Huesca has proved to Europe that it is a paradise for hiking, climbing, and water sports lovers and for everyone who seeks adrenaline, under the motto “The magic of the adventure.” In addition, it has a majestic historic heritage of Romanesque architecture and beautiful villages. There is no doubt that Huesca is a true gem for all types of tourists. Let’s look at the main adventure tourism attractions of this area, a large offer that should be on every explorer’s bucket list.

The mountains are calling

There is nothing like reaching the top of a mountain after a long climb. And if said mountain is more than 3,000 metres tall, we are talking about a huge achievement that most people can’t accomplish. Many of the highest mountains in the central Pyrenees are located in Huesca. The Aneto is the most renowned of them, a peak that attracts every climbing lover with its sights and glaciers.

However, there are many other areas of the province where you can enjoy the formidable closeness to the mountains, like Valles Occidentales, on the frontier with Navarra, or the impressive location of Posets-Maladeta. In the last one, you will find numerous wonders, such as the Forau de Aigualluts, a sinkhole and a waterfall in the heart of a landscape you will never forget. Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido lies between these examples and charms every visitor with corners as unique as Gargantas de Escuaín. Huesca’s Pyrenean area is full of possibilities for going on memorable routes of all degrees of difficulty.

To test the water

There is always water by a mountain. Alto Aragón has a large offer of aquatic spaces to perform every possible type of water sport. This is the main attraction for many people who want to have the best time of their lives, especially in the summer. Rafting is one of the most popular choices, and the Cinca and Ésera Rivers are perfect for it. Kayak is another favourite and allows a more relaxing experience (if that’s what you’re looking for) in magical environments such as Congost de Mont-Rebei, Noguera Ribagorzana, and Pantano de Mediano, where the old bell tower of a sunken village sticks out of the water.

But there is so much more to do in Huesca. For instance, you could go canyoning, which is the best way to explore canyons and ponds, and the occasional waterfalls and subterranean galleries. Or you might prefer hydrospeed, an exciting descent down wild waters on a board that you can do in localities like Campo, near Biescas.

A bird's-eye view of Huesca

As you can see, there is a lot to do in this area, both on earth and in water. But let's talk about air. The alternatives include a large range of activities, such as paragliding, parachuting, gliding, and hot air ballooning. They are perfect for enjoying breathtaking views from the sky. You can enjoy this experience in Santa Cilia, Jaca, thanks to its airfield and the astonishing landscape between the Pyrenees and Parque Nacional de San Juan de la Peña y Monte Oroel. Castejón de Sos in Benasque Valley is a great choice as well, where paragliding is extremely popular.

But if you’re seeking even more adrenaline, you should try bungee jumping and enjoy the landscapes of one of the most beautiful towns in the area, Hoya de Huesca, even if it’s just for a moment. Bungee jumping is also available in Ayerbe and the Gállego River, on the frontier with Zaragoza.

Almost unlimited possibilities

More adventure awaits in Huesca. This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning snow sports. Besides every skiing modality, plenty of new experiences have appeared in the Pyrenean area of Aragón. Ice karting is a singular type of karting performed on an iced circuit. You can do it in the Formigal area. Paintball on the snow, building an igloo, and sliding down a snow circuit on a snow tube or tubing are great plans too.

Huesca offers more fun and exciting activities, like adventure parks, which are venues where you will find a large variety of the favourite activities among adrenaline lovers. They are scattered throughout the western region of the Pyrenees; the zip-lines of Bosque de Oza and the specialised parks of Biescas and Ordesa are just a few of them. To the south, in Sodeto, you can practice paintball and your orientation skills. With this large number of possible adventures, you will find the one for you, whether you prefer a quiet evening riding a horse or the risk of more extreme experiences. You will find all of this and much more in Huesca. After all, it was declared Europe's leading adventure tourism destination!

One of the options for the more adventurous can be a surfing trip. Spain, with its more than 7,500 kilometers of coastline, has hundreds of beaches where you can enjoy this increasingly popular activity.

And no wonder why. One of the beaches in the Basque Country has hosted the world surfing circuit nine times. And even in Murcia there are schools that teach this sport. In Madrid there is also a place where you can surf. There is a wide range on offer.

El Palmar beach, Cádiz

Although the south of Spain is not the best area in the country for surfing, if you like to travel to this area, this is a good beach to start your journey. 11 kilometres from the town of Vejer de la Frontera, the wide beach of El Palmar runs parallel, almost joining the municipality of Conil de la Frontera with the cape Trafalgar.

This place, which has lagged behind tourist development, lacks large buildings and infrastructures for now. In fact, this is the reason why many choose to spend their holidays here: what better way to add a touch of excitement and newness to a peaceful stay?

