your week - a few higher peaks up the valley, some gentler walks between semiabandoned villages with Romanesque churches and a day over in the Ordesa Valley. It’s also an excellent option early or late in the season as there are excellent hikes south of Biescas which stay dry if the weather’s not so great further up the valley. At the heart of the village is the plaza - the centre of every Spanish village. Surrounding the plaza are several bars, cafes and restaurants. There are a few shops and all of the amenities you’ll need.

Sallent de Gállego Scenic mountain village Nestled under the high peak of Foratata, Sallent de Gállego is everything you imagine a mountain village to be. As you wander through it’s maze of narrow streets you get constant views of the mountains that surround you. With it’s twelfth century church and old stone houses Sallent de Gállego is very picturesque. There are several excellent walks that leave straight from the hotel. Although there are several good shorter walks in the area, Sallent de Gállego comes into it’s own for walkers who want to summit some of the higher peaks in the valley with lots of superb challenging routes on it’s doorstep.

Lakes & Valleys - 7 night guided walking holiday - Grade 1 - relaxed walking - Superb mountain scenery - 4* hotel with pool and sauna The Pyrenees are full of beautiful mountain lakes and green valleys. Our Lakes & Valleys holidays are ideal for those that prefer more relaxed days in the mountains. You’ll discover stunning secluded spots and meadows full of flowers as we show you some of the hidden treasures of the Pyrenees.

Relaxed walking This is a week of relaxed walks with the emphasis on finding quiet beautiful spots with breathtaking scenery, rather than scaling high peaks. Therefore the walks will not be overly strenuous and suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Our qualified guides are knowledgeable about the local area and in particular the flora and birdlife you’ll see while out in the mountains. The holiday is ideal for nature lovers with walks passing through meadows full of orchids, gentians and alpine flora - particularly in early summer. A number of the walks will pass through sites of historic interest such as the 10th century monastery of San Juan de la Peña. On the rest day we’ll visit Jaca, the ancient capital of Aragon, for a guided tour and an evening of tapas and vino.

Butterflies The quantity of wild flowers in the Pyrenees means plenty of butterflies too. Swallowtails, Red Admirals and Camberwell Beauties are among the bigger and more spectacular species that we see. Often dozens of small but brightly coloured blues rise up as we pass through puddles in which they are feeding. The Apollo (pictured) has delicate nearly translucent wings. The Ordesa authorities are worried about the parks population but it thrives in several areas of the Valle de Tena. It’s one of our favourites.

4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas Holidays are based at the excellent four star Hotel Tierra de Biescas. The hotel has excellent facilities with a sauna, indoor and outdoor pools set in lovely gardens which are great to relax in after a days walking. The lively village of Biescas makes an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding area. Read more about the hotel on page 36. The hotel serves an excellent buffet breakfast with cooked and continental options. Three course evening meals are taken at the hotel restaurant each evening apart from the rest day when we visit Jaca.

"Blue skies, bright sun, a bubbling brook, soaring cliff faces, snow topped mountains and the chime of cowbells; all this in the first hour of our week of walking." Iain and Mary-Anne

GUIDED WALKING

Itinerary During the week we visit several of the most beautiful areas in the region. One day will be spent exploring the dramatic scenery of the Ordesa National Park.

2015 Dates

Sunday

Sunday 24 May - 31 May Sunday 31 May - 7 June Sunday 19 July - 26 July Sunday 23 Aug - 30 August Sunday 27 September - 4 October

Biescas

Price

This is a sample itinerary - the exact routes will depend on the weather and what the group would like to achieve.

Arrive in Biescas from Zaragoza late evening. Short briefing over your evening meal.

£849 per person (based on two sharing) £89 Single supplement

Monday

Accommodation

Ibon de Piedrafita

7 nights in 4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas

Nestled in meadows under the cliffs of the Sierra de Partacua lies the Ibon de Piedrafita. A gentle climb takes us out of the woodland for superb views across the Valle de Tena.

Tuesday

San Juan de la Peña The cliffs around San Juan de la Peña are home to colonies of griffon vultures. We get close up views of these huge birds while enjoying superb vistas across the Pyrenees.

Wednesday

Valle de Ordesa The sheer cliffs of the Valle de Ordesa are an undisputable highlight of the Pyrenees. Following the Río Arazas we pass waterfalls before the woodland gives way to spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs.

Included meals 3 course evening meals (exc. rest day) Breakfast buffet each morning Picnic lunches on walking days

Thursday

Saturday

Rest day

Punta del Pacino

Spend a day in Biescas exploring the old town, take a short walk or relax around the hotel’s pool. In the evening we’ll visit the local town of Jaca for vino and tapas.

A beautiful ascent through woodland and meadows to the peak of Punta del Pacino. Its position at the centre of the valley gives fabulous panoramic views of the Valle De Tena and surrounding peaks.

Friday

Villages of the Serrablo A walk linking the medieval villages of the Serrablo. These pretty villages are famous for their 11th century romanesque churches. Lunch at the now abandoned village of Susín whose last inhabitant sadly died recently.

Sunday Free morning in Biescas before leaving early afternoon to catch the flight from Zaragoza.

Guided Walking - Grade 1 5 days fully guided walking. Walks are 5 to 7 hours each day. Daily ascents are between 350m to 600m on good paths that are not steep. Walks are at a relaxed pace.

Included Transfers To and from Zaragoza airport or train station on Sundays.

Not included Flights, insurance, drinks with evening meal, lunch and evening meal on rest day.

Valle de Tena Explorer - 7 night guided walking holiday

Choice of 2 walks each day

- Choice of two walks each day

Each day there will be two walks on offer. Simply decide which walk you’d like to join each morning.

- Dual level: grade 1 & grade 3 - 4* hotel with pool and sauna With alpine meadows and mountain lakes lying beneath spectacular peaks the Valle de Tena is a perfect walking destination for walkers of all levels. Our Valle de Tena Explorer holiday offers two walking options each day a lower level and a higher level walk. Choose which walk you’d like to join each morning.

The easier walks explore the beautiful meadows of the valley which have spectacular flora. Some hikes will also visit cultural and historical sites such as the 10th century monastery of San Juan de la Peña. These walks will be grade 1 or 2 and at a relaxed pace with plenty of time to enjoy the views. The paths are good and aren’t steep. Each day we’ll be walking between 5 to 7 hours. The higher level hikes reach some of the fantastic summits in the area. These will be longer days in high mountain terrain which will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views. These are grade 3 hikes of between 7 to 10 hours. There will be up to 1000m of ascent each day on fairly steep paths. On some days there will be some short sections of scrambling.

Marmots The Pyrenees are a great place to see marmots. Marmots became extinct in the Pyrenees around the end of the last ice age about twelve thousand years ago.

4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas Accommodation will be at the lovely 4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas located in the centre of the village of Biescas.

They were reintroduced in 1948 as a food source for golden eagles by French hunters - the eagles were taking too many chamois.

It makes a perfect place to relax after a days walking with an outdoor and indoor swimming pool and a sauna.

With a lack of natural predators the population has exploded to over 10,000 from an initial release of just 400.

Breakfast and three course evening meals are served at the hotels excellent restaurant. See page 36 for more hotel information.

“A winning combination of fantastic scenery and friendly and professional guides. I’ve had three Hike Pyrenees holidays and intend coming back for more.” Richard

GUIDED WALKING

Itinerary

Dual level

This sample itinerary shows the low and high level route options offered each day. The exact routes will depend on conditions.

Sunday Arrive in Biescas from Zaragoza late evening. Short briefing over your evening meal.

Monday

2015 Dates

Ibon de Piedrafita A beautiful lake nestled in meadows under the cliffs of the Sierra de Partacua. A gentle climb through woodland for views across the valley.

Sunday 7 June - 14 June Sunday 28 June - 5 July Sunday 26 July - 2 August Sunday 6 September - 13 September

Pic Peyreget (2487m)

Price

Starting at the high border pass we walk into France to the lovely summit of Pic Peyreget with fantastic views of Pic du Midi d’Ossau.

£849 per person (based on two sharing) £89 Single supplement

Tuesday

Valle de Aguas Limpias From the medieval village of Sallent de Gallego we follow the Rio Aguas Limpias (river of clean water) through woods and meadows.

Ibones de Arriel Passing through meadows and woodland we climb to a series of beautiful high mountain lakes surrounded by steep granite peaks.

Wednesday

Valle la Ripera The meadows of the valley are an excellent place to spot marmots. The valley ends in a towering headwall rising to the peaks above.

Montaña del Verde

Punta Balposata (2189m)

Accommodation

Walking under the cliffs of Sierra de Tendeñera to a wonderful summit viewpoint before passing the lake of Ibon de Sabacos on the way down.

A horseshoe ridge walk around the hanging valley of Sobremonte and over the peak of Balposata at the head of the valley.

7 nights in 4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas

Thursday

Saturday

Rest day

Punta del Pacino (1965m)

Spend a day in Biescas exploring the village, taking a short walk or relaxing around the pool. Evening visit to historical town of Jaca - the original capital of Aragon - for vino and tapas.

A beautiful ascent to the peak of Punta del Pacino. Its position at the centre of the valley gives fabulous panoramic views of the valley.

Friday

Villages of the Serrablo These medieval villages are famous for their 11th century Romanesque churches - some of the best preserved in Spain. Lunch at the now abandoned village of Susín who’s last inhabitant sadly died recently leaving.

Pico Anayet (2545m) This steep and exciting peak is reached by a scramble and passing over a section of chains - a good head for heights required!

Sunday Free morning in Biescas before leaving early afternoon for Zaragoza and a drop off at either the train station or airport.

