A journey from west to east through Aragon & Catalonia
Imagine towering mountains with peaks reaching over 3,000 meters (nearly 10,000 feet), full of hiking trails weaving through natural parks, and villages that possess an ethereal charm. It all sounds enchanting, doesn’t it? The Pyrenees, a region shared by Spain and France, beckons as a year-round destination. But which towns are the most beautiful in this stunning mountain range?
The Pyrenees stand as a natural country border and boast stunning valleys & enchanting villages full of architecture that blends harmoniously with the surrounding nature. Embarking on a journey through the Pyrenees is an essential experience for all avid travelers & nature lovers.
If you’ve always wanted to plan a trip to the Pyrenees but find yourself uncertain about where to go, fear not. Here at Civitatis, we have meticulously crafted a list of the ten most charming mountain villages in the Spanish Pyrenees. So join us as we travel through the Aragonese and Catalan territories in search of these beautiful towns.
Anso, a picturesque border town
Our journey begins in the western part of the Aragonese Pyrenees, specifically in the village of Anso. This picturesque village is nestled on the border between Aragon and Navarra and surrounded by the natural splendor of the Western Valleys Natural Park and the Protected Landscape of Foces de Fago and Biníes. When arrive in Anso, the awe-inspiring scenery that envelops the town will immediately catch your attention. However, you can’t overlook its remarkable architectural and cultural heritage as well.
Panticosa, Europe’s oldest thermal baths
It would be unjust to talk about villages in Northern Spain without mentioning Panticosa & its renowned thermal pools. This town is nestled amidst some of the most towering peaks in the Pyrenees. However, it’s most famous for its historic thermal spa, which stands as one of the oldest in Europe. Moreover, this town proudly boasts a fascinating history, made evident by the Roman coins belonging to Emperor Tiberius that were found here. If you want to explore this captivating destination, we recommend checking out the scenic high-mountain train ride.
Torla-Ordesa, in the true heart of the Pyrenees
Torla-Ordesa serves as the enchanting entrance to the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park and is an essential stop on any journey through the Aragonese Pyrenees. Regarded as one of Spain’s most stunning villages, Torla-Ordesa invites leisurely strolls along its labyrinthine network of cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the chance to visit the esteemed San Salvador Church and admire the magnificent mansions dotted around town.
Ainsa, one of the most beautiful towns in northern Huesca
The town of Ainsa in Huesca is a true hidden gem in the Pyrenees. With its magnificent 11th-century castle, the awe-inspiring Santa María Church, the iconic Covered Cross of Ainsa, and a captivating old town adorned with grand houses, Ainsa effortlessly earns its place among the top ten most beautiful villages in the Pyrenees. On top of that, the breathtaking natural surroundings further enhance its allure. We recommend checking out this snowshoeing adventure in Ordesa and Monte Perdido to fully immerse yourself in this remarkable region.
Alquezar, an Arab fortress nestled in the Pyrenees
Concluding our exploration of the Aragonese Pyrenees, our journey takes us to Alquezar, situated in the picturesque Somontano region. This medieval village carries a wealth of legends, all the way back to its Arab heritage. Fascinatingly, it was Khalaf Ibn Rasid who oversaw its construction. To truly comprehend the essence of Alquezar, don’t miss out on the opportunity to admire the grandeur of the Collegiate Church of Santa María la Mayor—a fitting farewell before leaving Aragon for Catalonia!
Tahull and its Romanesque art
Our next destination brings us to the captivating Boí Valley, specifically Tahull (or Taüll). This charming little village in the Catalan Pyrenees holds significant importance within this valley. Here, you will find the remarkable Sant Climent Church, adorned with the stunning Pantocrator fresco—an artistic marvel dating back to the twelfth century. You’ll have a great time meandering through the streets of Tahull & taking in the charm of its traditional Pyrenean architecture.
Viella, a fairytale village
As the capital of the Aran Valley, Viella has a particularly interesting history, bearing witness to conquests, battles, and invasions throughout time. It has been inhabited by the likes of the Templars, Romans, and even Napoleon himself, the town’s allure is undeniable. Viella also boasts a fairy tale-like old town, gracefully divided by the meandering river Nere, offering a perfect setting for leisurely strolls. Additionally, its proximity to the Baqueira Beret ski area makes Viella an ideal choice for skiers. Undoubtedly, Viella stands as an essential stop on any journey through the Catalan Pyrenees!
Arties and the coexistence of its Romanesque & Gothic styles
Our exploration of the Aran Valley leads us to the enchanting village of Arties, a splendid showcase of the harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Greeting us with its commanding presence is the magnificent five-story Gothic tower of the Santa Maria de Arties church. Stepping inside, we are treated to the sight of several exquisite Baroque altarpieces dating back to the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. To complete your tour of this remarkable town, we highly recommend a visit to the Renaissance houses adorning the town center, adding a touch of grandeur to the overall experience.
Bagergue, the higest village in the Aran Valley
Though home to merely 100 inhabitants, Bagergue‘s charm remains fully intact. Its streets, squares, and houses proudly embody the essence of typical Aranese architecture, showcasing picturesque black slate roofs, as well as wooden windows and doors that have stood the test of time. Moreover, Bagergue is graced by the presence of the exquisite Sant Félix parish church, whose beauty will capture your heart forever.
Prulláns, perfect for hiking
Concluding our journey through most stunning villages in the Spanish Pyrenees, we’ll travel lastly to Prulláns, nestled within the captivating Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park. This quaint town provides an idyllic setting for a romantic couple’s getaway, with each street exuding its own unique charm. Prulláns is also famous for its breathtaking natural surroundings, offering a plethora of hiking trails to explore.
