HORSEBACK RIDES

Aneto: North face & South face

Duration

2 days

Route

20-26 km/day

Time on the road

6 to 7 hours/day

Group

4 to 8 people (contact us for other options)

Riding level

Upper-intermediate

Ride across both faces of Aneto, the summit of the Pyrenees!

Dare to explore the secret trails of Aneto, the highest mountain in the Aragonese Pyrenees. Ride along the paths once traveled by bandits and pilgrims, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this incomparable region.

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Characteristics of the equestrian route

Landscapes of the ride

The Benasque Valley (Aragon, Spain) is the place where the largest number of peaks over 3,000 meters are concentrated in the entire Pyrenees, so this equestrian route takes place through very varied high mountain landscapes, in addition to riding alongside several waterfalls.

We will continually cross the different altitudinal levels on horseback and see the following places of special interest:

  • Maladeta massif, crowned by Aneto (3,404 meters).
  • Ardonés and Vallibierna Valleys.
  • High mountain lakes.

Duration: 2 days on horseback

This equestrian tourism activity lasts for 2 days.

This route is radial, meaning that the horses will sleep at Anima Equi each night, but at the beginning of each day, we will transport them to the best starting points to ensure you enjoy the routes to the fullest. Riders are picked up in Anciles by a vehicle and returned each day over short distances (no more than 17 km). These transfers are included in the price.

This two-day horseback journey will take you to discover the two faces of Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees. On the first day, you will ride through the historic Portillón de Benasque (2,444 meters) and the Picada Pass, admiring the majesty of the Maladeta massif. On the second day, the route ascends through the Ardonés Valley towards high mountain lakes, offering spectacular views of Aneto, Maladeta, and Posets, in a pure and wild environment. A unique experience to connect with the essence of the Pyrenees.

Location and weather

The Benasque Valley is in the northeast of Spain, in the province of Huesca, within the autonomous community of Aragon. It is located in the heart of the Pyrenees, very close to the border with France. It is part of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, a protected area that is home to some of the highest mountains in the Pyrenees. It is located about 3.5 hours by car from Barcelona, ​​2 hours by car from Zaragoza and 2 hours from the French town of Luchon.

As for the weather, it is usually sunny, with mild and very pleasant temperatures in contrast to the center and south of Spain, since we are in a high mountain environment. In the summertime the temperature is warm during the day, but cool at night. In autumn and spring the temperature is mild, although in the morning and at night it is lower. In high mountains you must be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

Season and languages

This equestrian route can be booked in the months of June, July, August, September and October.

Guide available for Spanish, Catalan, English and French speakers.

Information for riders

Horses and equipment

Our horses are Pure Spanish breed (PRE) and crossbred. They are very safe in the high mountains. They always live in semi-freedom and are used to difficult terrain, so they are reliable and have a lot of resistance. They are able to cross rivers and navigate difficult trails with ease.

Our horses love being outdoors and human company, and are trained in the English style. We use English cable ties and hackamores. The saddles are English-type gait, designed to guarantee the comfort of both the rider and the horse. Each horse carries saddlebags so that the rider can transport his personal equipment.

Route pace

The terrain determines the pace of this equestrian route. Every day we will face important slopes that will allow us to cross very different landscapes and enjoy impressive views. We will do most of it at the walk, but we will also trot and gallop.

Riding level and maximum weight

The riders participating in this route need a medium-high level of horse riding, they must have control of the horse and be used to riding outdoors. The ideal is that they control the three airs in the open field.

The maximum weight of the rider cannot exceed 95 kg./210 lbs./15 st. Good physical condition is needed, because we ride around 6 hours a day. At some points, we will walk alongside the horse.

Minors aged 14 and over can participate in the routes.

Accommodation and Transport

Lodging and meals

Accommodation is not included in the price of this route. For lodging, we recommend Casa Mingot, a 16th-century manor house with a fortified tower, part of the characteristic group of ancestral homes in the village of Anciles. It offers tourist apartments for 2 and 4 guests.

Meals are not included during this equestrian route. If your accommodation is at Casa Mingot, we can provide an extra service with a package including breakfasts, snacks, and lunches.

Airport transfers

Taxi transport to the airport is optional and not included in the price, nor is the cost of the flight. All transfers are centralized from Barcelona Airport.

The price is €235 (round trip) with a minimum of 2 passengers. The journey takes 3.5 hours.

Route itinerary:

Day 1
Day 2

Important information for your adventure

What services does the price include?
What services are not included?
What do I need to bring with me?
Tips for sustainable travel