Included meals 3 course evening meals (exc. rest day) Breakfast each day. Picnics on walking days

Dual level walking 5 days guided walking with 2 options each day. Walks: Lower level - 5 to 7 hours each day Higher level - 6 to 10 hours each day Ascents: Lower level - 300m to 600m Higher level - 700m to 1200m Lower level walks are at a relaxed pace.

Included Transfers To and from Zaragoza airport or train station

Not included Flights, insurance, drinks with evening meal, lunch and evening meal on rest day.

Peaks & Passes - 7 night guided walking holiday - Grade 3: Strenuous hiking - Spectacular summit hikes - Charming mountain hotel A superb week of challenging hiking on some of the best trails and peaks in the Pyrenees. We’ll scale fantastic summits each day with spectacular views and venture into the rugged, rocky wilderness of the high Pyrenees. The holiday is based at Sallent de Gállego - a beautiful village nestled amongst the high peaks.

Strenuous hiking We visit some superb rocky peaks during the week with panoramic views for miles around. If you like high mountain scenery and long days in the hills this is the holiday for you. It’s a fairly strenuous weeks hiking with some long days and a good level of fitness is required. The Pyrenees are renowned for steep climbs and you should be capable of ascents of over one thousand metres. However we remember you are on holiday and one or two days will feature slightly less strenuous hikes. Paths are generally good but there will be some exposed sections and some easy scrambling and sure-footedness is required. Each day we’ll walk between seven to ten hours.

Charming mountain hotel An ancient volcano Pico Anayet is a spectacular pointy peak and initially looks pretty formidable. However with the help of some chains and a bit of scrambling you soon gain the summit for birds-eye views. The mountain is an ancient volcano - one of several in the area including Pic du Midi d’Ossau. It doesn’t have a classic volcano conical shape as it’s so old the cone part has been completely eroded away. All that remains is the lava core which has transformed to a rock called andesite. On the route you can see huge conglomerate boulders that were part of the old lava flow.

You’ll stay at Hotel Almud - a wonderful stone building set in the winding streets of Sallent de Gállego. Mariano and Marie-Jose are your hosts in this friendly family-run hotel with just 11 rooms. The hotel is fantastically decorated throughout with the bedrooms beautifully converted all with en-suite bathrooms and mountain views. There is a living room and reading area with sofas and a stone fireplace where you can relax. Breakfasts are taken at the hotel. Evening meals are taken at Casa Jaimico which is just 100 metres from the hotel and has an excellent menu with many local dishes.

“Hike Pyrenees were exceptional, having done many walking trips it was surprising to hit upon a company that clearly stand above the rest. Knowledge, care and quality were well above other walking companies.” Phil & Matt

GUIDED WALKING

Itinerary Walks will explore the Valle de Tena which has a great variety of fantastic hiking.

2015 Dates

This is a sample itinerary and the exact routes will depend on the weather and what the group would like to achieve.

Sunday 12 July - 19 July Sunday 23 August - 30 August Sunday 20 September - 27 September

Sunday

Price

Sallent de Gállego

£849 per person (based on two sharing) £89 Single supplement

Arrive in Sallent de Gállego from Zaragoza late evening. Short briefing over your evening meal.

Accommodation

Monday

7 nights in 2* Hotel Almud

Punta del Pacino (1965m)

Included meals

Walking straight from the hotel we begin the week with a circular walk through woods and alpine meadows to the summit of Punta del Pacino for fantastic panoramic views across the valley.

3 course evening meals (exc. rest day) Breakfast buffet each day Picnic lunches on walking days

Guided Walking - Grade 3

Tuesday

Pic Peyreget (2487m) Starting at the high border pass we hike in the French Pyrenees to the superb summit of Peyreget. We walk through alpine meadows before crossing a boulderfield and reaching the summit for superb views over the iconic peaks of Pic du Midi d’Ossau, Balaitús and Los Picos del Infiernos.

Thursday

Saturday

Rest day

Garmo Negro (3066m)

Wednesday

Spend a day exploring Sallent de Gállego, take a dip in the pool or go on a hike from the village. Evening visit to Jaca for vino and tapas.

Ibones de Arriel

Friday

Some of the most beautiful lake landscapes in the Pyrenees can be found at Ibones de Arriel. The four lakes, lying at different heights, are surrounded by steep granite peaks.

Pico Anayet (2545m)

Overlooking Panticosa this three thousander makes for an excellent finale to the week. Superb summit views along the Pyrenees chain. An optional side trip takes us on an excellent scramble along a ridge to the summit of Argulas.

Set on a high plateau of peaty grasslands we find Ibon de Anayet. From here we can tackle the steep and exciting Pico Anayet passing a set of chains to reach the summit.

Sunday Free morning in Sallent before leaving early afternoon for a drop off at Zaragoza train station or airport.

5 days fully guided walking with small groups of 8 maximum. Walks are 7 to 10 hours each day. Daily ascents are between 700m and 1200m Although walks are on paths there are some steep and exposed sections. Some days have a short scrambles and more difficult terrain.

Included Transfers To and from Zaragoza on Sunday evenings to meet Ryan Air flight from Stansted or train from Barcelona or Madrid.

Not included Flights, lunch and evening meal on rest day.

Village to Village - 7 night self guided holiday

Two route choices each day

- 2 walking options each day

Each day there are two route choices - a longer and a shorter option. The routes get well out of the valley floor and into the mountains - particularly the high level routes where you reach some rugged high mountain terrain.

- Luggage moved every day - Mountain hotels and villages Hotel to hotel walking along the length of the Valle de Tena, staying at different villages during the week. We transport your luggage each day meaning you just have to walk with a small daypack. A wonderful route with fantastic views throughout the week and a real sense of journey as you head up the valley. You’ll stay at traditional Pyrenean villages with narrow winding streets and stone houses centred around medieval churches.

The walks cover a reasonable distance with 11km to 14km walked each day on the easier options and up to 20km on the longer routes. The routes are on good paths and the only steep ascents are on the harder options. Detailed maps and route cards are provided for both options each day. On the first evening you’ll have a briefing to talk you through the routes, options, weather and answer any questions that you have.

Accommodation 2 night Ordesa extension Get a taste of the Ordesa National Park with our 2 night Ordesa extension. Just enough time to walk a couple of the famous paths in the kilometre deep valley. 2 nights staying at 4* Hotel Ordesa with breakfast, picnic lunch and evening meal are included. We’ll brief you on the all the best hikes in the valley and provide detailed route descriptions. May, June, Sep, Oct July, Aug

£150 per person £170 per person

Hotels are superb throughout the week, in particular the hotels in Sallent de Gallego and Sandinies are full of character. Rooms are en-suite throughout the week.

Hotel Almud (Sallent) Charming hotel in the centre of the picturesque village of Sallent de Gállego. Fantastically decorated with a lovely lounge and breakfast area and 11 beautifully furnished rooms. Evening meals are taken at restaurant one minute walk from hotel. See page 36 for more details.

Casa Pelentos (Sandinies) It’s hard to think of a more tranquil place to stay than the tiny village of Sandinies. It’s stone

buildings all have fantastic views over the valley. Another charming and friendly hotel with just 7 rooms and a renowned restaurant. Please note Casa Pelentos is closed in May and you’ll stay in 4* El Privilegio at nearby Tramacastilla.

Hotel Tierra de Biescas Your base for the first and final nights. Excellent 4* hotel with outdoor pool and sauna. See page 36 for more details.

Hotel Casa Morlans Family run hotel in the centre of the village. It’s a friendly, comfortable hotel and makes an ideal base for walking holidays. Two star hotel with 25 rooms. Rooms at the back of the hotel have balconies with mountain views. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms.

SELF GUIDED

Itinerary Day 1

2015 Dates

Biescas

The Village to Village holiday is available all summer. Arrive and depart on any day you wish.

Arrive in Biescas spending the night at the 4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas. Briefing in the evening about the week ahead, going over the route and giving you a chance to ask any questions.

Price

Day 2

Biescas to Panticosa Heading north you pass under the cliffs of the Sierra de Tendeñera and see the valley open up before you. The route’s full of history as you pass a dolmen, the scenic church of Santa Elena and bunkers built by Franco to defend against invasion through the Pyrenees. Option of a lift to Santa Elena shortening the day by 7km. Spend the night at Hotel Casa Morlans. Distance : 20km, ascent: 750m Distance (with lift to Santa Elena): 13km, 600m

Day 3

Day hike from Panticosa Choice of two circular routes. The shorter option passes through lovely woodland into the meadows of the Valle la Ripera. Longer option crosses a 2000 metre col, under the 700 metre high cliffs of the Tendeñera. Night at Casa Morlans. Shorter option: distance: 14km, ascent: 500m Longer option: distance: 20km, ascent: 1100m

“Thanks to the excellent route notes, varied scenic routes and friendly hospitality this was our best walking holiday ever! We’ll be back” Duncan & Lynne

Day 6

Sallent to Sandiniés Day 4

Panticosa to Sallent Continuing into the northern half of the valley you have the option of an easier half day’s walk around the Elmbase de Lanuza and spending an afternoon in picturesque Sallent. Alternatively climb steeply to the viewpoint of La Cucuraza for birds eye view back down to Panticosa and then across the whole valley. Night at Hotel Almud. Shorter option: distance: 11km, ascent: 200m Longer option: distance: 15km, ascent: 800m

Day 5

Walk from Sallent Spectacular hiking along the Rio Aguas Limpias the river of clean water. Pass waterfalls and gorges to a meadow high in a steep sided valley. The harder option continues to a set of high mountain lakes set amongst spectacular mountain scenery. Second night at Hotel Almud. Shorter option: distance: 12km, ascent: 450m Longer option: distance: 19km, ascent: 900m

Cross to the western side of the valley and begin heading south. Optional side trips to two summits including Punta del Pacino (1965m) for panoramic views across the valley. Spend the night in the tiny village of Sandiniés at Casa Pelentos. Distance: 15km, ascent: 700m With side trips to summits: 18km, ascent 1000m

Party size 2 or 3 4 or more 10 May - 1 August £749 £699 2 August - 31 August £799 £749 31 August - 31 Oct £749 £699 Single supplement: £99 Transfers to/from Zaragoza: £75 Prices are person and based on two sharing. Minimum party size is 2 people

Accommodation 2 nights Hotel Tierra de Biescas 2 nights Hotel Casa Morlans (Panticosa) 2 nights Hotel Almud (Sallent de Gallego) 1 night Casa Pelentos (Sandinies)

Included meals

Day 7

3 course evening meals every night Breakfast and picnic lunches each day

Sandiniés to Piedrafita

Self Guided Walking

One route passes through the woods of Betato before climbing to the lake of Ibon de Piedrafita nestled under the vast cliffs of the Sierra de Partacua. The longer route takes a longer track through higher meadows to the lake. Both finish at the village of Piedrafita where you’ll be picked up for a short transfer back to Hotel Tierra de Biescas. Shorter option: 14km, ascent 400m Longer option: 20km, ascent 650m

Walking is self guided and detailed route descriptions will be provided for each days walk including any optional side trips.