Rihuete beach, Murcia

At Rihuete beach, at a ten-minute drive from the town of Mazarrón, it is also possible to surf. Again, in this case, it can also be an activity to accompany a relaxing getaway. The Bahía Surf school offers classes, as well as the possibility of signing up for trips to other communities.

Las Américas beach, Tenerife

The Canary Islands, as well as having a great weather, amazing gastronomy and exceptional landscapes, is one of the best areas in Spain, and even Europe, for surfing. Whether you are a beginner or already have the board under control. The islands of Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and La Graciosa are suitable for learning.

In Tenerife there are many beaches where you can enjoy this sport all year round. One of them, considered one of the best, is Las Américas beach. Located in the southwest of the island, it is home to the left wave of Las Palmeras, the most outstanding on the island.

Las Canteras beach, Gran Canaria

Tenerife's neighbour, Gran Canaria, also offers a wide range of surfing for all levels. Las Canteras beach stands out for having one of the best right-hand waves on the island.

This surfing enclave is located in the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria itself. Frequented by tourists all year round, it is one of the most important beaches in the area.

Laitdatxu beach, Basque Country

Where surfing has undoubtedly become a way of life for many is in the north of the peninsula. Many lovers of this sport look to Cantabria, the Basque Country, Asturias and Galicia for waves to tame, while enjoying beautiful natural enclaves. It is also fun to follow the wave forecasts and travel from one beach to another in search of the best.

On the left bank of the mouth of the Mundaka estuary, in the north of Bizkaia, hides the municipality of Mundaka. Inherited its name from a 15th century legend, this location is home to a world-famous wave on its Laitdaxu beach. This is its left wave, one of the best in Europe. It can reach four meters and up to 400 metres along a route that runs from the Mundaka bar to Laida beach. We are talking about a destination frequented by great surfers and which has hosted the world championship of this discipline on 9 occasions. Despite the difficulty and beauty of its famous wave, Laitdatxu also allows you to learn how to surf in its waters.

Santa Marina beach, Asturias

A pretty fishing village, surrounded by sea and greenery, fed by cider and cachopos and flooded with hundreds of surfers every day. In Ribadesella, there is never a shortage of riders in the water. Especially at weekends and during the summer, the beach of San Marina is crowded with children and young people eager to learn the sport. Meanwhile, the more experienced surfers seek out their own waves. With a long surfing tradition, the beach of Ribadesella is sheltered from all winds, only at the mercy of the north wind.

Somo beach, Cantabria

In Cantabria there are also dozens of beaches perfect for surfers. Langre, Liencres, Loredo, San Vicente de la Barquera, Berria... There is plenty to choose from. But, without a doubt, one of the favourite spots in the region for taking to the sea is in the village of Somo. For many fans of this activity, it is the place to start.

Located at the entrance to the Bay of Santander, it is the best known village in Ribamontán al Mar. Its beach is two kilometres long and has strong waves. The Cantabrian capital can be seen directly opposite.

Pantín Beach, A Coruña

Galicia, although perhaps less famous than its northern neighbours as far as surfing is concerned, also has several beaches where this activity can be practised. The beaches of Areamaior or Bastiaguiero can work very well for beginners. Razo, San Román, Patos, Lanzada... can also be another option. However, Pantín beach, located in the municipality of Valdoviño, stands out.

With strong waves and a tenacious wind, Pantín is home to the famous Pantín-Classic event. Included in the World Surf League, this 2021 event will be held between 16 June and 4 July.

Surfing in Madrid

Yes, it is possible. Faced with the lack of waves in the capital, they have invented them. Citywave Madrid is a wave pool located in the Madrid X shopping center in Alcorcón. It opened a year ago and can be a form of training for people who cannot travel regularly to the sea. It can also be a good option for those who have more than just respect for the ocean. While it is not the same as being at sea, it is a different activity in which to continue learning.

One of these activities, which has gone viral due to the fame of the descent of the Sella River, is rafting. However, the Sella river is not the only place where this sport is practiced. Spain has a multitude of whitewater rivers, with channels that can be an ideal plan to spend with the family without any danger, to torrents only accessible to experts. The incursions, however, should always be done with the help of a guide, especially if you are a beginner.

These are five of the best Spanish rivers for rafting: the other descents of the Sella.

Getting started on the Genil river

In the heights of the Sierra Nevada mountains of Granada, the Genil River is born, which holds the positions of the second longest river in Andalusia and the seventh longest in the Iberian Peninsula. Through its 358 kilometers it is common to practice rafting, although it is also common to descend it by other means, such as kayaking or canoeing.

