High Pyrenees

Introduction
Pyrenees Spain
The Benasque Valley is nestled in the middle of the highest peaks of the Pyrenees. 

We will ride along bridle paths and tracks, marveling at the spectacular and very varied scenery. The tour takes place in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, where the highest peak of the Pyrenees is found: the Aneto (3404m).

During the week, we ride through different altitudinal floors, giving us the opportunity to enjoy different landscapes: riparian vegetation, mixed forest, black pine forests, alpine meadows and the high mountain with its peaks, glaciers and perpetual snow.

Accomodation

Accommodations
This is a stationary ride so you will be staying at the same accommodation each night.

Description
This small hotel beautifully blends in with the surrounding environment. The rooms are simple but comfortable and all come equipped with a private bathroom, a phone, TV and heating. 
There is free wi-fi available at this property. 

Room Occupancy
Single and Triple occupancy is sometimes possible, please inquire.
In case we are unable to find you a roommate, a single supplement fee will apply.



Meals
All meals are included from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on the last day.

Breakfasts and dinners are eaten at the hotel.
Lunches will be brought with us from the hotel in the saddlebags.

The cuisine features Mediterranean food, with excellent meat.
Some wine is included with dinners.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to dietary restrictions if given prior notice.

This trip includes some wine with dinner and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding

Horses
Our horses live in a state of semi-freedom. They are used to walking through the mountains on difficult roads and crossing rivers. They are reliable and have stamina. They like to work outdoors and love people.

Riding Level
We ask riders to be in good physical conditions as we will spend about 6 hours in the saddle per day for 6 days in a row.
At some points, riders will have to lead their horse. Participants should have control of their horse and be used to riding outdoors.
The pace of our rides is dictated by the terrain. Mos of the time we will go at a walk with some opportunities for trots when the terrain allows. At some point, we might be able to enjoy some canters.

Itinerary


Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

The horses will spend the night in the mountains and at the end of each stage and the riders will be picked up and transferred back to their hotel for the night (no more than 27km). These transfers are included in the price.

Day 1: Arrival
Once you arrive in the village of Anciles, you will enjoy a guided tour of the beautiful and historic stonehouses.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Hotel near Anciles

Day 2: First Ride 
After breakfast, we go to the stables to meet the horses. Our route passes through a mixed forest, until we reach the village of Cerler. Located at 1540 m high, it is one of the highest village in the Pyrenees. Once we leave the village, the landscape changes as we climb higher. We are now crossing a pine forest. With some luck, we might see a grouse or bearded vultures. We will eventually reach a high mountain plateau (2000m high) with a great view on the valley below.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel near Anciles

Day 3: Solano Valley Ride
Today, we cross the Solano Valley. Our route will pass by the Pico Cerler, from where we can see the Massifs of Maladeta, Perdigero, Posets and Turbon.
Not too long before the end of our ride, we will cross a beautiful a Roman bridge and two lovely villages (Liri and Ramastue).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel near Anciles

Day 4: Sierra de Chia
This morning, we will discover mountain villages with a unique architecture. We ride on bridle paths, crossing rivers and drinking refreshing mountain water from the Sierra de Chia. We will stop at the Virgen de la Garcia, a beautiful Lombard Romanesque church from the 12th century. It was originally built from pilgrims making their way to Santiago de Compostela.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel near Anciles

Day 5: Collado de Sahun
We ride across a mixed forest, before ascending the Collado de Sahun at 2025 meter above sea level. This pass connects two valleys: Benasque & Plan. On our way down, we see 2 beautiful waterfalls from the lake of Barbarisa, where we take a break.
Once back in the saddle, we ride on a narrow path through a forest of aspens, birches and oak trees.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel near Anciles

Day 6: Estós Valley 
We head to Benasque, the town that gave its name to this valley. On our way, we will find remains of the Civil War.
We will rice across the stunning Estós Valley, where we might see some cattle.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel near Anciles

Day 7: Portillon de Benasque
For our last riding day, we head down the valley. On our way down, we pass by the Portillon de Benasque, one of the most emblematic places in the valley!
Today, we ride through the heart of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel near Anciles

Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, it is time to go.
Meals included: Breakfast

Rates and Dates for High Pyrenees

Dates Note:

Other Info
Meeting: Anciles
Airport: Zaragoza airport
Transfer: Zaragoza airport

Climate:
                                                Anciles area