Day 8

Flights and insurance. Transfers (available at additional charge). Wine with evening meal only included at Hotel Casa Morlans.

Final morning spent in Biescas before departing for your onward journey.

Transfers Transfers not included. Can be added to and from Zaragoza airport or train station for £75 return per person - only on Sundays

Not included

Self Guided: Valle de Tena - Get straight to the best hikes - Easy to follow route cards - Choice of hotels or apartments - Arrive and depart on any day The peaks, lakes and meadows of the Valle de Tena make for a walkers paradise with a huge choice of routes at all levels. There are some spectacular summits to conquer and flower filled meadows in which you can relax and take in the scenery. Our self guided walking holidays get you straight to the best hikes with our easy to follow route cards and advice.

A stress free holiday We take the hard work out of arranging your holiday by arranging accommodation, providing detailed route cards, maps, weather forecasts and picnic lunches. Our advice, recommended routes and local knowledge means you’ll be able to get to the best hikes from day one. Our self guided holidays are very flexible - you can arrive on whichever day you like and stay for as many nights as you want (minimum stay 3 nights). Although the walking is close by you’ll need a car to make the most of your time in the Pyrenees. Most of our guests hire cars from Barcelona or Zaragoza. From the UK taking a couple of days driving through France or taking the ferry to Bilbao or Santander are also good options. If you need any information on travel see page 35 or give us a call.

Pirineos Sur music festival Acts from around the world perform on a floating stage during the Pirineos Sur world music festival which takes place in the last three weeks of July. It’s a great time to visit with lots going on - particularly in Sallent de Gállego. It’s a great festival attracting some of the finest artists from Africa, South and Central America. Monday to Thursday there is a free concert and a lively market each night in Sallent de Gállego with the main events taking place at the weekends in the nearby village of Lanuza.

Easy to follow routecards We’ve route cards for all of the best walks in the valley. There’s a huge choice of walks of all distances ranging from gentle walks in alpine meadows to long days in the high mountains. As well as easy to follow directions for each walk we give accurate distances and ascents and let you know what the ground is like underfoot. We’re around during the week to offer advice on which walks would suit you best and answer any of your questions. We live in the area year round and walk these routes regularly with groups so you can be confident that our route cards will always be up to date and accurate.

“Thanks for an excellent holiday - your local knowledge, excellent route maps, hotel choice and your generous help made the very most of the 5 days we had to explore the area. Great variety of walks and plenty more to see when we come back again!” Brian and Amanda

Choice of two villages

SELF GUIDED

Choose between two excellent bases for walking, Biescas at the southern end of the valley and Sallent de Gállego nestled in the high mountains near the French border.

2015 Dates Self guided holidays are available throughout the summer.

Both villages are full of character with old churches, stone houses and winding streets. Biescas is the slightly bigger and livelier of the two. In Biescas you can either stay in the luxurious Hotel Tierra de Biescas with a pool and sauna or self catering apartments.

Prices Hotel Almud (Sallent de Gállego) 1 May - 16 July 17 July - 5 Sep 5 Sep - 31 Oct Single supplement:

Sallent de Gállego is an excellent choice if you’re looking do tackle some of the higher peaks in the valley as it’s close to all of the longer walks. You’ll be well looked after at the charming Hotel Almud.

Self Catering Apartments

Ideal for those that want to have a bit of luxury or relax by the pool after a days hiking. The lively village of Biescas has a good selection of restaurants and bars.

The spacious Rincon de Andrea self catering apartments are based in Biescas. One or two bedroom apartments are available and each has a lounge/diner, bathroom and great views.

Hotel Almud

All are well equipped with washing machine, TV, DVD player, microwave, hob, fridge, kettle, toaster and free Wi-Fi internet connection.

Friendly, comfortable, family run hotel in the high mountain village of Sallent de Gállego and an ideal base for walking holidays. Centred around the 13th century church, Sallent de Gállego is picturesque village surrounded by high mountain peaks. Being in the higher mountains, Hotel Almud makes a perfect base for those looking for long days in the higher peaks although there are plenty of gentler walks nearby too. For more details on the hotels see page 36.

Full Board £599 £649 £599

4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas (Biescas) B&B £549 £629 £549

4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas Luxurious hotel set in lovely grounds with an outdoor and indoor pool and a sauna. The hotel is at the heart of the lively village of Biescas.

B&B £449 £499 £449 £99

For food shopping there are two small Spar supermarkets, butchers and bakers within walking distance and a large supermarket just 15 minutes drive away. If you’d like to eat out there is a good choice of restaurants in Biescas. Prices shown are for one and two bedroom apartments. In addition there are several other combinations available including triple rooms, sofa beds for additional occupants and extra rooms in the same building for larger groups - call for prices.

Self Catering Prices Rincon de Andrea (Biescas) Season: Low High 1 bedroom apartment £299 £349 (based on 2 people) 2 bedroom apartment £249 £299 (based on 4 people) All prices are per person and based on either two or four person occupation. High season is the 28 July - 25 August Up to 2 extra guests can be accommodated on sofa beds and receive a 50% discount. Prices are for a 7 night stay - for longer holidays prices are pro-rata the weekly rate. Minimum stay three nights.

Included Prices include gas, electricity, bed linen and towels (changed midweek).

Full Board £649 £749 £649

1 May - 17 July 18 July - 5 Sep 5 Sep - 31 Oct Single supplement: £89 low season, £109 high season All prices are person and are based on two people sharing. Prices are for a 7 night stay - for longer or shorter holidays prices are pro-rata the weekly rate.

Included meals Full board option includes 3 course evening meals with wine (wine not included at Hotel Tierra de Biescas), buffet breakfast and picnic lunches each day. B&B option includes a buffet breakfast - picnic lunches can be ordered from the hotel (at additional cost).

Not included Flights, insurance, airport transfers or transport to and from walks.

The Ordesa National Park Established in 1918 the Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido is Spain’s first national park and an undisputed highlight of the Pyrenees with some of the most magnificent scenery in Europe Kilometre deep canyons are carved into the limestone and lye beneath snowcapped peaks. At the centre of the park lies Monte Perdido - the third highest summit in the Pyrenees. Another dozen three thousand metre summits are strung along the French border along with the famous pass of Breche de Roland. In 1997 the park was made a UNESCO world heritage site for it’s incredible diversity of flora and fauna. If you’re a nature lover you’ll love the park which is famous for it’s birds of prey and one of the few remaining homes of the lammergeier - one of the largest vultures in Europe. Our nature guide to the area will help you identify what you’re seeing and let you know what to keep an eye out for.

The four deep canyons of the park offer dramatic walking and each canyon has trails of all lengths and difficulties. You can walk in the beautiful beech woods admiring the cliffs above or climb up to the dramatic ‘faja’ paths - narrow ledges that wind around the cliff faces. We offer guided and self guided holidays from Hotel Ordesa just outside Torla. It’s in a perfect position to explore the Ordesa Valley and the western side of the park. There’s a wonderful variety of hiking from walks at the bottom of the canyon to the alpine meadows surrounding Bujaruelo. Several walks leave directly from the hotel. The Añisclo Canyon also lies within the park. Even deeper than Ordesa this canyon is river formed rather than glacial and has a very different character.

Torla - gateway to Ordesa Known as the gateway to Ordesa, Torla makes an ideal base to explore the western side of the National Park in particularly the walking in the magnificent Ordesa Valley.

1 2

Dramatic Canyon Walking

The old town’s winding streets and stone buildings have the cliffs of Ordesa as a backdrop, Torla is a lively village in summer with a good choice of bars, restaurants, shops and a small supermarket. Hotel Ordesa is in a lovely, quiet location 20 minutes walk from the village centre.

“We came all the way from New Zealand and it was well worth it - stunning views, great guides. A holiday to remember.” John & Sheila

Discover Ordesa - 7 night guided walking holiday

Choice of 2 walks each day

- Choice of two walks each day

There will be a choice of two guided walks each day and you can decide each morning which walk you’d like to join.

- Dual level: grade 1 & grade 3 - 4* hotel with pool The spectacular Ordesa National Park is a highlight of the Pyrenees and a fantastic walking location. Choose from two guided walks each day - a lower level and a higher level option. A perfect holiday if you fancy doing a couple of longer days but don’t want to commit to a whole week of long hikes or for couples where one partner likes to walk farther than the other.