The Genil River, which crosses the provinces of Granada, Córdoba, Málaga and Seville, is a perfect option to get started in the adventure of rafting. In some stretches, children over six years of age are even allowed to go up the river. The most famous stretch is the one between Benamejí and Palenciana. It allows to enjoy small doses of adrenaline under total security.

Sighting otters in the Alto del Guadalquivir

The Genil river is, in turn, a tributary of the Guadalquivir river. The latter rises in the Sierra of Cazorla, in Jaén, and flows through the provinces of Córdoba, Seville and Cádiz, until it flows into Sanlucar de Barrameda. The river course overtakes the Genil in position and is the fifth longest in the country, with more than 600 kilometers in length.

However, it is the upper zone, known as Alto del Guadalquivir, where the conditions allow the practice of rafting. Between June and August the stretch of the river that runs through Jaén is perfect for beginners in the sport in a place of great scenic and environmental importance. In fact, in this section it is possible to see otters, kingfishers or even specimens of European pond turtles.

Turquoise waters in the Cabriel river gorges

Much calmer is the navigable area of the Cabriel River, the main tributary of the Júcar River that runs through the territories of Teruel, Albacete, Cuenca and Valencia. With a length of 220 kilometers, the Cabriel rises in the Albarracín mountain range and stands out for the cleanliness of its waters, which at some points become turquoise. This is due to the fact that in most of its course the action of human beings does not interfere.

Rafting in the waters of the Cabriel River is suitable for all audiences, since it does not present great difficulty nor does it become boring. The little ones can also take part in the activity of rivers' descents. The tour can be carried out in different sections of the river, although two stand out. In the first place, the area of the Chorreras, in which the beauty of the surroundings stands out and which is located in Cuenca. However, the most frequented stretch is that of Tamayo, on the Valencian side, which is about six kilometers long.

Griffon vultures in the gorges of the Duratón river

Born in Madrid, the Duratón River spreads from the Guadarrama mountain range until it flows into the left bank of the Duero River, of which it is a tributary. In its journey, the river passes through the town of Duratón, to which it gives its name, and crosses the provinces of Segovia and Valladolid, as well as Madrid. Its route reaches 106 kilometers and acquires its maximum splendor in the Duratón gorges.

This river offers a large number of excursions along its 25 kilometers, which are not very difficult and can be covered in three and a half hours. In addition, in this enclave is the largest European reserve of griffon vulture, as well as you can enjoy the ruins of the monastery of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles de la Hoz or the hermitage of San Frutos.

The descent of the Gállego river

Further north, in the community of Aragón, the Gállego river is one of the most famous for rafting practitioners. This torrent is born in Formigal and flows into the province of Zaragoza, after more than 190 kilometers. It is one of the main tributaries of the Ebro.

In the Gállego river, the eight-kilometer stretch that ends in Santa Eulalia is suitable for beginners; however, the best known stretch is the one that runs between the municipality of Carcavilla and the beaches of Murillo de Gállego. In this section the level of the descent becomes more complicated and it is necessary to have a certain level, however the increase of the level is accompanied by an impressive landscape. Amazing rivers to enjoy sport and nature in Spain.

Sierra de Guadarrama has many other tourist attractions, and some of them are human-made, like the monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the monastery of Santa María de El Paular, the Royal Palace of La Granja, or the castle of Manzanares el Real. It makes sense that such a large area with so many interesting things to visit has several hiking routes. These are three lovely routes to explore the mountains of Sierra de Guadarrama in Madrid. 

Three routes to explore the mountains of Sierra de Guadarrama

The ascent to Peñalara

As we said before, Peñalara is one of the most remarkable peaks in the mountain range of Guadarrama, and it lies in the Community of Madrid. Hence, our first route had to lead us there. One of the main aspects that make Peñalara such a unique peak is its cirque glacier, one of the most important and best-preserved ones in Guadarrama. This area spreads from the mountain pass of Los Cotos to the saddle of Camino Nevero, its highest point being the peak of Peñalara, which stands next to four other peaks.  

This mountain peak reaches a height of 2428 metres, and it marks the end of a trail that starts at the Centro de Visitantes de Peñalara, next to the mountain pass of Los Cotos. The trail going up to the peak spreads for 5 kilometres, with 600 vertical metres, which might be quite challenging for those who are not used to hiking. Besides, if you plan to go in winter, you should take into account that snow and ice might pose an extra challenge, and the adventure can even become dangerous if you are not an experienced hiker. Thus, we recommend doing it any other time of the year. 

There are two other routes that share the same starting point, but end in different places. One of them is easy and accessible for everyone, and it ends in the lake called Grande, right in the cirque glacier of Peñalara. The other one will take us to the lake of Los Pájaros, and it is similar to the main route in terms of difficulty. 

