The Spanish Pyrenees road trip remains one of my favorite Spanish adventures to date. While this mountainous region of Spain is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and ski enthusiasts, many of its top local gems are easily accessible on a simple road trip, even if you’re not a sports lover. Let me share with you all the incredible places that made me fall in love with the Spanish Pyrenees!

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The Spanish Pyrenees 4-day Road Trip Itinerary

Where are the Pyrenees?

The Pyrenees are a mountain range that forms a natural border between France and Spain, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Mediterranean Sea in the east. The range spans both France and Spain, while also being home to the small European country of Andorra. The French Pyrenees are well-established on the tourist track, with famous locations like the Cirque de Gavarnie and Lourdes, while the Spanish Pyrenees were traditionally more of a local destination for Spaniards. However, this has changed in recent years.

In Spain, the Pyrenees are spread across four main regions: Catalonia, Aragon, Navarra, and a small portion of the Basque Country. Areas in the Spanish Pyrenees, like Vall d’Aran and the Catalan Pyrenees, have been gaining significant popularity lately. For those seeking hidden gems, the Aragonese Pyrenees remain a lesser-known destination for international travelers, and it’s where the itinerary for this post is focused.

What are the Pyrenees of Spain known for?

The Pyrenees are known for offering some of the most stunning landscapes in Spain, iconic hiking trails, national parks, and adventurous activities. In winter, this mountain range is famous for its top-rated ski resorts, such as Grandvalira in Andorra and Baqueira-Beret in Spain. The Pyrenees are one of the best destinations for nature lovers in Europe. Some areas have been famous for their thermal baths for centuries, like Panticosa and the lesser-known Termas Baronia de Les, while Andorra’s Caldea is the largest spa in the Pyrenees. This mountain region is also renowned for its charming small towns, delicious local cuisine, and rich cultural and historical significance, featuring ancient Romanesque churches and sitting along pilgrimage routes such as the Camino de Santiago.

Best time to visit the Pyrenees

The Pyrenees offer a unique travel experience year-round, with each season bringing its own charm and opportunities for adventure. Summer, which is the peak season, is ideal for hiking, climbing, and camping, while winter attracts skiers from Europe.

For me, the best times to visit are late spring and early autumn. During these seasons, the weather is still pleasant – temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) – but there are fewer tourists, making for a more peaceful experience. Autumn, in particular, unveils some of the Pyrenees’ most breathtaking fall foliage, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows transforming the landscape into a picturesque paradise.

However, March and November can be tricky months to plan a road trip in the Pyrenees, as the weather is unpredictable. In some recent years, these months have been perfect for hiking, with mild temperatures and clear skies, but other years have seen snow and chilly conditions, especially at higher elevations. The temperatures in March can range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), while November temperatures can vary between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F), depending on altitude. As a result, planning a trip during these months requires flexibility and a bit of luck with the weather.

How long to stay in the Pyrenees?

The Pyrenees are a fantastic destination, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full two-week trip. If you have 2 to 4 days, I recommend focusing on just one region of the Pyrenees – either the Pyrenees of Aragon, Catalonia, or Navarre. You can check out my 7-day itinerary here, my 10-day road trip here, and a complete 2-week itinerary in this post. Additionally, you can find more travel tips and hidden gems in the Pyrenees featured on the blog under the hashtag #Pyrenees.

About this 4-day Pyrenees Itinerary

ince we only had four days to make the most of our trip to the Pyrenees, I decided to focus our itinerary on the Aragon region. The Spanish Pyrenees in Aragon consist of five main valleys: Valle del Cinca, Valle del Chistau, Valle de Ordesa, Valle de Añisclo, Valle del Ara, and Valle del Tena. Keep in mind that it’s impossible to fully explore all of these valleys in just four days. Nevertheless, four days is still a great time frame for a Pyrenees getaway – it’s just not enough to see everything.

To get a quick glimpse of my Spanish Pyrenees Road Trip – check Pyrenees Reel and Highlights on IG.

Pyrenees Travel Tips

• Pack layers: The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so bring layers, waterproof gear, and sun protection.
• Rent a car: Public transport is limited in the Pyrenees, so renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore remote villages and natural parks.
• Book accommodation in advance: Especially during peak winter/summer seasons the popular areas can fill up quickly.
• Respect the environment: The Pyrenees are home to fragile ecosystems and protected wildlife (also popular for birdwatching), follow marked trails, take your litter with you, and respect local rules.
• Stay hydrated and bring all the necessary hiking essentials.