One option will be a grade 1 or 2 walk at a relaxed pace with plenty of time to soak up the views. These walks will be on good well graded paths and visit the alpine meadows and valleys of the park. Walks will be between five to seven hours with three to five hundred metres of ascent. The second option will be a grade 3 or 4 hike on one of the spectacular high level paths the park is famous for. A good head for heights will be needed for some routes and there will be steep sections on most days. These hikes will be six to nine hours with six hundred to a thousand metres of ascent so a good level of fitness is required.

The last Ibex Sadly something you won’t see is the Pyrenean Ibex. These magnificent member of the goat family had huge curved horns and were once found throughout the Pyrenees. By the early 1900’s over hunting (there horns were prized by hunters) had reduced the population to just one herd in the Ordesa National Park. By 1990 only ten individuals remained and tragically during a storm in 1998 the last known female was killed by a falling tree in the area around the Faja de Pelay. The species became extinct shortly after.

Hotel Ordesa Accommodation is at the 4* Hotel Ordesa. Fantastically situated with views of the Ordesa valley the hotel has excellent facilities including an outdoor pool (mid June to mid Sep), bar, restaurant, lounge and fantastic spa facilities with steam room and jacuzzi. Three course evening meals are served in the restaurant each evening (apart from the rest day when we’ll visit the nearby town of Ainsa). The pretty village of Torla has a range of shops, bars and all of the amenities you’ll need and is less than 20 minutes walk away.

“The enthusiasm and ability of the Hike Pyrenees team to cater for the individual needs of hikers is outstanding and really makes for a high quality hiking and holiday experience. Thank you Phil, Hannah, Ken and Anna.” Pat & Peter

GUIDED WALKING

Itinerary

Dual level

This sample itinerary shows the low and high level route options offered each day. The exact routes will depend on conditions.

Sunday

Torla Arrive in Torla from Zaragoza. On arrival there will be a short briefing before the evening meal.

2015 Dates

Camino de Turieto

Sunday 14 June - 21 June Sunday 5 July - 12 July Sunday 30 August - 6 September

A superb introduction to Ordesa along an beautiful path from the hotel into the Ordesa Valley.

Price

Faja Racon

£849 per person (based on two sharing) £89 Single supplement

Monday

Climb into the Circo de Corrieta and then follow a stunning path around the base of the cliffs of Ordesa.

Tuesday

Valle de Otal A hanging valley containing flower filled alpine meadows and a great place to spot marmots.

Ordiso/Otal Circuit This wonderful circular walk takes in two hanging valleys linked by a high pass. Great views north to Vignemale and east to the peaks of Gabieto.

Wednesday

The Ordesa Valley Follow the valley floor through ancient beech woods, past waterfalls under the valleys sheer cliffs.

The Faja de Pelay

Ordesa & Añisclo

A steep start leads to a path high on Ordesa’s south cliffs. Great views over the valley and Monte Perdido.

Catching a 4x4 for over 1200m of ascent allows us to first walk above the Ordesa valley before crossing over and walking along the rim of the Añisclo canyon too. Bird’s eye views throughout!

Thursday

Rest Day

Saturday

Free day to explore the village of Torla, take a short walk or relax in the hotel’s pool or spa. In the evening we’ll visit the medieval walled town of Ainsa for a stroll around its pretty streets followed by tapas and vino.

Another of the park’s spectacular valleys. Waterfalls cascade down the steep cliffs that tower above you.

Friday

The Rim of Ordesa A 4x4 carries us high into the meadows above the Ordesa canyon. From there we walk along the rim of the canyon for spectacular views before catching the 4x4 back down to the hotel.

The Añisclo Canyon

Plana Cuasta Walking from the hotel we climb into alpine meadows and onwards to a peak with superb views along the length of the Ordesa valley.

Sunday

Torla Free day in Torla leaving early afternoon for your transfer back to Zaragoza airport or train station.

Accommodation 7 nights in 4* Hotel Ordesa

Included meals 3 course evening meals(exc. rest day) Breakfast buffet each morning Picnic lunches on walking days

Dual level walking 5 days guided walking with 2 options each day. Walks: Lower level - 5 to 7 hours each day Higher level - 6 to 9 hours each day Ascents: Lower level - 300m to 600m Higher level - 600m to 1000m

Included Transfers To/from Zaragoza airport or train station.

Not included Flights, insurance, lunch and evening meal on rest day.

Refugio Week - 7 night guided walking holiday - Grade 4: Challenging hiking - Climb Monte Perdido (3355m) - 4 nights in mountain huts Staying in a mountain hut or ‘refugio’ allows you to reach the wildest areas of the Pyrenees. Following the GR11 you’ll explore trails out of the reach of day hikers and make the classic ascent of Monte Perdido. Staying at three of the best situated refugios in the Pyrenees, we’ll explore both the Valle de Tena and Ordesa National Park.

Challenging hiking This is a week of demanding hiking with long days and steep ascents. A good level of fitness and some hiking experience is essential. Trails will vary with a mixture of good paths interspersed with scree and boulderfields. There are several exposed sections. The highlight of the trek is an ascent of the ‘lost mountain’ - Monte Perdido. At 3355m this is the third highest peak in the Pyrenees. The ascents are not technical and do not require technical experience. Crampons may be required (particularly in June) but you will be instructed on all the necessary techniques during the holiday. We’ll send you a detailed kit list before arrival and can provide crampons and ice axes if required.

Brecha de Rolando

Accommodation

A line of impenetrable cliffs run along the border in the park with ‘Roland’s breach’ the only place to pass between France and Spain.

For the hike in the Valley de Tena we will stay at Refugio Respomuso & Refugio Bachimaña. In the Ordesa National Park, Refugio Goriz will be our base. Both serve three course evening meals as well as snacks and drinks. We’ll sleep in large mixed dorms. The facilities at Goriz are fairly basic but Respomuso and Bachimaña are more modern with hot showers.

The legend made famous in the ‘Chanson de Roland’ tells of the Christian general Roland being ambushed in the Valle de Roncevalles by moors and being chased into the Ordesa Valley. When Roland reached the impassable cliffs he drew his sword and cleaved a huge cleft in the cliffs through which he escaped into France.

When not in the mountains we stay at 4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas for a bit of luxury. It’s sauna and pool are a perfect way to end a great weeks hiking.

"The organisation and guiding were superb. The guides Hannah, Ken and Arkaitz were friendly, professional, helpful and understanding. I would love to walk with them again." Mike

GUIDED WALKING

Itinerary A two and a half day hike in the Valle de Tena followed by a 3 day hike in Ordesa walking the length of the Añisclo and Ordesa canyons.

2015 Dates

Sunday

Sunday 19 July - 26 July

Arrive in Biescas from Zaragoza late evening. Short briefing and kit check before the evening meal.

Price £849 per person (based on two sharing) £59 Single supplement

Monday

Refugio Respomuso

Accommodation

From Sallent de Gallego we set off along the famous GR11 Pyrenean long-distance trail. The path takes us to Refugio Respomuso, situated among 3000-metre peaks. On the way we have the option of a side trip to the spectacular Ibones de Arriel.

4 nights in mountain huts (in dormitories) 3 night in 4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas

Included meals 3 course evening meals each night Breakfast each day Picnic lunches on walking days

Tuesday

Circo de Piedrafita We set off early into the wild landscape of Circo de Piedrafita. Our route takes us past mountain lakes and we have the option to climb Tebberai (2916m). We head down past the Ibones Azules to Refugio Bachimaña where we spend the night.

Wednesday

Baños de Panticosa A short morning hike down to Baños de Panticosa where we’ll be picked up and taken back to Hotel Almud. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the Hotel pool and sauna and exploring the village of Biescas.

Thursday

The Ordesa Valley The Faja de Pelay is the start of our three-day hike. After an initial steep climb we follow a wide ledge in the sheer cliffs of the Ordesa valley giving breathtaking views across the valley and of the border peaks. Spend the night at Refugio Goriz beneath Monte Perdido.

Friday

Monte Perdido Our objective today is the classic ascent of Monte Perdido (3335m), the highest peak in the area. The summit views overlooking the Ordesa, Pineta and Anisclo canyons and into France are stunning. Steep in places, the route crosses a snow field that often requires the use of crampons. Return to Refugio Goriz for the night.

Guided Walking - Grade 4 Saturday

Añisclo Canyon Our walk out is through the neighbouring Añisclo Canyon, another spectacular canyon carved into the limestone plateau. We pass thundering waterfalls before reaching our transport back to the 4* Hotel Tierra de Biescas with it’s spa and pool for a bit of well earned luxury.

Sunday

Biescas Free morning in Biescas before leaving early afternoon to be dropped off at either Zaragoza airport or train station.

5 days fully guided walking with a group size of 6 maximum. Walks are 7 to 10 hours each day. Daily ascents are between 800m and 1500m High mountain paths that may require the use of crampons. There are steep, rocky and exposed sections. Previous hiking experience and a good level of fitness are essential.

Included Transfers To and from Zaragoza on Sunday evenings to meet Ryan Air flight from Stansted or train from Barcelona or Madrid.

Not included Flights, insurance, drinks with evening meal, lunch and evening meal on rest day.

Self Guided: Ordesa - Discover the best of Ordesa

Superb walking base

- Easy to follow route cards

Torla is on the west side of the park and is ideally placed to reach the walking in the Ordesa Valley and Bujaruelo.

- Arrive and depart on any day Discover the best of the Ordesa National Park - one of the highlights of the Pyrenees. Make sure you get the most of out your time in the park with our Self Guided Ordesa holidays. We get you straight to the best hikes and know not just the famous walks but many beautiful quiet paths often overlooked by many visitors.