The route of Cancho de los Muertos

The second route of Sierra de Guadarrama takes us to another popular spot in the mountain range: La Pedriza. It is a granitic range, and a geological feature of great value that lies at the most challenging climbing area in the world. 

The trail of Cancho de los Muertos departs from the car park of Cantocochino, facing a wooden bridge that crosses over the river Manzanares. The trail goes on until it reaches the crossing of the saddle known as Cabrón. Only a few metres to the right, the traveller will be able to see the granitic range behind the name of the route: Cancho de los Muertos. They say that the bandits known as Pesetas executed their victims here during the 19th century, and hence the name, which could be translated as “Crag of the Death”. 

After we leave Cancho de los Muertos Behind, back at the saddle of Cabrón, we will take a path to the right which will take us to the starting point: the car park of Cantocochino. This 5,6-metre circular route can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter your age, and it lasts for about two and a half hours. Manzanares El Real is only 15 minutes away by car, and it is perfect for ending up this lovely visit. 

The route of Cuerda Larga

The third route we suggest to explore the mountains of Guadarrama is the hardest one regarding its length, logistics, lack of signalisation and the difficult terrain. We are talking about the route of Cuerda Larga, an emblematic trail that not so many people have enjoyed due to the elements we just discussed. 

This trail departs from the mountain pass of Navacerrada and it spreads until the pass of La Morcuera. It goes along some of the highest peaks of the Community of Madrid, crossing a rocky, uneven land, always at an altitude of 2000 metres. 

The route spreads for about 20 kilometres, and these are the peaks it lets us admire: Bola del Mundo, Cerro de Valdemartín, Cabeza de Hierro Menor, and Cabeza de Hierro Mayor. The latter is the highest peak of the route and the second highest in Guadarrama. The route goes on until it reaches the hill of Pandasco, but we still have four peaks left to see: Navahondilla, Asómate de Hoyos, Bailanderos and La Najarra. 

Those who have finished the route of Cuerda Larga assure that the effort is totally worth it, mostly thanks to the amazing panoramic views of the mountain range we can enjoy there. An average hiker can complete it in approximately nine hours, although the presence of snow might slow things down. In fact, we do not suggest choosing this route in winter if you do not have much hiking experience or own the right materials for the task, such as crampons. We should also go prepared in summer, with a good supply of water and sun cream, since there is almost nothing to protect us from the sun in Cuerda Larga. 

We should also bear in mind that it is a long linear route. A way of addressing this could be by parking a car at the departing point and another one at the ending point of the route, or asking someone to come and pick us up once we finish. Another option is to split the route in two and spend the night on the mountains, sleeping out in the open. It is always possible not to finish the route and head back at any point we like. No matter how we do it, the route of Cuerda Larga provides a great opportunity to enjoy the natural landscape of the Community of Madrid, as well as a fascinating adventure we will never forget.  

Frente del Agua: a route for the entire family

The route departs from the interpretation center of Paredes de Buitrago, a former wash house. It traces a five-mile circle of forest tracks, pine forests and woodlands. Its paths are perfectly signaled with information panels and signs claiming “en busca de agua”; that is, “in search of water”. This is where the name of the route comes from, since water was a key element in this area during the Spanish Civil War. 

We will first enter the area of the Republican side, with its half-buried bunkers. There are 26 pieces of defensive architecture throughout the route, including trenches, machine gun nests, and shelters. This front was in constant tension during the Spanish Civil War, and every trace of it perfectly illustrates that. 

There are two main reasons why the route of Frente del Agua is perfect for the whole family. To start with, we have its low level of difficulty: apart from two moderate slopes, the route is fairly smooth. Secondly, we cannot forget its historical value, since the route of Frente del Agua provides a great way of teaching history to the younger family members, and thus avoid their repeating it, as they say.  

The history behind the route of Frente del Agua

The most interesting aspect of this area in Madrid might be its two reservoirs, which supplied fresh water to the capital during the Spanish Civil War. Both the reservoir of El Villar and Puentes Viejas were key locations when it came to the city’s resistance, hence the Republican side made sure to keep them safe. 

During the first days of the conflict, the Francoist troops, led by colonel García Escamez, took over the mountain pass of Somosierra, and they eventually reached Buitrago de Lozoya. They faced considerable resistance from the inhabitants of the town that were loyal to the Republic, and the Francoist troops were not able to advance. As a consequence, they had to change plans, and this challenge slowed down their victory over Madrid. 

