Escalona, Huesca: What to see, do, visit, and eat in this village in the Aragonese Pyrenees.

Escalona is a picturesque village located in the Sobrarbe region, in the province of Huesca, Aragon in Spain. This town has a rich history that dates back to Roman and medieval times, preserving numerous traces of its past in its architecture and cultural heritage. Its privileged location at the gateway to the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park makes it an ideal starting point for exploring this stunning mountainous region.

Recommended cultural visits in Escalona, Huesca

San Martín Church (Iglesia de San Martín)

The San Martín Church, called in Spanish "Iglesia de San Martín" is the main religious monument in Escalona and an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture in the region. Built in the 12th century, the church features a beautiful semicircular apse and a slender bell tower.

Main Square and Old Town

The old town of Escalona revolves around the Main Square, a space surrounded by historic buildings and houses with wooden balconies. Strolling through its narrow cobbled streets is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this Pyrenean town.

Escalona Viewpoint

The Escalona Viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the Cinca River valley and the surrounding mountains. It is a perfect spot for taking photographs and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Traditional Architecture and Heritage

Escalona preserves numerous examples of typical Pyrenean architecture, with stone facades, slate roofs, and wooden balconies. Some notable examples include the Town Hall and several manor houses. Don’t forget to visit the Romanesque Bridge over the Cinca River, a medieval construction that is still in use today.

Outdoor Tourism

Hiking and Mountain Trails

Escalona is the perfect starting point for exploring the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, a paradise for hiking and mountain enthusiasts. There are numerous trails of varying difficulty levels that allow you to discover spectacular landscapes, such as the Ordesa Valley, the Faja de Pelay, and the Cola de Caballo waterfall.

Flora and Fauna

The park is home to a rich biodiversity, including endemic and protected species such as the bearded vulture, capercaillie, and brown bear. The flora is equally diverse, with beech, fir, and pine forests, as well as alpine meadows filled with wildflowers in spring and summer.

Activities and Adventure Sports

In addition to hiking, the natural environment of Escalona and its surroundings offer numerous opportunities for adventure sports such as mountain biking, rock climbing, canyoning, rafting, and cross-country skiing in winter.

Local Cuisine

Traditional Dishes

The cuisine of Escalona and the Sobrarbe region is based on local products and traditional recipes. Some typical dishes include roast lamb (ternasco asado), migas a la aragonesa (fried bread crumbs), trout a la ribagorzana, and desserts such as casadielles and trenza de Almudévar (pastries).

Recommended Restaurants and Bars

In Escalona and its surroundings, you will find several restaurants and bars where you can taste the local cuisine. Some recommended options include Restaurante Casa Sidora, Mesón El Portal, and Bodega del Pirineo.

Festivals and Gastronomic Events

Throughout the year, various festivals and gastronomic events are celebrated in the Sobrarbe region, such as the Truffle Fair in Graus, the Pincho Week in Aínsa, and the Ternasco (roast lamb) Days in Barbastro.

Accommodation and Tourist Services

Hotels and Country Houses

Escalona offers a varied range of accommodations for all tastes and budgets, from hotels and guesthouses to country houses and tourist apartments. Some recommended options include Hotel Arnal, Casa Rural La Era, and Apartamentos Casa Modesto.

Campgrounds and Hostels

For those who prefer to stay in contact with nature, there are several campgrounds and hostels in the area, such as Camping Viu, Camping Añisclo, and Albergue de Belsierre.

Travel Agencies and Tourist Office

In Escalona and the nearby towns, you will find travel agencies and tourist offices that will provide you with information and assistance to organize your visit to the area. The Aínsa Tourist Office and the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park Visitor Center are two important points of reference.

Local Events and Festivals

San Martín Festival

The San Martín Festival is celebrated every year in November in honor of the patron saint of Escalona. During the festivities, various cultural activities take place, including concerts, exhibitions, sports competitions, and parades.

Craft and Local Products Fair

In the summer, Escalona hosts a craft and local products fair, where you can purchase and taste typical products from the region, such as cured meats, cheeses, honey, wine, and artisan pastries.

Other Celebrations and Cultural Events

Throughout the year, other festivities and cultural events are celebrated in Escalona and its surroundings, such as the Fiesta Mayor of Aínsa, the Medieval Days of Boltaña, and the Broto International Music Festival.

Nearby Excursions and Visits

Aínsa, the Medieval Town

Just 20 km from Escalona, you’ll find Aínsa, an impressive medieval town with a castle, a church, and a labyrinth of cobbled streets that exude the charm of bygone eras. Aínsa is a must-visit for those who want to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the Aragonese Pyrenees.

Añisclo Canyon (Cañón de Añisclo)

The Añisclo Canyon is another natural wonder located near Escalona. This spectacular gorge, carved by the Bellos River, offers hiking routes that allow you to enjoy waterfalls, pools, and vertical cliffs towering up to 1,000 meters in height.

Sierra and Canyons of Guara Natural Park

Located about 50 km south of Escalona, you will find the Sierra and Canyons of Guara Natural Park, a paradise for canyoning and hiking enthusiasts, with routes such as Barranco de la Mascún and Salto de Roldán.

Pineta Valley and Bielsa (Valle Pineta y Bielsa)

The Pineta Valley and the town of Bielsa, located to the east of Escalona, offer spectacular landscapes and outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting. Don’t miss the visit to the Parador de Bielsa, located in a former monastery, and the glacier on the north face of Monte Perdido.

Practical tips to enjoy Escalona

Best time to visit

While Escalona can be visited throughout the year, spring and autumn are the best seasons to enjoy pleasant weather and the natural beauty of the Pyrenees in all its splendor. Summer is ideal for water activities, while winter offers opportunities for snow and winter sports.

Transportation and Mobility in the Area

Public transportation in Escalona and its surroundings is limited, so it is recommended to have your own vehicle or rent one to explore the area with greater convenience and flexibility. It is also possible to get around by bicycle or on foot, especially for cycling enthusiasts and hikers.

Safety and Precautions

Escalona and the Sobrarbe region are safe and peaceful areas, but it is always important to take basic safety and health precautions. If you plan to engage in mountain activities, make sure to have the appropriate equipment, inform yourself about weather conditions, and, if necessary, hire the services of a professional guide.

How to Get to Escalona in Huesca

Escalona is located 106 km north of Huesca and 120 km from Zaragoza. To reach the village, you can take the A-138 road from Huesca, which crosses the Aragonese Pyrenees, passing through towns such as Aínsa and Boltaña. From Zaragoza, you can take the A-23 and then the N-260 to Escalona. There are also bus services from Huesca and Zaragoza to the Sobrarbe region.

Escalona, a Perfect Destination to Enjoy the Aragonese Pyrenees

Escalona is an ideal destination for those who want to discover the charm of the Aragonese Pyrenees and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, historical heritage, and local gastronomy. From its picturesque cobbled streets to the stunning mountains of the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, Escalona will captivate you with its beauty and hospitality.