Bestue is a small remote village high on the eastern side of the park and gives access to some fantastic hiking along the rim of the Añisclo Canyon and in the Garganta de Escuain. A two centre holiday visiting both villages is a fantastic option - the walking and scenery is quite different in the east and the west sides of the park and the wonderful Casa Capella in Bestue is not to be missed.

The ‘faja’ paths of Ordesa Ordesa is famous for it’s faja’s. The cliffs of the valley are limestone and as it’s eroded, natural ledges have been carved into the cliffs creating spectacular paths.

Easy to follow routecards

World Heritage Site

We’ve route cards for all of the best walks in the valley. There’s a huge choice of walks of all distances ranging from gentle walks in alpine meadows to long days in the high mountains.

Ordesa was made a UNESCO world heritage site in 1997 mainly due to it’s bio-diversity. The steep cliffs lead to an altitude change of two kilometres between the valley meadows and the peaks high above.

The infamous Faja de las Flores is a vertiginous metre wide ledge a kilometre up that’s only for those with an excellent head for heights.

As well as easy to follow directions for each walk we give accurate distances and ascents and let you know what the ground is like underfoot. We’re around during the week to offer advice on which walks would suit you best and answer any of your questions.

Other paths are less intimidating and the Faja de Pelay on the southern cliffs and the little walked but highly recommended Faja Racon are two of our favourites.

We live in the area year round and walk these routes regularly with groups so you can be confident that our route cards will always be up to date and accurate.

These differences mean a huge variety of flowers, birds and mammals can find their niche and flourish. Humans have made little impact on the inhospitable higher plateaus. The UNESCO site is jointly managed with the French Parc National de Pyrenees.

SELF GUIDED 2015 Dates Self guided holidays are available throughout the summer.

Hotel Ordesa Prices 1 May - 30 June 1 July - 31 August 1 Sep - 31 Oct

B&B £549 £629 £549

Full Board £649 £699 £649

Single supplement: £99 low season, £129 high season Prices are per person and based on two people sharing. Prices are for a 7 night stay - for longer or shorter stays prices are pro-rata the weekly rate.

Accommodation 4* Hotel Ordesa near the village of Torla

Included meals “Wow - can’t recommend this place enough. Relaxing hotel environment with very helpful and friendly staff. Hikes were breathtaking and the guides to walking in the park were extremely helpful.” Heidi and Neil

4* Hotel Ordesa (Torla)

Two centre holidays

The 4* Hotel Ordesa is ideally situated for walkers with views into the Ordesa Valley and hikes straight from the hotel door.

A popular option is to split a weeks stay between Ordesa and the Valle de Tena allowing you to see both areas.

The hotel has excellent facilities including an outdoor pool (open mid-June to mid September), bar, lounge area and a spa (additional fees apply for use of the spa).

Hotel Almud in Sallent works well combined with Hotel Ordesa. It’s a scenic one hour drive between the hotels when you change venues midweek which means you still have time to do a hike that day.

You start each morning with a cooked or continental buffet breakfast. With our full board option picnic lunches are provided each day and three course evening meals are taken at the hotel. The village of Torla is just a short walk away. There you’ll find the National Park visitors centre, shops, bars, cafes and restaurants

You can split the week however as you like and prices are pro-rata the weekly rates.

Full board option includes 3 course evening meals, cooked and continental buffet breakfast and picnic lunches each day. B&B option includes a buffet breakfast - picnic lunches can be ordered from the hotel (at additional cost).

Self Guided Walking Walking is self guided and there is a good choice of routes of all lengths and difficulties. We’ve detailed descriptions for all the best trails.

Not included Flights, insurance, airport transfers or transport to and from walks.

The Pre-Pyrenees The deep gorges and towering cliffsof the Pre-Pyrenees have a completely different feel from the main range although they are just forty kilometres south.

Sierra de Guara

Our holidays here explore two areas the Sierra de Guara Park and Mallos de Riglos. Its warm climate makes it perfect for early season hiking.

The high cliffs of the gorges make excellent roosting spots for birds of prey and the park is home to lammergeier and large colonies of griffon vultures.

Tranquil and unpopulated a traditional way of life continues here with small farms producing cheese, wine, olive oil and almonds - all delicious! The range was the frontline for many years during the ‘reconquista’ and the area is steeped with history with both Christian and Moorish castles dotting the landscape.

Its one of the best areas in Europe for canyoning the adventure sport where you don wetsuit, helmet and harness and follow a river jumping, abseiling and sliding down waterfalls on the way great fun!

Perfect early season hiking The climate here is much more Mediterranean with olive and almond groves and temperatures are perfect for early season hiking. Our holidays here are in April and May while the main Pyrenees range is still covered in snow and its the perfect place to enjoy warm spring sunshine.

Alquezar

Los Mallos de Riglos

In the 9th century the Moors recognised this spot surrounded by deep ravines as the ideal place to build a castle to defend against the early Christian kingdoms. The villages name is derived from ‘Al’Qasr’ the Moorish word for castle.

The remarkable cliffs of Riglos rise majestically over the surrounding land providing a perfect home for vultures and a world famous climbing venue.

The Christians conquered the village in 1067 and over time the castle became the collegiate church of Santa Maria which now overlooks the winding streets of Alquezar.

1 2

This national park lies at the southern edge of the Pyrenees. Its soft limestone means its riddled with gorges and we visit two of the most spectacular the Veros and Mascun gorges on our Riglos & Alquezar holiday.

Alquezar is a beautiful village with most of the buildings dating back to the 16th century and made of stone, brick and clay. The shops sell local honey, cheese, olive oil and wine and there are several of bars with scenic terraces to take in an after hike drink.

However paths accessible to all walkers wind high up above the cliffs giving us hikers wonderful views. It’s difficult to stop staring upwards at the towering cliffs - and the crazy climbers hanging off them - as we walk. The river Gallego flows under the cliffs and it’s white water is one of the best rafting venues in the Pyrenees. In addition to Riglos there is also excellent hiking around the Mallos de Aguero and the Sierra de Santa Domingo where the now abandoned village of Salinas once produced salt for the area.

Riglos & Alquezar - 7 night guided walking holiday

Moderate walking

- Grade 2 - moderate hiking

The hikes will be mid level and each day we expect to walk around 10 to 12 kilometres with 400-650 metres of ascent.

- Spectacular gorges and cliffs - 2 centre holiday Wonderful hiking amongst the canyons of the Sierra de Guara and the amazing cliffs of Mallos de Riglos. The warm weather of the pre-Pyrenees makes this the perfect place to hike early in the season.

The paths are generally good although there are a few steeper sections. Although both areas are famed for cliffs and gorges none of the hiking is on exposed narrow paths.

History and nature The history of the area stretches back 5000 years with Neolithic cave paintings around Alquezar. The Moors and Christians fought over the area in the middle ages and the castles and churches of the area have many Moorish influences. On the rest day we visit the 11th century Loarre castle. Phil guides this week himself and is knowledgeable about the areas history as well as the flora and fauna.

The ‘bone breaker’ The Sierra de Guara is home to Europe’s rarest vulture - the Lammergeier. With a huge wingspan of up to 1.8 metres the Lammergeier makes for a magnificent sight. It feeds almost exclusively on bone marrow, dropping bones from a great height to smash them on the rocks below which it then swallows. Their strong stomachs grind up the bones and they digest the marrow. This unusual feeding behaviour gives rise to its Spanish name Quebrantahuesos - the ‘bone breaker’.

Charming hotels You’ll stay in two charming hotels during the week. Both are small and friendly in great locations. The bedrooms are beautifully decorated and have fantastic views.

“If you love hill walking and love Spanish food, wine and culture this is the trip for you!

Hotel Real Posada de Liena is our base in Murillo de Gallego where you can watch the cliffs of Riglos glow red in the setting sun from your window or the terraza. The hotels restaurant serves delicious food cooked by our hosts Carmen and Jose.

Well organised with a very personal touch. Brilliant.”

In Alquezar we’ll stay at Hotel Castillo which once again has wonderful views. Here we’ll eat out in one of Alquezar’s restaurants each night.

Cathy and Rob

GUIDED WALKING

Itinerary During the week we’ll hike in two areas - the Sierra de Guara and the cliffs around Riglos.

2015 Dates

This is a sample itinerary - the exact routes will depend on the weather and what the group would like to achieve.

Sunday 19 April - Sunday 26 April Sunday 3 May - Sunday 10 May

Sunday

Price

Murillo de Gallego

£879 per person (based on two sharing) £89 Single supplement

Arrive in Murillo de Gallego from Zaragoza late afternoon. Briefing followed by the evening meal.

Accommodation

Monday

4 nights in 2* Real Posada De Liena 3 nights in Hotel Castillo

Mallos de Aguero

Included meals

The cliffs of Mallos de Aguero tower above the village. This circular route takes us on a complete circuit of these fascinating rock formations.

Tuesday

3 course evening meals Breakfast each morning Picnic lunches on walking days

Mallos de Riglos

Guided Walking - Grade 2

Even bigger than yesterdays cliffs the Mallos of Riglos are the most famous of the area. A wonderful trail winds us up through the cliffs and then along a ridge above them. Our return route takes us underneath the cliffs and we’ll get sore necks as we gaze up at vultures and climbers!

Thursday

Saturday

Alquezar

Mascun canyon Today we explore the wonderful rock formations of the Mascun canyon where the the river has carved spires and arches. We hike to the abandoned village of Otin before returning via a separate branch of the canyon.

Wednesday

Today we leave Murillo de Gallego and head to Alquezar. In the morning we visit Loarre Castle one of the best in northern Spain. We’ll have lunch in Alquezar and then an optional short but impressive hike down into the Vero cañon to follow the ‘pasarelas’ - a path built along the river.

