Ordesa Valley, Pyrenees, Spain
• 5-star hike
• 11 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 3,570 feet
• Torla, Spain | Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
.

Towering Monte Perdido at the end of the Cola de Caballo trail.
Nestled in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees lies Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Spain's most dramatic mountain landscapes. Four hours northeast of Barcelona, beyond the charming town of Torla, the massive U-shaped Ordesa Valley unfolds—a pristine natural wonder carved by ancient glaciers and framed by towering limestone peaks.
The valley follows the Rio Arazas, which tumbles from the high mountains through a series of spectacular waterfalls. This glacial valley, with its vertical walls rising over 800 meters, creates a unique microclimate supporting exceptional biodiversity, including rare plant species and wildlife like the Pyrenean chamois.
⬤ 5★ Caballo & Cazadores Loop
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX? |
€ Paid parking |
Ordesa Valley has earned recognition as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy spectacular hiking, rafting, canyoning, and via ferrata routes, with popular trails traversing the valley floor and surrounding cliffs.
For those with limited time, a shorter option follows the riverside for 4.5 miles to reach impressive waterfalls near the valley entrance, such as the Cascada del Estrecho - see this AllTrails link. However, for the quintessential Ordesa experience, a full clockwise loop offers unparalleled rewards. This route follows the Rio Arazas toward its mountain source, passing numerous picturesque waterfalls. Despite gaining 1,400 feet over five miles to the Cola de Caballo waterfall, the gradual ascent feels almost imperceptible as surrounding beauty commands attention. The trail culminates at the magnificent Cirque de Soaso, crowned by Monte Perdido towering 11,000 feet above sea level.

One of many waterfalls along the Cola De Caballo Trail.
After reaching the Cola de Caballo (Horse's Tail) waterfall, the route transitions to the Senda de Los Cazadores (Hunters' Trail), continuing up the southern valley wall before leveling off. The return leg offers panoramic views across the entire valley, though sections border steep drop-offs. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot Pyrenean chamois foraging in the undergrowth. The final segment features a 2,000-foot rocky descent back to the trailhead, with switchbacks easing the journey.
While some recommend tackling this loop counterclockwise, experienced hikers prefer the clockwise approach. Starting early allows enjoyment of waterfalls before crowds arrive, and the gradual incline makes the total 3,570 feet of elevation gain more manageable.

The dramatic Ordesa Valley viewed on the return along the Cazadores trail.
Vehicle parking is available at the trailhead, though during peak seasons, private vehicles are restricted, and visitors must use the park-and-ride bus service from Torla, typically running from 6am to 9pm, though schedules vary seasonally.
We stayed at the Hotel Abetos in Torla, a well appointed small town with many hotels and restaurants. Check out the Guias de Torla website or their brick & mortar store in Torla for more details of other activities. We had a great time on a canyoning tour in the nearby Cañones de Guara.

The Cazadores trail traces a precarious cliffside route back to the trailhead.

The valley entrance just outside the picturesque town of Torla.
Tangents:
• Official: National Park Website
• AllTrails Public: Senda de los Cazadores
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us