The Sierra de Guara in spring - canyons, sun and tapas
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationAragon / Spain
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AgeFrom 12 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions108.35 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
Spanish
In a few words
Treat yourself to an intensely refreshing getaway in the heart of a sun-drenched mountain range, where the scent of rosemary fills the air, the spirit of tapas and the Mediterranean lifestyle are alive and well. An ideal escape to enjoy the May bank holidays , between the gentle warmth of spring and the fresh mountain air.
Nestled at the bottom of a spectacular canyon, the village of Rodellar welcomes you to an authentic and unspoiled atmosphere. Here, everything is explored on foot : scenic trails, rock formations sculpted by time, natural pools perfect for swimming , and sweeping vistas of wild landscapes. This magnificent setting combines raw nature , geological wonders, and prehistoric and medieval heritage, offering an immersive experience that is both cultural and contemplative.
Between limestone gorges, dazzling light, and a warm atmosphere, each day invites you to slow down and savor the moment. On the way back, discovering the magnificent city of Alquézar , a medieval jewel perched above the canyons, perfectly completes this getaway.
A short but intense stay, combining magnificent landscapes , history , refreshing swims and conviviality, for a real breath of fresh air with a decidedly Mediterranean character.
The highlights
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A village that feels like the end of the world
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The colors of the rivers are a feast for the eyes along the hikes.
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Small swims are possible
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
Flexible and adaptable outputs for everyone.
However, the planned program and the somewhat stony terrain of the Sierra require a minimum level of physical fitness.
Get ready to fully enjoy this magnificent stay!
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 5h
- Average distance/day: 11 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 483 m
- Average daily descent: 483 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
English
Spanish
A specialist guide in the field, who knows the classics and variations like the back of his hand!
With the added advantage of being able to provide you with a wealth of information on the fauna, flora, and history of the valleys like you couldn't find anywhere else!
Guided by a state-certified mountain guide
Program
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Arrival and warm-up exit above the village of Cheto
- Transportation Minibus - 04h - 450km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 370 m
- Negative elevation 370 m
- Accommodation Shared chalet
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Transfer scheduled from Lourdes and Argelès-Gazost, arrival around noon in Rodellar. Check-in at accommodation.
In the afternoon, we will hike from Rodellar to the old village of Cheto. The route through the olive groves is typical of the area.
We will then continue our walk through the garrigue to reach a very pretty viewpoint overlooking the Mascun canyon and its striking geology. We will then retrace our steps slightly to follow a small path towards the Virgen hermitage.
Then we will reach the bottom of the Mascun canyon and its crystal-clear waters, crossing a few fords that will require getting your feet wet!
Finally, we will head back up towards the village of Rodellar, encountering some Neolithic rock paintings along the way, always moving!
Day 1 -
All the variety of the Sierra in one day
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 660 m
- Negative elevation 660 m
- Accommodation Shared chalet
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Breakfast at the accommodation.
Today we will explore the beautiful landscapes of Guara, starting with a steep descent to reach the bottom of the Mascun. We will then follow the river before climbing again through the limestone formations of the area.
At the end of this trail, we will reach the Losa Mora dolmen, dating back 4,000 years. The view of the snow-capped Pyrenees from this historically significant site is magnificent. The village of Nasarre is nearby and could be an optional excursion.
Retracing our steps, we'll soon begin a short climb to reach a wild path winding through the boxwood. If time allows, we'll then descend almost literally to discover the marvelous pools of the Barrasil River. We'll find ourselves at the bottom of a canyon, a characteristic feature of the Rodellar area. From there, we'll have to climb back up to escape and reach the village of Rodellar via an ancient suspension bridge spanning the river. Magnificent!
Day 2 -
The Mascun ledges
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 18 km
- Positive elevation gain 710 m
- Negative elevation 710 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Shared chalet
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Breakfast at the accommodation.
Warning, you are not ready, this outing is surely one of the most beautiful in all the Aragonese sierras.
We will start our day again by going to the bottom of the Mascun, we never tire of this first half hour in this setting.
Then we will go back up the river, leaving yesterday's route on our left. Soon we will arrive at the foot of a steep climb, where the geological wonders are revealed up close.
After this effort, we will reach the outskirts of the abandoned village of Otin, from which we will head towards the beginning of the Faja del Mascun.
This easy path overlooks the bottom of the emerald waters canyon, and the numerous birds of prey will keep us company, enough to give us a stiff neck.
Finally, after this first traverse, we will tackle the impressive Raisen traverse, which will require our full attention. Some sections are quite exposed, but if anyone suffers too much from vertigo, it is possible to skip it and take a nap in the shade of the poplar trees.
At the end of the Raisen ledge, we will be rewarded by reaching the Lanas waterfall, with its pools and cascade amidst the ochre rocks. Absolutely breathtaking…
We will then take the long way back, returning to the village of Otin without going through the Mascun ledge, and returning to our accommodation with eyes full of memories.
Day 3 -
Explore Alquezar and the Vero footbridges, then return
- Transportation Minibus - 04h - 450km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 4 km
- Positive elevation gain 190 m
- Negative elevation 190 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast at the accommodation, then a 45-minute transfer to the village of Alquezar.
On the way back to France, we'll make a short detour to discover the amazing city of Alquezar. An architectural gem, which we'll explore by wandering its narrow streets to reach the starting point of the footbridge hike.
It's a classic and popular route, but well worth the detour, as the bottom of the Rio Vero is a splendor of colors, especially when using the walkways that allow you to stay dry. A short, easy, and delightful stroll before heading back to France in the afternoon.
Day 4
Accommodation
Valle de Rodellar Aparthotel
Access
The round-trip transfer from Lourdes to the village of Rodellar is included in the stay. It is also possible to join the transfer from Argelès-Gazost.
Go to the starting point
Regular trains serve Lourdes station from all major cities.
Tarbes Lourdes airport has daily flights from Paris, with the airline Volotea.
If needed, we can arrange a transfer for you, at an additional cost. Contact us!
You can choose to take your own vehicle if you wish, without the possibility of a further discount.
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be supervised by a state-certified mountain guide.
- Accommodation in a shared twin room at the gîte
- Full board from dinner on Day 1 to picnic lunch on Day 4
- The transfer (round trip) from Lourdes or Argelès-Gazost
The price does not include
- Day 1 picnic
- The journey to the meeting point
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Suitable walking shoes, preferably with very good ankle support, and with a notched sole.
- 1 backpack of approximately 30 liters
- 1 waterproof bag or heavy-duty bin bag to keep belongings dry.
- 1 water bottle of at least 1.5 litres (remember to fill it) + 1 small thermos if possible.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen.
- A sleeping bag liner ("sleeping bag") for the night.
- 1 small toiletry kit + 1 small personal first-aid kit + toilet paper.
- 1 headlamp.
- Good quality sunglasses, a cap or hat.
- A snack, cereal bars, cakes, energy fruits for breaks.
- Camera, binoculars if you wish!
- Lunch for day 1.
Clothing to bring
- 1 long-sleeved t-shirt (preferably made of synthetic material or merino wool).
- 4 short-sleeved t-shirts (preferably made of synthetic material or merino wool).
- 1 thin long-sleeved fleece.
- 1 warm and thick garment (sweater, thick fleece, down jacket…).
- 1 waterproof jacket.
- 1 short.
- 1 Mountain trousers.
- 1 change of pants, jogging pants or tights for the evening.
- 1 Bonnet.
- 1 pair of thin gloves.
- 4 pairs of hiking socks.
- 1 swimsuit and a towel.