Sierra de Santa Domingo

Friday

Free morning in Alquezar before leaving for the transfer back to Zaragoza train station or airport.

Our hike today takes us through the narrow rocky valley of Foz de Salinas to the abandoned village of Salinas which once produced salt for the region. Past the village we head to the pass of La Osqueta from which we have tremendous views both south and north.

Vero Canyon A trip around the Vero Canyon starting high on the west banks before dropping down to cross the idyllic Puente de Villacantal before climbing again to return on the eastern flanks of the canyon.

Sunday

5 days fully guided walking. Walks are 6 to 7 hours each day. Daily ascents are between 400m to 650m on good paths with some steep sections. Walks are at a relaxed pace.

Included Transfers To and from Zaragoza airport or train station on Sundays as well as all transport during the week.

Not included Flights, insurance, drinks with evening meal, lunch on rest day.

Navarra & the Basque Country The Basque Country - a land steeped in tradition and history. Here the Pyrenees rise from the coast creating forest filled valleys before green rolling hills give way to the first rocky summits of the range. The region has so much to discover from it’s rocky coastline to it’s delightful villages dotted amongst the landscape. The area is full of history. Neolithic dolmens stand on remote summits and pilgrims have walked the dramatic coastline for a thousand years on their way to Santiago. We’ve selected three areas that show you the best this region has to offer. The valleys of Baztan and Salazar are where we base our guided Western Pyrenees holiday while the Camino de Santiago northern route follows the coast.

1 2 3

The Camino de Santiago The northern route of the Camino de Santiago follows the rugged Basque coastline. There’s no walk quite like the Camino - with every step you feel the history of the walk and every hamlet you pass has carvings, ermitas and reminders of the route’s long history. The Northern Route is a beautiful alternative that is less walked than the traditional French route from Saint Jean Pied de Port. Our route takes in a manageable one week section of the Camino starting at the French border and passing surf beaches, cliffs and fishing villages before heading inland to finish in Gernika - scene of the bombing in 1937 that led to Picasso’s painting of the same name.

“Amazing week with Hike Pyrenees! The mountains, the guides and the spirit of our group were just lovely. Very well organised trip.” Sarah

Baztan

Valle de Salazar

Wandering around the villages of Baztan you feel like you are in a land that time forgot. These villages haven’t changed for centuries and neither has the pace of life. The tranquil village of Erratzu is the perfect place to relax and wind down.

A lush valley where limestone ridges and peaks rise above you. The first two thousand metre summits of the Pyrenees can be found here.

The fourteenth century former cider making house Casa Rural Etxebeltzea is our base. This is a landscape of green rolling hills rather than craggy summits with a unique charm and sense of history. Although it lies in Navarra the area is traditionally Basque and this is the culture and language that permeates the valley.

Irati - one of the largest broad leafed forests in Europe - lies at the northern end of the valley. On a misty morning it feels magical to walk between the huge beeches and firs. The village of Ezcaroz in the centre of the valley is the perfect spot to explore the diverse nature of the valley and on our hikes here we’ll climb peaks, follow ridges as well as walk amongst the woods of Irati

Camino de Santiago - coastal route - Walk 6 days of the Camino - Self guided coastal walking - Delicious Basque cuisine - Great hotels along the route - Luggage moved each day Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims that have walked the route for over a thousand years. A wonderful walk along the Basque coastline discovering fishing villages and beaches around each corner.

The Coastal Camino The Northern or Coastal Way follows the Basque coastline with it’s beaches, cliffs and fishing villages. Pilgrims have walked these paths for a thousand years on their way to Santiago and there’s a fantastic feeling of history as you pass by pilgrim shrines and churches that have been there for centuries. The Northern route is the undiscovered gem of the Camino and a beautiful alternative to the sometimes crowded French route starting in St. Jean Pied de Port. You still get all of the feeling of the Camino de Santiago but with the advantage of beautiful coastal views, empty paths and charming accommodation. The week starts in Hondarribia - a medieval walled town on the French border and ends in historic Gernika. On the way you’ll discover the best of the Basque Country - cliffs, beaches, green hills, vineyards and beautiful countryside.

The Scallop Shell The scallop shell is the symbol of the Camino and you’ll see it carved on buildings, painted on signposts and carried by pilgrims. There are various versions as to the origins of the symbol. One legend tells of St James’ body being shipwrecked off the coast of Spain and miraculously washed onshore covered in scallop shells. The shell is also a metaphor with the grooves reaching a central point just like the pilgrims. It also had practical uses with pilgrims using the shell as a plate or to collect water.

Superb Accommodation

Mid level hiking

We’ve searched out the best accommodation throughout the trip. You stay in charming guest houses in beautiful rural locations surrounded by vineyards and countryside as well as beach front hotels. All rooms are en-suite. This is not a trip where you’ll be staying in packed pilgrim hostels.

The stages of the Camino de Santiago are reasonably long with between 12 and 25 kilometres walked each day. Although the highest points during the week are only 500 metres the route - like most coastal paths - undulates and the accumulated ascent adds up at the end of the day.

Our favourite is Antsotegi in Markina. This medieval blacksmiths has been wonderfully converted keeping the water wheel and ancient stone walls.

However the paths are excellent and you cover the distance much quicker and easier than you would on our more mountainous routes in the Valle de Tena or Ordesa. Ascents and descents are fairly gentle and not knee crunching.

Evening meals are included on 3 nights. The other nights you can choose to eat at a variety of restaurants or tapas bars - the Basque Country is famous for its cuisine and there is plenty of choice to suit any budget. We provide details of local restaurants in our information pack.

Several of the days have options to shorten the route by taking a taxi some of the way and we can organise taxis for you if required.

SELF GUIDED

Itinerary

2015 Dates

Day 1 Arrive in Hondarribia an historic walled medieval town. You’ll stay at Hotel San Nikolas right on the Plaza de Armas overlooked by the castle of Charles V. Evening briefing at the hotel to talk through your week ahead and answer any questions.

The Camino de Santiago holiday is available all summer and autumn. You can arrive and depart on any day you wish (except Tuesday arrivals).

Price 1 May - 30 June £749 1 July - 15 Sep £799 16 Sep - 30 Nov £749 Single sup. low season £129, high £149 Prices are person and based on two sharing. Minimum party size is 2 people

Day 2

Hondarribia - San Sebastian Leaving Hondarribia you climb to the ridge of Jaizkibel (525m) where you pass a series of old watchtowers that were used to signal whale sightings to ships at sea. Descending to the fishing village of Pasai San Pedro you cross the estuary on a water taxi and continue on to San Sebastian, famous for it’s food and beaches. Option to shorten the day by taking a taxi or bus from San Pedro to San Sebastian. Night at 2* Hostal Alemana Full distance: 22 km, 750 metres ascent Distance with bus/taxi: 15.3 km, 550 metres ascent

pass Zarautz and walk along it’s long beach full of surfers. The village of Getaria with it’s cobbled streets and fantastic fish restaurants is today’s destination. You stay just outside of the village in the casa rural Usotegi surrounded by vineyards. Distance: 11.4km, 500 metres ascent

Day 3

Day 5

Accommodation

San Sebastian - Orio

Getaria - Deba

The day starts with a climb to the peak of Igeldo for fantastic views back over San Sebastian’s La Concha beach. Passing through fields and woods you get wonderful views of the coast. Orio was an old whalers town and has a lovely medieval old quarter with ermitas and carvings dedicated to the pilgrims of the Camino. Night at Casa Rural Mailan (in July and August Hostal Xaloa). Distance: 14.2 km, 550 metres ascent

Leaving Getaria on an ancient paved way you climb the first of the days two hills. You leave the coast for a short while to visit the Sanctuary of our Lady of Itziar - famous for housing one of the regions seven black Madonnas. You end the day back on the coast at Deba where you stay right on the beach at the 4* Hotel Aisia. Distance: 17.3km, 610 metres ascent

Day 4

Deba - Markina

Orio - Getaria A shorter but beautiful day walking through vineyards that make Txakolí - a light, acidic white wine that is typical of the Basque Country. You

Day 6 Today the route leaves the coast behind and heads inland through the rural heart of the Basque Country. Forests, tiny farms, green hills and solitude characterise this day’s hiking. You spend

the night in Antsotegi (Markina) - a medieval blacksmiths that has been converted into an absolutely delightful place to stay. Distance: 21.8km, 1100 metres ascent

Day 7

Markina - Gernika Today as pilgrims have for centuries you pass the tenth century monastery of Ziortza then the forests of Gorontzugarai before entering the green valleys dotted with hamlets as you approach Gernika. After the horrendous bombing immortalised by Picasso, Gernika symbolises the traditions and freedom of the Basque Country and is an appropriate place to end your journey through this region. Transfer either back to San Sebastian for the final night in Hotel Ezeiza or alternatively onto Bilbao for a night in Bilbao. Distance: 24.8km, 690 metres ascent

1 night in Hotel San Nikolas (Hondarribia), Hostal Alemana (San Sebastian), Casa Rural Mailan (Orio) - in Jul and Aug Hostal Xaloa, Usotegi (Getaria), Hotel Aisia (Deba) and Antsotegi (Markina). Final night in either San Sebastian or Bilbao.

Included meals 3 x evening meals (4 nights guests can choose their own restaurants or tapas bar). Breakfast each day. 6 x Picnic lunches.

Self Guided Walking Walking is self guided. Detailed directions will be provided for each days walk. Baggage transfer each day is included.

Transfers

Day 8

Transfers to and from San Sebastian at the beginning and end of the walk. See page 34 for details of travel options to San Sebastian.

Depart

Not included

Onward travel from either San Sebastian or Bilbao.