The fronts were already defined by the end of August, and they remained almost the same for the entire conflict. It was at that time that they started building trenches, parapets and shelters. In the following months, they kept reinforcing the line of defense, which was considerably long, and thus any minor mistake could be fatal.   

Time has erased part of this chapter of Spain’s history, and yet it is still interesting to walk through the pine trees and the forests of this mountain range in the Community of Madrid, unveiling past wars that many seem to have forgotten. The information panels and guided tours let us explore the lives of the soldiers hiding up in the mountains, surrounded by both nature and battles. All in all, just as we said before, this is one of the most interesting routes in the Community of Madrid. 

Routes in the Aragonese Pyrenees

Route to the Anayet

The mountain of Anayet lies to the north of Aragon, near the Spanish-French border. This route spreads for 17 kilometres, and it has more than 1000 vertical metres. It should take about five and a half hours to finish.

This route departs from the Formigal-Panticosa Ski Resort. During the first kilometres, one can see the peak of Culivillas and some small waterfalls. The path will take us to the top of the Anayet, which stands out for being sharp and red. The views from the top, at a height of 2545 metres, are simply spectacular.

Route of Aguas Tuertas

The route of Aguas Tuertas goes on for 16 kilometres, lasting approximately four hours. It spreads along the river Aragón Subordán, which twists forming meanders. This route is called after the glacial valley of Aguas Tuertas.

When it comes to its level of difficulty, this route is almost for all audiences. The only section that might pose a challenge here is the slope at the end of the route. As a matter of fact, the route of Aguas Tuertas ends up next to the Ibón de Estanés, a lake at an altitude of 1900 metres. It is definitely one of the best hiking routes to explore the Pyrenees in all its richness.

The catwalks of the Vero river

In the province of Huesca, we will find one of the most original hiking routes in the Pyrenees: the catwalks of the Vero river. This route is about four kilometres long, of medium difficulty, and it takes approximately four hours to complete. Nevertheless, its most peculiar aspect is the fact that most of the route is made of catwalks that go along the Vero river. Likewise, there are beautiful waterfalls in some sections, making this route even more special.

The route of Cola de Caballo

The Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park is one of the most magical places in the Pyrenees, hence it had to be on this list. Indeed, the route of Cola de Caballo displays one of the best views of the valley of Ordesa. Besides, the route passes by some of the most emblematic spots in the valley, like the prairie of Ordesa, the Camino de los Cazadores, the Circo de Cotatuero or the waterfall of Cola de Caballo, the source behind the name of the route. The total length of the route is 20 kilometres; hence it is suggested to have basic physical conditions before embarking on it.

The canyon of Añisclo

The Aragonese Pyrenees also provide a short, easy-going route that allows us to admire one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Spain: the canyon of Añisclo. First, we will have to cross the medieval bridge of San Úrbez from Escalona. Then, we will walk along the gorge until we reach the chapel of San Úrbez, which is carved in the rock. Lastly, we will descend to the Aso river, where we will find a mill.

Routes in the Navarrese Pyrenees

The route of the caves of Zugarramurdi

For those who are not used to playing sports or they travel with kids, the route of the caves of Zugarramurdi will be a perfect choice. These caves are located in the north of Navarre, and legend has it that, centuries ago, witches gathered there to perform magic and rituals.

We can get to the caves through a short, smooth circular route, a great way of admiring the forests of the comarca of Baztan. Once there, the caves themselves are definitely worth visiting. This is, without the shadow of a doubt, a great hiking route for all ages.

The route of the reservoir of Irabia

Still in Navarre, we can check out one of the routes through the Irati Forest. This area stands out for exhibiting a mix of beech, birch, hollies and yew, and it looks particularly beautiful in autumn. Among the many hiking routes we can find there, the one heading to the reservoir of Irabia is always a good option. It is a 10-kilometre route with little slope, so it has a low difficulty. One can see the reservoir of Irabia throughout the whole route, as well as a series of peculiar-shaped beech and fir. Besides, this route is circular too, thus it ends exactly where it started.

Routes in the Catalan Pyrenees

Route of the 7 lakes

The name of the route of the 7 lakes refers to the lakes of Circo de Colomers, which can be seen from these paths in the valley of Boí, next to the valley of Aran in Lleida. In addition, we can choose either the short version, which takes about three or four hours to finish, or the long version, lasting seven or eight hours.

One of the bests spots to rest is the lake of Estany Plan, a wonderful place for laying down and enjoying the views. Indeed, the settings this route will amaze us with are really worth halting to admire them. Just like it happens in most of the hiking routes we will find in the Pyrenees, one can never decide whether to stop and look around or to keep walking.

