The Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is, for many, the jewel of the Pyrenees: spectacular glacial valleys, canyons, cascading waterfalls and the imposing south face of Monte Perdido. It's a top-tier high-mountain destination, but with tightly regulated access, so it's worth planning well. Here's the guide for visiting it by motorhome.
What you'll see
- The Ordesa valley: the most famous, with the Cola de Caballo waterfall, the Senda de los Cazadores trail and the Gradas de Soaso (a spectacular chain of waterfalls).
- The Añisclo canyon, the Escuaín gorge and the Pineta valley: the other three, quieter entry points.
- Monte Perdido, the highest limestone massif in Europe.
Regulated access: the key point
In high season (summer and long weekends), vehicle access to the Ordesa meadow is restricted: you must leave your car/motorhome in Torla and take a shuttle bus up. You cannot drive the motorhome up to the meadow on those dates. Find out about the dates and the shuttle system before you go; it's the logistical downside of the park, but it protects the environment (see the Aragonese Pyrenees).
Where to stay overnight
Torla-Ordesa is the natural base (with a designated area and campsites), as are Aínsa, Escalona or Bielsa for the other entry points. Stay overnight nearby the evening before to catch the first shuttle and enjoy the valley without the crowds (see overnight areas).
Practical tips
- Late spring to autumn: autumn in Ordesa is spectacular.
- Get an early start for the first shuttle and to avoid queues.
- Mountain gear and respect for the national park's rules (maximum protection status).
- Cold nights at altitude; be prepared.
In summary
Ordesa and Monte Perdido is top-tier high mountain terrain in the Pyrenees, with tightly regulated access in high season. The step to take today: plan to sleep in Torla the night before, find out about the shuttle system (in summer you can't drive up to the meadow), and get an early start to catch the first one; that way you'll enjoy the valley at its best. Combine it with the Aragonese Pyrenees.