The most beautiful village in the Spanish Pyrenees: it’s not Vielha
Among soaring mountain peaks, flowing rivers and colour-changing seasonal meadows, the villages of the Pyrenees encompass a beauty and history difficult to describe and impossible to forget. Each village is a universe of stone and timber where age-old traditions are nurtured and nature sets the pace of life.
A heartfelt proclamation of love for Pyrenean villages
Fascinating Spain pays tribute to the magic of the Pyrenees by asking via Facebook poll what village in this region is the most breathtaking. Mementos, photographs and anecdotes were shared, all of which express a profound fondness for this enchanting region.
Before any votes are counted, it must be said that the true beauty of the Pyrenees clearly lies in its people, whose devotion nurtures these extraordinary places. The custodians of these mountains’ legacy willingly share their expertise and make their vote an expression of love for Pyrenean landscapes.
The most repeated names
A quick glimpse at participants’ comments is enough to cast the mind to these majestic mountain settings. Evocative names such as Gistaín, Bagergue and Lanuza all appear and deservedly so.
Accordingly, Hecho in the province of Huesca is the fifth-most voted village in the ranking. With its own alluring dialect and the magnificent San Pedro de Siresa Monastery, Hecho never fails to captivate.
Sallent de Gállego earns the fourth spot according to the travelling community for its natural surroundings, easy-going people and perhaps, in no small part, for being the village with the most bars in Spain. What is certain is the indelible image of Sallent de Gállego’s slate-sculpted contours.
The bronze-medal winner is awarded to Benasque, one of the Pyrenees’ preeminent villages. Nestled in the Escondido Valley and port of entry between Aragón and France, Benasque brings out the best of itself during the cold season, transforming into a picturesque winter wonderland.
Torla, the number two most-voted village and also in Huesca province, lies along the French border near Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, one of the marvels of the Pyrenees. Torla’s silhouette amidst the gigantic green mountains is a truly remarkable sight.
The most beautiful village in the Pyrenees
The village voted the Pyrenees’ most beautiful is Aínsa, another breathtaking village in Huesca province. Visitors often describe Aínsa as an authentic treasure that even boasts a castle in in its main square.
Aínsa’s attractions include its labyrinthine old quarter permeating with medieval lore and the vibrant blue waters of its nearby river. Aínsa dazzles from every perspective and Fascinating Spain’s followers have voted it the Pyrenees’ most stunning village.
You can also read this article in Spanish and French.
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