A route for all ages in an unbelievable setting

The catwalks of the Vero river are located in the municipality of Alquézar, only 51 kilometres away from the city of Huesca. Moreover, the latter belongs to Somontano, a region in the autonomous community of Aragón that has lately become popular thanks to its excellent wine-making.

Coming back to the matter at hand, the catwalks of the Vero river will take us through a mountain route that is perfect for all ages, since it is only three kilometres long. It also has a 180-metres slope framed by the Sierra y Cañones de Guara Natural Park. The route will take us about an hour and a half—if we do not count the time we will inevitably spend admiring the landscape and taking pictures, of course.

A walk along the Vero river in four acts

This beautiful route is divided into four sections. However, the traveller should buy a ticket beforehand. We can do so near the square of Rafael Ayerbe, right next to Alquézar’s town hall. It costs four euros, a sum which will go to the preservation of the environment. After that, the traveller may depart and start walking through the first section, which begins in the square and goes through the old town until it reaches the actual path. We are guided at all times by a series of signals that are scattered through the village.

This is where the second section starts. It consists of a descent towards the Vero river, wherein we will cross the ravine of La Fuente. After that, the third step of the route spreads along the river bank, passing by interesting spots like the cave of Picamartillo, the old hydroelectric power station or the lookout of the Vero. Now there is only one section left, another descent through a somewhat steep walkway whose ending point takes us back to Alquézar, more specifically to the parking that lies next to the church of San Miguel.

This route really is perfect for families, but it is true that one should take into account the fact that some people might feel dizziness while going through the catwalks, although they rarely go high enough to produce such an effect. Nevertheless, they have thought of everything. When the walkways are between five and ten metres over the floor, there are alternative paths for the adventurers that are afraid of heights.

All the possibilities in Somontano

Before or after we pay a visit to the catwalks of the Vero river, the traveller might want to take a bite of the delights Alquézar has to offer. The church of San Miguel Arcángel or the shrines of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves, San Gregorio and San Antón are some interesting points to start with.

The main square we departed from, also known as the square of Mosén Rafael Ayerbe, provides an interesting view, just like the Gothic doorway, the gate to the village’s heart. The sculpture and lookout of Sonrisa del Viento—which means “the wind’s smile” in Spanish—is another must-see in Alquézar. We can enjoy a lovely view of the village and the last section of the Vero river’s canyon from there.

Likewise, the region of Somontano has many places of interest for tourists. Its vineyards and wineries specialized in Garnacha, a variety that is quite popular in Aragón, are presently some of the most popular ones. Nature lovers cannot miss a visit to the stunning waterfall of Bierge either. It is also compulsory to stop by at the capital: Barbastro. Its cathedral, the diocesan museum and the old town are some of the most remarkable spots there.

At the very heart of Asturias we find one of the most emblematic routes of the Principality. It’s suitable for both kids and adults, and it offers spectacular views and lovely trails that go across mountain slopes and green fields causing a unique feeling of comfort. We’re talking about the route of the Xanas, whose name comes from Asturian mythology. The Xanas, mythological creatures similar to nymphs, inhabit the crystal waters of the streams, and they bewitch men with their charms.

This route, which is also called “the little Cares”, spreads for about four kilometres, allowing us to unearth the deepest secrets of Asturias. It goes through an old mine, a gorge carved on the rock, and a beautiful forest made of chestnut trees, birches, and hazels. The route also unveils the stalactites of age-old caves, forged over time by the stream of the Xanas on its way to the gorge.

The route of the Xanas is right in the middle of Asturias, meandering between the councils of Santo Adriano, Quirós, and Proaza. In order to get there, we need to drive to the starting point of the route, approximately 30 kilometres away from Oviedo, the capital of the Principality. This won’t take us more than a 30 minutes’ car drive to the parking of Villanueva or Molín de las Xanas.

A route full of magical spots

This path was built at the beginning of the 20^th century with the aim of linking Pedroveya and Villanueva. For that purpose, they dug the future trail into the rock, although the original goal was to build a road. This project backfired due to the steepness of the gorge, but the path remained. The fact that it’s more or less four kilometres long makes it easier to come and go, and most people end the route at the point of departure.

After we climb about 400 metres from Villanueva’s parking, the route will take us through a series of rocky paths until we reach some great tunnels dug in natural rocks. We will walk across them and keep walking up the mountain. There awaits us a passageway embedded in the mountain, slightly more than a metre and a half wide, reigning over the landscape at a height of more than 100 metres. The scarce fertile soil in this area only lets us spot little bushes trying to survive surrounded by white limestone rock.