Flights and insurance. Drinks with evening meal. Any optional taxi rides to shorten route.

The Western Pyrenees - 7 night guided walking holiday

Two charming villages

- Grade 2 - moderate walking

This holiday is split between two beautiful villages - Ezcaroz in the Valle de Salazar and Erratzu in Baztan.

- Two centre holiday - Stay in two traditional villages Discover the history, culture and traditions of two valleys of the western Pyrenees. This is a land that time forgot with idyllic hamlets nestling under the peaks. Wonderful hiking along limestone ridges, through beech forests and up to summits with panoramic views.

Both are tranquil traditional villages with cobbled streets, stone houses and fronton courts. The pink granite houses of Erratzu are particularly photogenic. The two locations give us an excellent choice and variety of hikes with the rounded very reachable summits of Baztan in contrast with the more rocky limestone peaks we’ll find in Valle de Salazar. Navarra and the Basque Country are steeped in culture and history and Javier, our native Basque guide, will tell you the story of this fascinating land during the week.

Mid level hiking

Meals and accommodation

This fourteenth century traditional cider house has been converted into a really special place to stay.

Both areas we visit have wonderful hiking. The walks will be at a relaxed pace but cover reasonable distances - between 10 and 15 kilometres.

Although it’s a large house there are just six bedrooms - all en-suite. A huge lounge stands at the centre of the house where you can relax in the evenings.

Ascents will be between 400 to 800 metres each day however the nature of the terrain means the climbs are not too steep or rocky.

While in Ezcaroz we’ll stay in Casa Otsoa - a small friendly hotel. It’s six bedrooms are all en-suite and excellently decorated and equipped. At Casa Otsoa meals will be taken at the hotel’s excellent restaurant.

Casa Etxebeltzea

The breakfast room contains the old stone ‘pit’ where apples were crushed underfoot and the great wooden screws that squeezed the juice out of them to make the cider.

Paths are excellent and the going is generally easy underfoot. Compared to our grade 1 Lakes & Valleys holiday the distances are a bit longer but the going is easier underfoot and therefore quicker.

While in Baztan we’ll stay in Casa Etxebeltzea a beautiful old building. This region is renowned for it’s cuisine and while here we’ll head out to nearby restaurants to sample some of the best of the local dishes.

GUIDED WALKING

Itinerary Sunday

Ezcaroz

2015 Dates

Arrive in Ezcaroz from Pamplona. Briefing about the week ahead before evening meal.

Sunday 12 July - Sunday 19 July Sunday 6 September - 13 September

Monday

Price

Sierra de Abodi

£879 per person (based on two sharing) £89 Single supplement

A fantastic days hiking along the ridge of Abodi. Wonderful views down to the forest of Irati to the north and mountains to the south. We follow the ridge passing neolithic dolmens and burial mounds to it’s highest point Abodi (1533 metres).

Accommodation 4 nights in Casa Otsoa (Ezcaroz) 3 nights in Casa Etxebeltzea (Erratzu)

Tuesday

Included meals

Olhadubi Gorge Today we cross the border into France to hike around this impressive limestone gorge. The highlight of the day is crossing the Passerelle d’Holzarte - a long high suspension bridge that crosses the gorge.

Wednesday

Pic d’Orhy (2017m) Lying right on the border of France and Spain, Pic d’Orhy is the first two thousand metre peak in the Pyrenees and today’s objective. Fabulous views across both sides of the border and a fitting final hike in this area before we move onto Baztan.

Thursday

Saturday

Roncesvalles

Alkurruntz

Today’s a rest day from hiking as we say goodbye to Ezcaroz and move to the village of Erratzu in the region of Baztan. On the way we first visit Roncesvalles where the famous battle took place in 778 when Roland was defeated by the Basques. We stop for lunch at Saint Jean Pied de Port - a beautiful medieval town that is the starting point for many pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago.

A circular route with views over the whole of the Baztan area and it’s farmsteads and villages. The tiny ponies typical of the Basque Country graze on the slopes as we head to the summit of Alkurruntz (934 metres) - a suitable finale for the week.

Friday

Dolmens of the frontier Our walk today follows the border between France and Spain with panoramic views into both countries. The route is full of neolithic dolmens as well as the curious boulder of Arrikulunka - an enormous balancing rock.

3 course evening meals (excluding Thursday) Evening meals taken at hotel for 3 nights and on 3 nights we head out to local restaurants to sample the cuisine of the region (included). Breakfast buffet each morning Picnic lunches on walking days

Guided walking - Grade 2

Sunday

5 days fully guided walking. Walks are 6 to 8 hours each day. Daily ascents are between 400m to 800m on good paths that are not steep. Walks are at a relaxed pace.

Depart

Included transfers

Free morning before transfer back to Pamplona for your onward travel.

Transfers are included from/to either Biarritz airport, San Sebastian or Pamplona train/bus station. See page 38 or our website for more details.

Not included Flights, insurance, drinks with evening meal, lunch and evening meal on Thursday.

Location

Hondarribia Gernika Erratzu

Where are we? We’re based in the Aragonese and western Pyrenees. The Aragonese Pyrenees are pretty much in the centre of the range with some of the highest and most spectacular mountains in the Spain.

Ezcaroz

Sallent de Gállego Biescas Benasque

Torla

The Valle de Tena and Ordesa are roughly two hours north of Zaragoza (our pick up point) which has excellent rail links with Barcelona and Madrid and flights from London Stansted. If you’re renting a car you can drive from Barcelona in four hours.

Riglos

Bestue

Alquezar

Transfers for our Riglos & Alquezar holiday are also from Zaragoza and are around one and a half hours. For our western Pyrenees holidays you can come via Bilbao (flights and ferries from the UK), San Sebastian (trains and flights from Madrid and Barcelona), Pamplona or Biarritz.

Getting to the Western Pyrenees and Camino de Santiago Camino de Santiago From the UK most people fly to/from either Biarritz or Bilbao. There are flights from several UK airports (Inc. Stansted and Manchester) on Ryan Air and EasyJet. Biarritz is just 25 minutes from the first hotel in Hondarribia and we can arrange a taxi to pick you up. Aragon Navarra Basque Country

From Bilbao there is a bus once an hour direct from the airport to San Sebastian where we can meet you at the bus station. At the end of the week you finish in Bilbao.

There are twice daily flights to San Sebastian from Barcelona (www.vueling.com) and Madrid (www.iberia.com). The flights are reasonable and the journey takes between 1 and 1½ hours. San Sebastian can also be reached easily by bus or train from Bilbao or any other major city.

Western Pyrenees Our Western Pyrenees guided holiday includes transfers from/to Biarritz or Pamplona. Biarritz has flights from London Stansted with Ryan Air. Pamplona has direct trains from Madrid (3 hours) and Barcelona (3h 45m).

See our website for more information about getting to the Camino de Santiago

Getting Here Zaragoza transfers Transfers from/to Zaragoza airport or train station are included on all of our guided walking holidays in the Valle de Tena and Ordesa. You can also choose to add transfers to our Village to Village self guided holiday on a Sunday.

Flying from the UK Stansted to Zaragoza From the UK the simplest way to get to Zaragoza is on the Ryan Air flight from London Stansted. There are flights year round.

Transfers are at the following times:

Flights start from under £100 (including taxes) and are generally cheaper the earlier you book.

Pick up times 4 pm from Zaragoza train station 4:45 pm from Zaragoza airport

There are flights on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Our transfers meet the Sunday flights.

Drop off times 11 am or 3 pm at Zaragoza train station 3.10 pm at Zaragoza airport

Flight times are:

Airport transfers are timed to meet the Ryan Air flight from London Stansted. From Zaragoza it is around two hours to the Pyrenees.

From outside Europe Barcelona and Madrid are the two biggest international airports in Spain and if you’re arriving from the US, Canada, Australia or other international destinations they are the best airports to fly to. There are excellent rail links from both Barcelona and Madrid to Zaragoza where we’ll meet you at the train station (see ‘rail links’ to the right). Alternatively hire a car from Barcelona and drive to the Pyrenees. All of the major car hire companies have offices at the airport and it takes around four and a half hours to drive to us. Both cities are fantastic places to spend a few days before or after hiking in the Pyrenees.

London Stansted - Zaragoza Outbound Depart Stansted (STN)

1.35 pm

Arrive Zaragoza (ZAZ)

4.45 pm

Inbound Depart Zaragoza (ZAZ) Arrive Stansted (STN)

5.10 pm 6.25 pm

Please note these times were correct at the time of printing - occasionally flight times change please check flight times on the Ryan Air website.

Flying to Barcelona/Madrid If Stansted isn’t convenient for you there are flights from many UK airports to Barcelona and Madrid. The AVE fast train links either of these cities to Zaragoza where we’ll meet you at the train station.

Zaragoza rail links

Renting a car

Zaragoza has excellent rail connections with both Madrid and Barcelona on the AVE high speed train. Travelling at over 200 km/h the journey takes only 1 ½ hours from either Barcelona-Sants or Madrid Puerta de Atocha stations with a return ticket costing around 70 euros. There are trains roughly every hour and they are very comfortable.

There are a number of airports that are within driving distance.

For more information and train times give us a call or visit www.renfe.com - click on ‘welcome’ for the English version of the site. If you need any help with train times or buying tickets drop us an email.

Bus connections The bus network in Spain is excellent and tickets are cheap. Biescas is the easiest of our bases to reach by bus - the nearest bus station is Sabiñanigo and from there you can catch a cab to Biescas. If you’re coming from Barcelona change at Huesca. If you’re coming from the west (Pamplona or Bilbao) change at Jaca. You can see routes and timetables at www.alosa.es

Travel advice If you need any help with your travel arrangements just drop us an email or give us a call and we’ll be glad to help.

