Ordesa Canyon

[Stewart Fishburne]

I have just read an article (in a series entitled "Incredible Journeys" in the Observer newspaper) about the Ordesa Canyon in the Spanish Pyrenees, and want to go there! It sounds and looks (on the picture with the article) absolutely magical.

 

But getting to it seems quite an adventure in itself. The writer of the article stayed in a campsite in Torla which I have just about managed to find on a map, just on the Spanish side of the mountains. But the nearest town of any size seems to be Lourdes in France and I have no idea where the nearest Airport and hire cars might be located.

 

Has anyone been to that part of the Pyrenees? Or even walked the canyon? Or is there anyone who can advise the simplest way to get there? I'm starting from the UK, so it will have to be a flight and hire car (probable) or the ferry in to Bilbao (possible) or drive all the way through France (surely not?)

 

Stewart

 

 

[Mac]

Hello Stewart

You'll find a lot of info about the Ordesa Canyon, including how to
get there, here:

http://www.sheldrakepress.demon.co.uk/Live/nav/travel/ws/wsch0106.html

You've aroused my interest now, although I doubt I'll have time to go
that far along from the Picos de Europa, where I hope to be next
month. Apparently the Canyon is a very popular climbing area, so
don't expect to have it to yourself. I've seen it mentioned in a well-
known (and rather scurrilous) Scottish climbing magazine.

Mac

[Stewart Fishburne]

Thanks, Mac

I'm getting more into the idea of a visit every piece of research I uncover.
I (re)discovered an old Rough Guide to the Pyrenees I forgot that I had
which gives details, but they must be out of date.

It looks like the easiest way to fly would be to Biarritz/Bayonne and drive
from there. And combine some coastal activities with some in the mountains.
Which might go down well 'at home'.

Have fun in the Picos. We were there a few years ago for a few days and
really enjoyed the area.

Stewart