As we climb up, we’ll be able to see a stunning gorge of limestone rock to the right of the path, which turns increasingly narrower. There is a lanyard secured to the rock for those who wish to climb. The views in this section are particularly striking, and the sound of the stream, hidden by the tree tops, comes along with us throughout the route. The vegetation displays a rich palette of shades of green, the range of colours of Asturias. Sometimes, a layer of fog blends in with the landscape, creating a picture the traveller shall never forget.

Further on, approximately in the middle of the route, a forest awaits the adventurers to guide them into the purest of natures, a sea of chestnut trees and rocks covered by moss. On the right, we see a crystal-clear river open up: the lair of the Xanas. Dogs love this spot, and many of them jump into the fresh water while their owners make a stop and eat a sandwich.

After we cross the river, we will follow a wooden staircase that will help us climb to the last section of the route, until we reach the parish of Pedroveya. Nature provides a surprise in every corner, treating us with several unforgettable pictures. The church of San Antonio welcomes travellers when they finally reach this place. This is an unparalleled landscape in the mountain, with large fields where animals graze peacefully among cliffs. The route ends here for some, but it’s only a stop for the travellers who wish to enjoy the route of the Xanas even more.

There is no better feeling that the one you experience in the open, in the middle of the mountains, tasting nature, fresh air, birdsongs and the enchanting sound of water peacefully flowing through the land. This feeling connects us to the earth and gently reminds us how small we are compared to the vastness of nature.

Exploring the surroundings: nature and an industrial heritage

After this long walk, it would be nice to rest a little, either by laying on the rest area next to the shrine, or by getting a taste of Asturian gastronomy, always providing abundant quality food. The parish of Pedroveya is only half an hour away, and we can recover in Casa Genoveva. There is nothing like a good fabada or a pote (a mix of vegetables, faba beans, and compango meat). We may round off the menu by ordering a nice arroz con leche.

Even though the route of the Xanas mainly stands out for its natural landscapes, this area in Asturias also has other hiking paths, like the Bear Path. Besides, the valley of Turbia has a remarkable industrial heritage that has been there for more than 200 years. For instance, the first school of professional training for workers in Spain was founded there. Apart from the manufacturing buildings, they made an actual town with a casino, canteens, and bars for workers.

Another relevant place regarding the industrial heritage is the hydroelectric power station of Proaza, designed by Joaquín Vaquero Palacios. There, engineering and modern architecture meet to create a true architectural and artistic wonder mixing concrete, art, and wall paintings with geometrical patterns. As we have seen, the route of the Xanas is a great plan for a getaway. Now all there is left is to enjoy it!

Canyoning, an extreme sport

Fundamentally, canyoning is an activity that consists of swimming through river and canyon sections, jumping over waterfalls, sliding down natural slides or exploring underground flooded galleries. The mountains of Huesca are crossed by rivers that, year after year, collect the melt water. Besides, at the height of their flow, they run through the valleys and mountains of the province, carving out the wonderful canyons in the rocks that are the main setting for this nature sport. Canyoning allows you to discover natural spots which otherwise would remain practically inaccessible.

The most popular area to do this sport is Guara mountain range. Although it is only about 50 square kilometres in size, there are nearly 200 different canyons in this natural area, the biggest canyon area in Europe. Visitors could find beginner level canyons, such as Barrasil or Mascún Inferior, as well as a higher-level spots, such as Formiga, Vero, Gorgas Negras, Mascún Superior and Portiacho. The centre of this area is the village Alquézar, where it is possible to contact with different canyoning companies.

In the northern area, there are also many different places that are perfect to do canyoning. Near the  and some towns such as Torla, Escalona or Broto, the Ara and Cinca rivers have been responsible for carving with their waters an abrupt space in which there are some canyons of special interest such as Escuain, Las Gloces, Viandico, Miraval or Furco.

Last but not least, in the eastern region of the Aragonese Pyreness has another fascinating spot for canyoning in the Banasque Valley, thanks to the meltwater from the peaks of over 3,000 metres in the Posets Maladeta Natural Park. The most famous canyons are Liri, Rinero and Literola.

To sum up, the province of Huesca is the perfect region for canyoning in Spain. It is a place where you will find a very high concentration of canyons that can be enjoyed from those who want to get started in this activity to those who want to perfect their technique.

Many European authorities are working to adapt their cities to this means of transport with the aim of making the world a less polluting place. In Spain, cities such as Madrid are a long way from achieving this goal, as their cycle lanes are right next to cars and therefore, they do not look like a safe place for citizens.

According to the OCU in its January 2022 report, "a useful cycling network must meet seven key conditions: it must be complete, continuous, uniform, direct, recognisable, dense and pass-through main roads". They also claimed that there are only five cities in Spain that meet these criteria: Vitoria, Valencia, Seville, Barcelona and San Sebastian.

