eng NATURAL PARADISE The Sierra and Cañones of Guara Natural Park is one of the largest protected areas of Aragon. Its wild and exquisite grandeur is not found on the hills and peaks but in the spectacular and dramatic beauty of its deep canyons; sculpted by the rivers, rain and wind over centuries. The power of the rivers is reflected in the landscapes and is best appreciated on foot; on the way to the Balced peak; in the Mascún canyon or at the springs of Tamara and el Puntillo. Gorgas Negras, the Fornazos narrows, the Fornocal gorge, the dark depths of Balced and the Vero canyon, are legendary names in the long list of Guara canyons. Their breathtaking beauty has brought the area fame as a paradise for lovers of adventure sports. Roaring over the limestone of the canyons, the water has helped to create impressive, vertical walls; sharp crests such as the Ciudadela de Mascún; a cute spires such as Cuca de Bellosta; and deep hollows (known locally as foraus or portals) such as those at Cunarda and Ventana de Mascún. A remarkable world of minerals. A true paradise where one can undertake many activities in a natural environment, such as hiking, mountain biking, cycling, canyoning, as well as mountain climbing, via ferratas, trail running and horse riding... Guara Somontano is also a magnificent scene where important sporting events take place here throughout the year.
MTB AND ROAD BIKE
PREPYR365
If something characterizes Guara Somontano it is the diversity of it landscapes and the multiple possibilities available to sport lovers in natural surroundings, such as the sport of bicycle touring.
Guara Somontano together with the Hoya de Huesca and Cinco Villas in the province of Zaragoza is Prepyr365 area. This consists of territories in the heart of the Pre Pyrenees that allow us to enjoy natural and patrimonial resources and explore natural surroundings such as the Sierra de Guara, the Reino de los Mallos or the Sierra de Santo Domingo.
There are several mountain bike routes cover a good part of the region. There are tracks of varying difficulty in terms of climb and length of the route. All are circular and can be followed in either direction and many are interconnected allowing cyclists to cover long distances. For those who prefer finer tyres and narrow winding roads with spectacular views, Guara Somontano offers different routes, where one can discover the Somontano and the Province of Huesca. All routes are circular and designed to be completed in one day. BGuara Cycling Rocks is a large touring cyclist space in the middle of the Sierra de Guara. It offers 29 routes, in which, one can discover the most inaccessible corners of this land: 14 enduro routes, 8 rally routes, 2 family routes, 1 challenge route, 1 XC route, 3 road routes and a 5-stage circular crossing. A selection of touristic establishments gives cyclists exclusive services. www.bguara.com
How to see them? Mountain Bike. Two big mountain bike routes: the Pre Pirenaica Slow one consisting of 4 stages, Bierge to Sos del Rey Católico through 182 kilometres of paths and local roads and the PrePirenaica All Mountain, which has a more demanding and technical profile, connecting Alquézar with Luesia, also with 4 stages and 235 kilometres. Walking. The PrePirenaica Trail is a long walking track that crosses the PrePyrenees from West to East. It is a route consisting of 12 stages that connect villages, passing over the highest parts of the foothills and visiting its magical corners. Enjoy the PrePyrenees 365 days a year! www.prepyr365.com
BIRD WATCHING The majestic Lammergeyer, one of the rarest birds of prey in Europe, glides gracefully over the sheer cliffs of Guara with Griffon Vultures, Red and Black Kites, the fast and agile Peregrine Falcons, the Golden Eagle, the queen of the birds, and the Eagle Owl. The rich array of birds of prey also includes an interesting group of forest species such as the Goshawk, the Eurasian Sparrowhawk and the European roller. On the banks of the rivers visitors may be lucky enough to see the Grey Heron, the Kingfisher and the White-throated Dipper. The presence of these exquisite birds is an indication of clean rivers, free of contamination. Totally different species of bird inhabit the southern stretches of Somontano. The dry, earthy terrainand semi-arid gullies are home to birds that are perfectly adapted to difficult conditions such as drought and extremes of temperature. These include the Stone Curlew, the Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, the Black-bellied Sandgrouse and the Little Bustard.
HIKING
ROCK CLIMBING AND VIA FERRATA
Some of the routes are educational and display information tables and panels; these are easy and straightforward and are designed as a way for families to enjoy nature. Other routes follow old, historical paths once used by hunters, workers, charcoal miners and shepherds. There are also many sporting routes of different lengths with important level changes along the way; the effort involved is more than compensated for with magnificent views. The Somontano Natural Route, a spectacular footpath that stretches over 50 km, takes visitors into a unique environment in terms of landscapes as well as historical, cultural and natural values. It is ideal for everyone. The full route can be undertaken in 3 stages or it can be used to create shorter itineraries. It’s possible to connect up with the Hoya de Huesca Natural Route. Lovers of Trail Running have the perfect destination here, as all walking tracks are suitable for this demanding sport, which every day is growing in popularity.
The impressive castle, collegiate church and medieval villa rise majestically from the River Vero canyon in a natural environment of wild beauty in the Sierra and Cañones of Guara Natural Park and River Vero Cultural Park. Towers and fortified walls; chapels and traditional architecture; ice wells and cave paintings; legends of maidens, wanderers and Moorish kings; hiking routes, rock climbing and adventure sports; the mythical descent of the River Vero... all of this can be found all of this can be found here. Alquézar has been declared one of the most Beautiful Villages of Spain. Wander through narrow streets and alleyways; pause in a porch-lined squares; climb to the fortified enclosure; travel back in time amongst the Romanesque carvings of the cloister; marvel at the beauty inside the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria, discover the everyday life of our ancestors in the Ethnological Museum Casa Fabian, enjoy the marvellous landscapes whilst hiking or mountain biking, live our experiences descending the Canyon of the river Vero, visit the shelters of the Chimiachas with its cave paintings, participate in the Ultra Trail Guara Somontano Challenge...
