Bujaruelo Valley: Complete Guide to Explore Its Natural Treasures

Location: Bujaruelo Valley, Huesca

The Bujaruelo Valley is a beautiful and peaceful corner located in the province of Huesca, in the autonomous community of Aragon, Spain. This valley is part of the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park and is surrounded by the majestic Pyrenees.

Brief history and description of the valley

For centuries, the Bujaruelo Valley has been a transit point for traders, shepherds, and travelers crossing the Pyrenees, and its impressive beauty and biological diversity make it a preferred destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Spanning 20 km from the Puente de los Navarros to the Collado de los Mulos, this valley holds numerous distinctions, such as being part of the Peripheral Protection Zone of the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA), Site of Community Importance (SCI), and the "Ordesa-Vignemale" Biosphere Reserve.
The Bujaruelo Valley is located next to the Ordesa Valley and is crossed by the Ara and Arazas rivers, which merge at the Puente de los Navarros and form the Ara River Valley, extending to the town of Ainsa. Both valleys, located within the municipality of Torla-Ordesa, offer a wide variety of mountain activities in the Central Pyrenees, including over 20 peaks above 3,000 meters, karstic landscapes, scenic trails, lush forests, waterfalls, and rivers. Moreover, the Bujaruelo Valley is of special significance as it serves as a link to the French town of Gavarnie, home to the impressive glacial cirque and Europe’s highest waterfall.

Hiking trails in the Bujaruelo Valley

Ara River Waterfall Trail

This easily accessible trail allows you to enjoy the spectacular waterfall formed by the Ara River as it crosses the valley. It is perfect for families and people of all ages.

Goriz Refuge Trail

The Goriz Refuge is one of the starting points for ascending Mount Perdido. This trail offers impressive views of the valley and its surrounding mountains. It is recommended for experienced hikers.

Horse’s Tail Trail

The Horse’s Tail is an impressive waterfall located in the heart of Ordesa National Park. This trail is of moderate difficulty and offers a unique experience in the midst of nature.

Bernatuara Lake Trail

Bernatuara Lake is a small glacial mountain lake. This trail, suitable for experienced hikers, allows you to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Pyrenean landscape.

Bujaruelo Valley Refuge

Services and Facilities

The Bujaruelo Valley Refuge offers accommodation, food, and basic services for hikers and visitors of the valley. It is an ideal place to rest after a day of exploration in the mountains.

How to get there and prices

The refuge is located a few kilometers from the town of Torla. It can be reached by car or through the hiking trails of the valley. Prices vary depending on the season and the required services. Single beds are available for sharing rooms or rooms with different numbers of beds according to the hikers’ needs, as well as a spacious camping area. A wide range of options to visit the Bujaruelo Valley.

Weather in the Bujaruelo Valley

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Bujaruelo Valley is during the spring, summer, and autumn months, when temperatures are warmer and the weather conditions are usually more favorable. However, the valley can also be visited in winter, although some routes may be closed or more challenging due to snow and ice.

Precautions and recommendations

It is important to check the weather forecast before visiting the Bujaruelo Valley and plan hiking routes according to the weather conditions. Additionally, it is recommended to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and carry enough water and food for the hikes.

Places of interest in the Bujaruelo Valley

Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park

Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park is a protected natural area that houses stunning landscapes and a great diversity of flora and fauna. The Bujaruelo Valley is one of the gems of this park, ideal for exploring its natural treasures.

Mirador de la Rolande

The Mirador de la Rolande offers a spectacular panoramic view of the valley and its surrounding mountains. It is a perfect spot to rest, take photographs, and enjoy the scenery.

Town of Torla

The picturesque town of Torla, located at the gateway to the Bujaruelo Valley, is a must-visit for those who want to experience the local architecture and culture. Its cobblestone streets, stone houses, and slate roofs make this place a charming starting point for exploring the region.

Restaurants and Accommodation in the Bujaruelo Valley

Restaurante Camping Valle de Bujaruelo

The Restaurante Camping Valle de Bujaruelo offers delicious homemade meals and typical regional dishes. It is a perfect place to enjoy the local cuisine in an unparalleled natural setting.

Other dining options

In addition to the camping restaurant, various bars and restaurants can be found in the town of Torla, offering traditional dishes and a wide variety of culinary options.

Camping Valle de Bujaruelo

The Camping Valle de Bujaruelo is an excellent choice for those who want to stay in the heart of nature and enjoy basic amenities. The camping site offers pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, as well as bungalows and services such as showers, toilets, and laundry facilities.

Hotels and Rural Houses in the Surroundings

In the surroundings of the Bujaruelo Valley and in the town of Torla, various hotels and rural houses can be found, offering comfortable and cozy accommodation for visitors.

Map and Guide of the Bujaruelo Valley

Detailed Map of Trails and Paths

A detailed map of the Bujaruelo Valley is essential for planning hiking routes and visiting the main points of interest. Maps can be obtained at local tourist offices or downloaded from the internet. These maps usually include information on distance, difficulty, and duration of the routes.

Points of Interest and Services

The map of the Bujaruelo Valley also includes information about the main points of interest, such as viewpoints, waterfalls, and lakes, as well as the location of services such as the refuge, camping site, and restaurants.

How to Get to the Bujaruelo Valley by Car

Routes from Major Cities

The Bujaruelo Valley is accessible by car from major cities in Spain and France. From Zaragoza, the fastest route is to take the A-23 and then the N-330 until reaching the town of Sabiñánigo. From there, take the N-260 towards Biescas and Torla. From Barcelona, you can take the A-2 and C-16 until reaching Puigcerdà, and then continue on the N-260 towards Torla.

Tips and Precautions for the Journey

It is important to note that mountain roads can be narrow and winding, so it is recommended to drive with caution and respect traffic signs. Additionally, during winter, some roads may be closed or require the use of snow chains.

The Importance of Preserving the Natural Environment of the Bujaruelo Valley

The Bujaruelo Valley is a natural treasure that we must preserve for future generations. It is important to respect the flora and fauna, follow the rules of the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, and practice sustainable and responsible tourism.

Planning Your Visit to the Bujaruelo Valley

Planning your visit to the Bujaruelo Valley in advance ensures an unforgettable experience in this beautiful corner of the Pyrenees. Familiarizing yourself with the hiking routes, points of interest, accommodation and dining options, and necessary precautions to enjoy the valley safely and responsibly is essential to make the most of this natural adventure.