Where to stay in the Pyrenees of Spain

During my first visit to the Pyrenees, we stayed at the Barceló Monasterio de Boltaña. It’s one of the best hotels with a spa in the Pyrenees, offering spacious rooms and reasonable prices, especially considering the high quality of the services. While exploring the Catalonian Pyrenees, we also stayed at the budget-friendly Apartamentos Chuandervera in the small town of Laspaules.

For this particular 4-day road trip through the Pyrenees, we planned to do more hiking, so we chose an apartment in Escalona (though, for some reason, it’s no longer available on booking.com). However, the charming medieval town of Aínsa is a fantastic alternative, with several lovely boutique hotels to choose from, such as Alojamientos Ainsa Sanchez and Los Siete Reyes. I’m also fond of other unique places to stay in the area, including Hotel Boutique Mediodía & Apartments, Casa Lascorz, and Casa de San Martín.

Best places to visit on a Spanish Pyrenees road trip

Spanish Pyrenees Itinerary – Day 1

Cañon de Añisclo

Our Spanish Pyrenees road trip started with a beautiful drive along the Añisclo Canyon to the parking Aparcamiento San Urbez. The local road HU-631 taking us there was so beautiful.

From Aparcamiento San Urbez you have a few hiking trail options. One of the easiest is Ruta por el Cañon de Añisclo, an easy 45-minute walk (2km) that made it to my lists of favorite hikes in Spain and Top Trails of The Pyrenees.

During this route, even in the summer months, you’ll be hidden from the annoying heat by the spectacular local greenery. Along the way, you’ll encounter the remains of an ancient watermill Molino de Aso, a waterfall, the cave-church Ermita de San Urbez, and the Medieval bridge Puente Medieval de San Urbez. Prepared hikers have a few alternatives to make this route longer by taking another trail near Ermita de San Urbez towards the village of Sercué, La Ripareta, and Fuen Blanca (you might have up to 5-6 hours of walking one way).

Ainsa

In the afternoon, we made our way to one of the most picturesque Pyrenees medieval towns – Aínsa. Although we had visited Aínsa during our previous trip to Huesca, this enchanting hilltop village was so close to our apartment in Escalona that we couldn’t resist the opportunity to stroll through its charming cobblestone streets once again. However, I couldn’t help but notice that this time, Aínsa felt much more touristy than before. The town’s popularity has certainly increased, but it still retains its historic charm and is often listed as one of the top medieval towns in all of Spain.

While exploring Aínsa, there are several must-see sights to check out. Make sure not to miss La Plaza Mayor de Aínsa, the stunning main square, Castillo de Aínsa, the impressive medieval castle that offers a glimpse into the town’s history, and Iglesia de Santa María, a beautiful Romanesque church that’s rich in architectural detail.

For breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, be sure to visit Mirador Balcón de Aínsa and Mirador del Cinca. These viewpoints provide stunning vistas of the town, the river, and the mountains beyond. And if you’re up for a short drive, just 18 km from Aínsa, you can enjoy another epic panorama at Castillo de Samitier. This hidden gem offers some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring views in the region, making it well worth the trip.

Spanish Pyrenees Itinerary – Day 2

Canfranc

On our second day in the Spanish Pyrenees, we woke up early once again to head to Canfranc and enjoy breakfast in this charming town. Canfranc is most famous for its iconic Canfranc Train Station, which now houses a recently reopened luxury hotel. The station is a stunning example of Modernist architecture, stretching an impressive 241 meters in length. With 150 gates and nearly 350 windows, the station’s grand design highlights its historical significance. Inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1929, the station was once a hub of luxury and activity, featuring a hotel, casino, and customs office all within the same building.

Throughout its history, Canfranc Train Station has played a crucial role in European transit, especially during World War II. It became an important crossing point for the trade of gold and stolen artworks, and it also served as a refuge for Jewish refugees fleeing the conflict.

Astun

After breakfast in Canfranc, we headed to the Astun Ski Station, where we took a lift up to start the famous hiking trail known as the Ruta de los 7 Lagos de Astun (also called 7 Ibones de Astun or Ruta de Lagos de Ayous). This hike quickly became one of the highlights of our Spanish Pyrenees road trip, even for the kids.

What could be more mesmerizing than the sight of crystal-clear glacial lakes, framed by snow-capped mountains, with no one else in sight? This route is easily one of the most epic Spanish hiking trails I’ve experienced. The trail begins at the Astun Ski Station and takes you past seven glacial lakes, which are located across both Spain and France.

Aside from the breathtaking views, the 7 Ibones de Astun route offers the unique experience of crossing the Spain-France border multiple times in a single day. While it’s often described as suitable for hikers of all levels, I personally found it to be somewhat challenging. Keep in mind that you’ll be walking at an altitude of 2,100 meters, where the reduced oxygen can make the hike feel more strenuous. Although the trail is only 13.55 km long, it requires good physical condition to complete.

