Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Zaragoza
You land in Zaragoza, and we’ll drive you about 2 hours to a charming parador in the Pyrenees foothills, all stone walls and cozy vibes. Tonight’s a relaxed welcome dinner at the parador, with Aragonese dishes like migas (fried breadcrumbs) and a glass of local Garnacha. Your guide runs through the week’s plan over dessert—maybe some homemade flan. Take a quick evening stroll or crash early for tomorrow’s adventure.
Day 2: Ainsa’s Medieval Magic
After breakfast (think fresh bread and mountain honey), we head to Ainsa, a medieval village that’s straight out of a storybook. Your guide leads you through cobbled streets, past the 12th-century castle and Romanesque church. Lunch is at a local meson—try ternasco (roast lamb) with a side of patatas. Afternoon’s for a short, guided walk around Ainsa’s plaza, soaking in the history. Evening brings a cheese tasting with local varieties like Tronchón, paired with wine. Dinner’s on your own; we’ll suggest a tavern for hearty soup.
Day 3: Ordesa National Park Trek
Time to hike! After a hearty breakfast, we drive to Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park (about 1 hour). Today’s a 3-4 hour guided trek through the Ordesa Valley—think waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and maybe a glimpse of chamois. Your guide shares tips on the park’s wildlife. Picnic lunch by a stream, with local bread and cheeses. Back to the parador for a chill evening; dinner’s included, featuring dishes like Pyrenean trout. If you’re beat, swap the hike for a shorter walk—just let us know.
Day 4: Cable Car and Mountain Views
Morning takes you to the Pyrenees’ heights with a cable car ride in Panticosa or Formigal. The views are insane—snow-capped peaks and green valleys. Your guide points out peaks and shares local legends. Lunch is at a mountain refuge, think bean stew and crusty bread. Afternoon’s for a lighter guided walk (1-2 hours) around a alpine meadow, or you can chill with a coffee. Back to the parador; dinner’s on your own, but we’ll point you to a spot for grilled meats or veggie dishes.
Day 5: Alquézar’s Hidden Trails
A short drive to Alquézar, a hilltop village with serious charm. Morning’s for a guided hike (2-3 hours) along the Vero River, with canyons and prehistoric cave paintings—your guide’s got the stories. Lunch is at a local eatery, maybe with borage soup or rabbit stew. Afternoon’s for exploring Alquézar’s Collegiate Church, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic. Check into a new parador nearby. Dinner’s included, with Aragonese classics like pollo al chilindrón (chicken with peppers).
Day 6: Jaca and Pyrenean Culture
Drive to Jaca, about an hour away, and settle into a historic parador near the old town. Your guide takes you to Jaca’s Citadel, a star-shaped fortress, and the Romanesque cathedral—one of Spain’s oldest. Lunch is at a cozy meson, think migas with sausage. Afternoon’s free to wander Jaca’s streets or shop for local crafts like wool blankets. Evening brings another cheese tasting, this time with Pyrenean goat cheeses and a splash of Somontano wine. Dinner’s on your own; we’ll suggest a spot for tapas.
Day 7: Ordesa’s High Trails
Back to Ordesa for a different trek, this time a 3-4 hour guided hike to the Cola de Caballo waterfall—stunning views and fresh mountain air. Your guide shares bits about the park’s geology. Picnic lunch with local jamón and fruit. Afternoon’s for relaxing at the trailhead or a short village visit nearby. Back to the parador in Jaca; dinner’s included, with hearty dishes like Pyrenean lamb stew. Swap the hike for an easier trail or a cultural stop if you prefer.
Day 8: Sos del Rey Católico and Farewell
Morning drive to Sos del Rey Católico, a medieval gem about 1.5 hours away. Your guide leads you through its stone streets, past the birthplace of King Ferdinand. It’s like stepping into the Middle Ages. Lunch is at a local tavern—try roasted pork or trucha a la navarra (trout). Afternoon’s free to explore or relax with a coffee in the plaza. Back to Zaragoza for a farewell dinner at a parador, with a spread of Aragonese specialties and plenty of wine to toast the trip.
Day 9: Departure
After a leisurely breakfast—maybe some magdalenas and strong coffee—we’ll drive you to Zaragoza’s airport. If you’ve got time, grab a quick café con leche in the city. You’re leaving with mountain memories and maybe a chunk of local cheese in your bag.
What’s Included
8 nights in historic paradores (3-4 star, double occupancy)
Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 3 dinners (including cheese tastings)
Guided treks in Ordesa National Park and Alquézar
Cable car ride for panoramic views
Guided tours of Ainsa, Jaca, and Sos del Rey Católico
Private transfers (comfortable van)
Local bilingual guides
Customization options (e.g., add a wine tasting, spa day, or extra hike)