Vitoria

Vitoria would be on the top places through the different Spanish cities. The main reason for this is a bike network that reaches from the city centre to the outskirts of the city. This means that there are up to 100 kilometres of cycle lanes running through the streets of the metropolis, making it possible to find a bike lane within 300 metres no matter where you are. The only disadvantage is in the historic city centre, where bicycles have to share space with pedestrians and vehicles. However, for a stroll or for commuting to and from work, the capital of Alava is ideal for cycling.

Valencia

The cycling network in Valencia also allows you to get from the outskirts to the centre and connects all the neighbourhoods around the area. In fact, many tourists choose this means of transport when they visit the city. Moreover, Valencia is the Spanish city, together with Seville, which has the most rental points per inhabitant. The adaptation of the city to make exclusive bike lanes, as well as its good signage and design, make the capital of the community a perfect destination for cyclists.

Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the capitals with more bicycles per inhabitant: 38 for every 10,000 inhabitants. This city could be seemed in a similar level with other European cities. The secret of Barcelona is the same as in the previous cases: a network that connects almost the entire city with each other and with wide and safe paths. Thanks to the flatness of the city makes this pleasant city a perfect destination to visit by this means of transport.

Seville

The bicycle network of Seville has 140 kilometers with many rental points as in Valencia. For that reason, regarding to OCU, Seville is one of the best of the south of Spain, much better than the Córdoba or Málaga bike lanes. Furthermore, several paths have been adapted to the Guadalquivir riverbanks. However, during the summer months... Be careful not to go out at very high temperatures!

San Sebastián

Although in recent years San Sebastián has experienced a standstill in terms of its cycling network, it is still one of the cities in Spain with the best network. According to the OCU, the city has 32 kilometres of lanes in good condition, which also passes through beautiful landscapes.

Gipuzkoa offers a wide variety of active tourism activities thanks to its unique landscape which combines sea and mountain. In Gipuzkoa you can practice various sports, leisure and adventure activities.

Along the coastal hike of Guipuzcoa you will enjoy fascinating landscapes as the flysch route between the municipalities of Zumaia and Deba (where a chapter of the TV series Game of Thrones was filmed), as well as marinas and fishing ports like Hondarribia, Pasajes of San Juan, San Sebastian, Orio, Getaria, Zumaia or Mutriku. There you can find diving schools; consider taking sailing courses or renting cruise and fishing boats. A good idea is trying a boat ride along the coast, especially from San Sebastián and Zumaia, where some of the best beaches of northern Spain are located. You can also take surf and paddle surf lessons in the schools of Zarautz, San Sebastián and Zumaia. In the estuaries, there are rowing schools, both in traditional trawlers and modern boats. If you are a jet-ski fan, there is also the possibility to rent one.

The active tourism in Gipuzkoa is much interior-oriented. Trekking is one of the main hobbies of the local population, usually stopping to have lunch in the agroturismos (local denomination of the Rural Houses) and tabernas. From the North Way to Santiago and from other trails and paths many practice cycling and horse riding; the natural park of Pagoeta is the perfect destination. Other extreme sports you can enjoy in Gipuzkoa are climbing or cannoning; these sports can also be practiced in the mountainous areas of the south of the province, around the parks of Aralar and Aizkorri-Aratz. From some heights like Mount Itzarraitz, Jaizkibel or the park of Peñas de Aya there are those who go paragliding or hang gliding.

The traditional and native sports remain really popular in the villages especially during festivities and in summer. With other populations of the Cantabrian Sea many coastal villages organize rowing-boat regattas during fishing and the races consist in returning to the port to leave the catch. Another deeply rooted sport is the Basque Ball (pelota vasca). It is said that Paul Newman was quite an expert. There are pediments in all towns and in some of them races between professionals are celebrated. However, the most popular are undoubtedly the herri kirolak (village sports) that have their origin in agriculture activities converted in sports for example the competition among neighbors to see who had greater skill, as is the case of aizkolaris (trunk cutters) and stone lifters ...

Below we give you more information about active tourism companies in Gipuzkoa by municipality or natural area, as well as all activities offered:

Search by Municipality

ARRASATE – MONDRAGÓN

DEBA

ARRASATE – MONDRAGÓN

DONOSTIA – SAN SEBASTIÁN

GETARIA

HONDARRIBIA – FUENTERRABÍA

IRÚN

LEGAZPI

MUTRIKU

PASAIA DONIBANE – PASAJES DE SAN JUAN

TOLOSA

ZARAUTZ

ZESTOA

ZUMAIA

Search by Natural Park

ARALAR

PAGOETA

PEÑAS DE AYA

RASA MAREAL AND FLYSCH CLIFFS