That said, if a full hike isn’t for you, consider taking the lift to the first lake, Ibon de Truchas, and simply enjoying a walk around it. You can also easily reach the nearby Ibon de Escalar, as the trail is quite easy up to that point. Beyond that, however, the hike becomes more demanding as you ascend to complete the full 7 Lakes of Astun trail.

Nevertheless, this stunning route remains one of my favorite hikes in the Pyrenees, offering unforgettable views and a sense of adventure that’s hard to match.

Jaca

In the afternoon/evening, we headed to Jaca. The initial plan was to visit the Museum of Military Miniatures at the Ciudadela de Jaca. The Ciudadela de Jaca is a 16th-century military fortress with a unique star-shaped design, offering both historical insight and stunning views of the surrounding area. However, they wouldn’t let us in 40 minutes before closing, explaining that visitors need at least two hours to see the entire museum. This isn’t the first time I’ve encountered such a policy in Spain, but I still don’t quite understand it. If I’m willing to pay the entrance fee and leave before closing time, why does it matter how long I spend inside? (*Here, I’ll update that we recently returned to Jaca on a new family trip to the Pyrenees and finally visited the museum. It was good, though traveling with a small child meant we only spent around 20–30 minutes inside anyway.)

In Jaca, make sure not to miss the San Pedro Cathedral, and the San Miguel Bridge, as they are all well worth a visit. The San Pedro Cathedral, one of the oldest Romanesque cathedrals in Spain, boasts an impressive collection of medieval art and intricate stonework. Just a short drive outside the city, you can explore the charming village of Santa Cruz de la Serós, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Here, you’ll find the Iglesia de San Caprasio and the Church of Santa María, both steeped in history.

More ideas

If you don’t plan to hike in Astun, keep in mind that there are several other fascinating places to explore nearby. One such attraction is the Cueva de las Güixas, a stunning cave system known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as its history of sheltering humans for centuries (note, that you need to book your entrance in advance). Another great spot is the Ecoparque El Juncaral, a family-friendly outdoor adventure park offering a variety of activities like zip-lining, canoeing, and nature trails. For history enthusiasts, the Fuerte de Rapitán, a 19th-century military fortress, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and offers insight into the region’s past.

Additionally, just a short drive from Jaca, you’ll find another must-visit landmark in the Pyrenees: the Real Monasterio de San Juan de la Peña. This ancient monastery is one of Spain’s most hidden and beautiful religious sites. It’s steeped in history, having once been a royal burial site, and its unique location, carved into the rock face, makes it a truly awe-inspiring sight in the Pyrenees. Visitors can explore both the old and new monastery, learning about the religious and cultural significance of this remarkable site.

Spanish Pyrenees Itinerary – Day 3

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park

On the third day of our road trip through the Spanish Pyrenees, we planned a visit to one of Spain’s most beautiful national parks – Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. Its most iconic peak is Monte Perdido (which translates to “the Lost Mountain” in English), and it holds the distinction of being the highest limestone massif in Europe.

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails in the Pyrenees, including Tozal de Mallo, La Cascada del Estrecho, Gradas de Soaso, Bosque de las Hayas, Cañón de Añisclo, Cola de Caballo, and the Gargantas de Escuaín.

Access to the park is restricted to protect its natural environment. Visitors must leave their vehicles at the free parking lot in the small town of Torla and then take a bus to the national park. The bus departs from the Torla-Ordesa Visitor Center. I found this system both convenient and environmentally friendly. Along the way, we spotted several small deer crossing the road – a sight that would likely be impossible with the congestion and noise of private cars running 24/7.

While the most famous hike in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is likely the Ruta Cola de Caballo, we opted for a lesser-known trail – the Ruta Circo de Cotatuero. Although it involved some elevation gain, we encountered very few people along the trail, allowing us to enjoy a peaceful and serene hike in this stunning natural setting.

Boltaña

In the evening, we made our way to the quaint town of Boltaña, stopping briefly in the nearby village of Broto to admire the stunning waterfall Cascada de Sorrosal. Even though we had already stayed at a hotel near Boltaña during our last trip to Huesca, I didn’t mind returning. This small town is incredibly charming, with its peaceful atmosphere making it an ideal spot to revisit.

Boltaña is a perfect place to take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, where you can admire the traditional stone buildings that showcase the region’s rustic architecture. The town’s relaxed pace makes it a great place to unwind, and it offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local cuisine. There are several restaurants and cafés where you can savor authentic Aragonese dishes, such as lamb, migas, or traditional stews, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. In Boltaña, can explore the ancient 17th-century Monastery of San Victorián, which offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

Spanish Pyrenees Itinerary – Day 4

Panticosa

On the final morning of our Spanish Pyrenees road trip, we set off for the Lake of Panticosa, located near the Panticosa Spa, both of which are about 8 kilometers from the small town of Panticosa. During this visit, we had time to explore only Ibón de Los Baños (also known as Lake of Panticosa) and the impressive Cascadas del Argualas waterfall.

