The Sierra de Guara, in the heart of the Huesca Pre-Pyrenees, becomes a prime destination for hiking and adventure in summer. Its ravines cool the air, the pools invite you to dip your toes in the water, and the trails are full of contrasts. Despite the heat, summer is one of the best times to explore its trails, thanks to the abundance of water, the vibrancy of the landscape and the chance to combine nature, culture and swimming in unique settings.
Why visit Guara in summer?
Summer transforms the mountains into a mosaic of life and coolness. The long days mean you can set off early and avoid the midday heat, whilst many routes run alongside rivers and ravines, offering shade and the chance to bathe in natural pools of crystal-clear water. The surroundings are teeming with activity: birds of prey soar over the canyons, the vegetation gives off intense aromas and the villages open their doors to visitors. Furthermore, access controls in sensitive areas such as the Salto de Bierge ensure the conservation of the environment and a more peaceful experience.
Below, we take a look at five must-see routes, explaining what makes them particularly worth visiting in summer.
1. Pasarelas del Vero (Alquézar)
- Distance: 2.2 km
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Elevation gain: 230 m
This route, ideal for families, winds its way through the Vero River gorge via metal walkways suspended from the rock face. In summer, the coolness of the gorge and the proximity of the water make the walk particularly pleasant. The nearby Vero pools are perfect for a swim after the walk, and the viewing points offer the chance to spot rock-dwelling birds such as the griffon vulture in flight. The surroundings of Alquézar, with its cobbled streets and open-air terraces, round off the summer experience.
2. Real de Mascún: Rodellar – Otín
- Distance: 17.4 km
- Duration: 5–7 hours
- Elevation gain: 650 m
The Mascún Gorge is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Sierra de Guara, featuring karst formations, rock spires and caves. In summer, the Mascún and the River Alcanadre provide shaded areas and pools where you can cool off, and the atmosphere is particularly lively thanks to the presence of climbers and hikers. The route passes by springs and old villages such as Otín, offering the chance to stock up on supplies and rest in the shade of the riverside woods.
3. Route to the Arpán shelter (Colungo)
- Distance: 2.6 km
- Duration: 1 hour
- Elevation gain: 120 m
This easy, well-signposted route combines nature and culture. The path winds its way through holm oaks and fragrant scrub, and in summer the shade provided by the vegetation and the short distance make it ideal for escaping the intense heat. The destination is a rock shelter featuring World Heritage cave paintings, where the coolness of the rock and history go hand in hand.
4. Saint Martin of the Valley of Onsera
- Distance: 9.5 km
- Duration: 5 hours
- Elevation gain: 600 m
Considered one of the most mystical routes in Guara, it leads to a chapel nestled between canyons. The path alternates between shaded sections, stretches alongside streams and areas of complete silence, which in summer offers a chance to unwind and enjoy the natural coolness. The spring water near the chapel allows you to cool off and recharge your batteries before heading back.
5. The Stone Villages Trail (Las Bellostas)
- Distance: 14.5 km
- Duration: 6 hours
- Elevation gain: 450 m
This route takes in old, abandoned villages, terraced fields and traditional architecture. In summer, the route passes through shaded areas and runs close to springs and ravines, making it more bearable despite the distance. The scenic and ethnographic value is enhanced by the summer light and the chance to end the day at one of the nearby pools, such as those on the River Alcanadre or at Salto de Bierge.
What makes these routes unique in summer?
- Pools and bathing spots: many of them allow you to round off the day with a swim in turquoise waters, such as those at El Vero or El Alcanadre.
- Shade and coolness: the gorges offer microclimates ideal for walking even on hot days.
- Landscape and wildlife: the surroundings are teeming with life, featuring lush vegetation and birds that can be easily spotted.
- Lively atmosphere: the villages are vibrant and bustling, with amenities, bars and transport available.
In short, the Sierra de Guara in summer is synonymous with adventure, nature and relaxation. Whether you’re walking at dawn amongst towering rock faces or taking a dip in a hidden pool, these routes showcase the very best of a region that never ceases to amaze.
Bonus: Caving – the cool summer adventure
The Sierra de Guara is not just a paradise of ravines and footpaths: beneath the surface lies a fascinating world of caves, chasms and tunnels, offering a refreshing and adventurous alternative for the summer.
Why is it ideal in summer?
- Constant temperature: cool all year round.
- Adventure and discovery: unique underground landscapes.
- Biodiversity: colonies of bats, complete silence.
- Restricted access: in summer, it is easier to find guides and professional equipment.
Notable caves
- Cueva del Toro: situated beside the River Flumen, it has two entrances and a vast central chamber over 20 metres high. It is famous for its archaeological remains and its easy access, although there are narrow passages and sections where you have to crawl. It is ideal for beginners, provided you take care and are accompanied by a guide.
- Sima Esteban Felipe: a classic choice for those looking to get started with technical climbing, featuring simple vertical sections and a refreshing atmosphere.
- Solencio de Santa Cilia: a trail featuring chambers and plays of light, perfect for those who want to combine natural beauty with adventure.
- Solencio de Bastarás: more complex and damp, for those seeking greater challenges and familiar with vertical climbing techniques.
- Cave in the Arctic: with easy access and a short walk, it is a simple option for families or beginners, although it is always essential to exercise extreme caution.
Recommendations
- Check before you go in: some require a permit.
- Always accompanied by a qualified guide.
- Please do not disturb the wildlife or disrupt their habitats.
Caving in Guara is a refreshing and exciting way to spend the summer, offering a unique perspective on the mountains: from deep within them.