Barcelona is the airport most commonly used as there are flights from many UK airports as well as lots of international flights from the USA, Canada and the rest of the world. Barcelona is about a four and a half hour drive from us. All of the major hire car companies have offices at the airport. Other airports that people use are Zaragoza, Toulouse, Pau, Tarbes (Lourdes) and Bilbao.

Driving through France Driving through France is a great way of coming in your own car. Allow about 15 hours driving from the northern ports.

Ferries from the UK Brittany Ferries have three routes from the UK to Spain: Portsmouth-Bilbao, Portsmouth-Santander and Plymouth-Santander. The ferries are a great way to travel and have private cabins, restaurants, bars and viewing decks. All of the routes allow you to take your own car and crossings take around 24 hours. Visit www.brittany-ferries.co.uk for timetables and prices.

Accommodation Valle de Tena Hotel Tierra de Biescas The four star Hotel Tierra de Biescas is in the heart of the old village, set in lovely grounds with an indoor and outdoor pool. Each of it’s 42 stylishly furnished rooms have an en-suite bathroom. It has a bar, comfortable lounge area with sofas, a restaurant and gardens with loungers. Each morning a breakfast buffet is served with cooked and continental options. Three course evening meals are taken in the hotel restaurant with a choice of starters, main courses and dessert. Guests can relax in the hotel’s spa facilities which include a small indoor swimming pool and sauna. A full range of massage treatments are available. The outdoor pool is open between mid June and mid September. Free wi-fi for guests.

Hotel Almud Hotel Almud is a wonderful stone building set in the winding streets of Sallent de Gállego. Mariano and Marie-Jose are your hosts in this friendly family-run hotel with just 11 rooms. The hotel is fantastically decorated throughout with the bedrooms beautifully converted all with en-suite bathrooms and mountain views. There is a living room and reading area with sofas and a stone fireplace where you can have a coffee and relax. The hotel has free wi-fi for guests. Meals are taken at Casa Jaimico restaurant which is just 100 metres away and has an excellent menu.

“The welcome we received on arrival at the hotel was superb, and all the staff were really friendly and helpful throughout our stay” Marilyn & Anthony

Rincon del Andrea (Biescas) Self Catering Apartments Excellently located and furnished self catering apartments in the village of Biescas. One and two bedroom apartments are available each with a bathroom and a good sized kitchen/diner with a sofa, tv and dvd player. All apartments are well equipped with washing machine, fridge, microwave, hob, kettle and toaster. Free wi-fi internet connection is included in each apartment. Double, twin and triple rooms are available and additional occupants can be accommodated on the sofa bed or in an additional room with en-suite bathroom in the same building.

Ordesa and Navarra Hotel Ordesa (Torla) Our Discover Ordesa holidays are based in the Hotel Ordesa just outside of Torla - a superb location on the borders of the national park with views into the valley. The four star hotel has excellent facilities including an outdoor pool (open mid June to mid September), restaurant, bar, reading room and a comfortable lounge with card tables and a log fire. There is a mixture of twins, doubles and family rooms all with en-suite bathrooms. The Hotel Ordesa has a spa with a steam room, jacuzzi and an on-site masseuse with a full range of treatments available (there is a charge for use of the spa facilities). Three course meals are served in the restaurant each evening and you have a choice of starters, main course and dessert. Please note wine is not included in the price. The hotel is 20 minute walk from the village of Torla which has banks, shops and all the amenities you’ll need.

Casa Etxebeltzea (Erratzu) Casa Otsoa (Ezcaroz) A small friendly hotel nestled amongst the cobbled street of Ezcaroz. It’s six bedrooms have all been recently renovated and all have en-suite bathrooms and excellent facilities. There’s a bar with a sun terrace ideal for relaxing after a days hike. Meals will be taken at the hotel’s excellent restaurant which serves many local dishes.

A beautifully converted fourteenth century cider making house. This style of house is absolutely typical in the Basque Country. It has just 6 bedrooms - all with excellently equipped en-suite bathrooms. There’s a small terrace and a big lounge area in which to relax. The village and house are wonderfully tranquil and it’s the perfect place to get away from it all. Breakfasts are taken at the hotel but for evening meals we head out to local restaurants to sample some of the superb cuisine that the Basque Country is famous for.

Private group holidays - Tailor made itineraries for groups from just 6 people - Group discounts - Flexible dates - Hassle free for the organiser Organising a holiday for your walking club or a group of friends? Look no further than our private group walking holidays. Superb scenery, fantastic hotels and tailor made itineraries with walking options for all levels of energy and experience. For groups of six or more we can tailor make an itinerary that suits you perfectly and offer group discounts, flexible dates, a choice of hotels and walking options of all grades.

Tailor made itineraries We’ll put together the perfect holiday for your group. Holidays range from gentle walks with a focus on nature or history to hut to hut routes in the high mountains. We cater for groups from just six people up to a coach load and all our holidays are friendly and personal.

Leave it to us We’ll take all the hassle out of organising your group holiday leaving the holiday organiser time to enjoy themselves too! We arrange your transfers and accommodation. Breakfast and three course evening meals are taken at the hotel and we provide generous picnic lunches.

Choice of locations Choose between the high mountains of the central Pyrenees, the gorges and cliffs of the PrePyrenees or routes along the Basque coastline where your group can also enjoy the tapas and culture of an Sebastian - Spain’s chicest beach resort.

Flexible dates

Start planning today

Choose dates to suit your group - if you’ve only time for a long weekend that’s no problem although to properly discover an area as diverse as the Pyrenees a week (or more!) is recommended.

To begin organising your walking holiday give us a call on +44 (0)208 123 5049 or drop us an email and we can discuss your requirements. We just need to have a rough idea of numbers, when you’d like to come and the level of hikes that you are looking for and we’ll put together an itinerary for your group to consider.

“We were well looked after from the moment we were picked up and our walks were tailor-made for our small group. All in all a fantastic weeks hiking.” Alan & Mary

HOW TO BOOK

Booking conditions A full list of our terms and conditions can be found on the back of the booking form or on our website.

Insurance It is a condition of your booking with us that you and all other members of your party are adequately insured for all of the activities that they will be undertaking and any person who is under 18 years old is accompanied by an adult. We will ask for details of your insurance prior to departure. It is each guests responsibility to ensure they are insured for health care in case of accident or illness while in Spain. For UK residents: The E111 form has been replaced by the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). We advise all guests to obtain an EHIC before travelling (this is not a substitute for travel insurance).

Health and fitness Our holidays are active and guests should have the appropriate level of fitness. If you are pregnant, we advise you to seek the advice of your doctor before booking with us. For your own safety, you must advise us of any health conditions, allergies and regularly taken medicines such as asthma, diabetes, pregnancy, food allergies, allergies to aspirin, penicillin, etc.

Paying for your holiday A non-refundable deposit of £75 per person is required; when we have received this we will confirm your booking. The balance is due 6 weeks before departure and we will contact you at that time. If you book less than 6 weeks before departure, you will pay for the entire amount at the time of booking.

No binding contract is made between Hike Pyrenees Ltd and the persons booking the holiday until the booking has been confirmed in writing by Hike Pyrenees Ltd. You can make payments by internet bank transfer , by a sterling cheque made payable to ‘Hike Pyrenees Ltd’. Credit and debit card payments can be accepted securely online via PayPal.

Cancellations If you wish to change or cancel your holiday you must advise us immediately in writing to the Registered Office address or by email to info@hikepyrenees.co.uk. If you want to change any details of your booking (such as changing dates or changing an activity), we will do our best to help, however please be aware that we may not be able to accommodate your change. If you want to cancel all or part of your booking, to cover the cost of processing your cancellation and to compensate us for any other costs we have incurred, we make a cancellation charge dependent on when we receive your cancellation notice as shown on the scale below. The person who made the booking is responsible for paying this charge.

Booking your Hike Pyrenees holiday is straightforward.

Dietary requirements We can cater for vegetarians, vegans and coeliacs but require at least 7 days prior notice. Please notify us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Alterations All prices that we advertise in our brochure and on our website are accurate at the date published but we reserve the right to change our prices at any time. We will be able to tell you the up-to-date price of your chosen accommodation advertised by us before confirming your booking. All holidays and holiday activities that we advertise are accurate at the date published in our brochures and on our website, but we reserve the right to make alterations to the itineraries for reasons beyond our reasonable control such as bad weather, or failure by any of our third party suppliers.

Call charges Calls to our 0208 123 5049 phone number are charged at standard UK landline rate. Your call may be redirected to us in Spain but this will be at no cost to yourself.

Offices No. of days notice given Cancellation charge 42 days or more

Loss of deposit

Between 21 and 42 days 50% of total price Less than 21 days

100% of total price

Hike Pyrenees Limited Registered No. 06452828 Head Office: 97 Sylvia Avenue Pinner HA5 4QN

To check the availability of any of our holidays drop us an email at info@hikepyrenees.co.uk, call us on +44 (0)208 123 5049 or go to our website.

If you’d like any advice on which holiday would suit you best then please give us a call and we’d be glad to help.

Complete the booking form online at : www.hikepyrenees.co.uk/booking

We require a £75 deposit per person which can be paid by cheque, bank transfer or by credit/debit card.

We’ll send you a booking confirmation straight away. The balance of your holiday is due six weeks before departure - we’ll send you a reminder and your holiday information pack at this time.

Registered office: 9 The Fairway Northwood HA6 3DZ

Please send booking forms, deposits and all correspondence to our Pinner head office.

tel: +44 (0)208 123 5049 info@hikepyrenees.co.uk skype: hikepyrenees

hikepyrenees.co.uk +44 (0)20 8123 5049 info@hikepyrenees.co.uk