Although the Panticosa Spa has origins dating back to the Roman Empire, it disappeared during the medieval period. However, in the 19th century, it was revived as a luxurious villa capable of hosting up to 1,500 guests, attracting the elite and famous figures of the time. Notable Spanish historical figures, including Niceto Alcalá Zamora, Santiago Ramón y Cajal, and Primo de Rivera, were among those who once frequented Panticosa.

Although the Panticosa Spa is still operational today, its reviews suggest that it is in need of restoration. Despite this, the spa retains echoes of its former glory. (*As an update, we finally visited the spa this past summer, and our experience was surprisingly good. While it could benefit from some renovation, the outdoor pool, surrounded by mountain forests, was absolutely epic. We visited in July, and the spa was not overcrowded, which made for a very relaxing experience.)

At Ibón de Los Baños, you’ll also find several hiking trails, many of which lead to nearby mountain peaks. Waterfalls like Salto del Pino, Argualas, and Salto de El Fraile can be enjoyed along the way. For the most spectacular views of the area, make sure to stop by the Mirador de La Reina, where you’ll be treated to a panoramic vista of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Tirolina Valle de Tena

The final experience of our Spanish Pyrenees road trip was Tirolina Valle Tena, known as the longest double zip line in Europe. The views were absolutely breathtaking. It turned out to be a solo adventure for me, as my husband isn’t into adrenaline-pumping activities, and the kids were still too young to try it.

While I initially thought it would be much scarier, the ride turned out to be incredibly enjoyable, with views that were simply unmatched. I’m hoping to have the chance to experience it again, perhaps at night or during the winter when the snowy landscape creates a completely different atmosphere. The landscape in the Pyrenees changes so much with the seasons, and I’m excited to see it from the zip line again in the future.

This Pyrenees road trip on the map

This map shows the exact locations of all the places I visited during this Spanish Pyrenees road trip.

Pyrenees Bucket List: Best things to do in the Pyrenees

While you can find numerous stories and tips about the Pyrenees on the blog (under the hashtag #pyrenees), if you’re visiting this mountain range for the first time, it can be overwhelming to wrap your mind around so many unique things to do. To make things easier, I’ve put together a “First-timers’ Pyrenees Bucket List,” featuring the places I consider the most unique in this stunning mountain range. You can also check out the list of the most iconic Pyrenees hikes in this post.

Books about the Pyrenees

If you are looking for more visual inspiration or historical/practical data on the Pyrenees region, there are a few books you might enjoy – Shorter Treks in the Pyrenees or Walks and Climbs in the Pyrenees (focused on the French Pyrenees).

Planning to read something about the Pyrenees on the road? – Check Footprints on the mountains, Boundaries, The Savage Frontier, Cruel Crossing, and If you only walk long enough. Alternatively, you can pick something from the contemporary Spanish bestsellers or Wanderlust books.

If you know Spanish, check out: Pirineos. Mas allá de las montañas, Los Pirineos, Leyendas de brujas en el Pirineo fantástico, Pirineos: 50 joyas del arte románico, Pirineos : montaña sublime, 101 Lugares de los Pirineos sorprendentes.

More Pyrenees Travel Tips

• Top Adventurous Things to Do in the Pyrenees (read it)
• Beautiful Small Towns in the Spanish Pyrenees (read it)
• Exploring The Pre-Pyrenees of Spain: A weekend in Sierra de Guara (read it)
• Cogost de Montrebei: The Most Adventurous Hike in Spain (read it)
• Epic 7 Days in the Pyrenees of Spain (read it)
• 10-Day Pyrenees Itinerary: An Ultimate Road Trip from Madrid (read it)
• Hiking Trails in The Pyrenees You Can Not Miss (read it)
• Top Beautiful Places to Visit in the Spanish Pyrenees (read it)
• Exploring the Pyrenees of Catalonia (read it)
• 5 Epic Reasons to Visit the Pyrenees with Kids (read it)
• Top Romantic Things to do in Andorra (read it)
• The Spanish Pyrenees Road Trip 4-Day Itinerary (read it)
• Skiing in Spain: Our Baqueira Beret Family Getaway (read it)
• Top Things to Do in Andorra (read it)
• Best Foods in the Pyrenees of Spain (read it)
• My Top Hiking Essentials On The Go (read it)
• 3 days in the Pyrenees of Aragon with Seniors & Kids (read it)

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