Canyoning –descending through the river canyons– is a privileged activity due to the attractive combination off fun, sport and adventure and the close contact with nature. It consists of descending along the river bed and bravely crossing the many obstacles formed by the steady erosion of the water; deep pools; high waterfalls; rocky ledges; huge deposits of stones (fondly called “chaos”) and narrow cavities, all of which have to be tackled along with strong currents. In order to overcome the difficulties, techniques used for potholing and rock climbing are used and because of this, the use of specialist equipment and a professional guide is strongly recommended. There are many places in Guara where it is possible to experience the unrepeatable sensation of being carried by the water –swimming, jumping and sliding– in places such as Mascún, Gorgas Negras, Vero and Peonera. Due to its huge potential and the variety of its canyons the Sierra de Guara is recognised as the birthplace of canyoning at an international level. More than 60 canyons hidden in the mountain range boast different lengths and various levels of difficulty in terms of physical and technical preparation. They offer varied landscapes, spectacular scenery and diverse attractions.
Through some of the different ornithological routes, it is possible to discover a small part of the biological wealth of Guara Somontano, a truly privileged place for those passionate about bird watching.
Many shorter walking paths criss-cross Guara Somontano to weave a comprehensive network of signposted routes. A good number of them are found around the villages of Alquézar, Bierge, Rodellar, Colungo and in the south of the region.
ALQUÉZAR
CANYONING
Fans of heights and the feel of rock under their feet will be delighted with the magical and inimitable cliffs of Guara Somontano. It is a magnificent place to practise the white-knuckle sport of rock climbing and the more gentle option of via ferratas. Via ferratas are vertical routes that allow easier access across rock walls and cliffs due to special grips provided along the way. Ladders, bridges, metal staples attached to the walls, chains, fixed handrails and the corresponding security cable allow visitors to discover hidden corners of Somontano that would otherwise be unreachable. There are 2 via ferratas that are ideal for beginners; those of Espolón de la Virgen del Castillo in Rodellar and Peñas Juntas in Bierge. The area around Rodellar is a true paradise for lovers of rock climbing because has more than hundreds of routes. Another interesting place for climbing practice is the mountaineering school in Alquézar. A dedicated sporting school with different sectors. The deep ravine of Olvena is an area of assorted and irregular rock types, where classic, technical rock climbing can be practised. There are numerous vertical cliffs as well as smooth walls of rock.
Alquézar offers an endless array of unforgettable sensations.
BARBASTRO Since its foundation in the 9th century, has held the title of capital of Somontano. The attractive complex of San Julian and Santa Lucia is the perfect starting point from which to discover the delights of the region and city of the River Vero. It is the home to the local Tourist Information Office, the Somontano Designation of Origin Wine Zone and the Somontano Visitor Centre. The cathedral complex brings together the most emblematic monuments of the city; the Majestic Cathedral of the Assumption (16th century) with its impressive bell tower (16th - 18th century) and the Diocesan Museum. The Calle Mayor takes the visitor through the era of the Renaissance with striking buildings such as Casa Latorre (now headquarters of the University of Distance Learning) and the Argensola Palace. It finishes in the Plaza del Mercado (Market Square) where a bustling food market is held every Saturday. The most picturesque views of the city and its many bridges can be enjoyed from the area around the church of San Francisco. Close by, is the monumental Ice Well of Barbacana, which was constructed in the 17th century and is now home to an interesting visitor centre. Barbastro is a Wine-producing town, epicentre to discover numerous wineries dotted around its outskirts and that can be visited following the Somontano Wine Route (Ruta del Vino Somontano).
THE RIVER VERO CULTURAL PARK The River Vero Cultural Park possesses cultural and heritage elements of great relevance. Comprising of the municipals of Bárcabo, Colungo, Alquézar, Adahuesca, Santa Mª de Dulcis, Pozán de Vero, Azara, Castillazuelo and Barbastro. Its privileged location between the lower mountain ranges of the Pyrenees and the foothills of Somontano affords the area rich landscapes and a natural environment of great quality. In the upstream part of the river Vero, between Lecina and Alquézar, the river has sculpted rough walls, rocky cliffs and spectacular gorges colonized by unique plants and inhabited by an infinite array of birds of prey. This northern sector also makes up part of the Sierra and Cañones of Guara Natural Park. Downstream, the river enters the valley and the villages stand proudly on its banks among rolling landscapes, vegetable gardens and vineyards in Mediterranean surroundings. Following the course of the river reveals a legacy of former communities that once inhabited its banks, from Palaeolithic times until the present day: prehistoric cave art, ancient dolmens, Romanesque chapels, Gothic churches, Baroque temples, the remains of hilltop fortresses and rural compounds, myths and traditions as well as hand-crafted produce.
GASTRONOMY, WINE AND OLIVE OIL
Through heritage of the olive of this land it is possible to discover its biodiversity and its rich and historical past, and it also provides the perfect excuse to taste exceptional oils, the authentic liquid gold of the Somontano. Modern mills produce extra virgin olive oil from indigenous varieties such as the “alquezrana”, the “negral” and “verdeña,” which give colour, aroma and flavour to the local gastronomy. Many olive oil mills offer guided visits and informative tastings, providing a new way to experience Somontano. In Buera and Salas Bajas we can find old oil mill presses, where one can discover the traditional techniques of olive oil production.
The deepest of the mountain ranges of the Sierra de Guara hide more than 60 shelters that boast an array of cave paintings, which together have been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. Through these enigmatic representations of a variety of signs and animals, prehistoric societies gave expression to their creativity, their beliefs and their knowledge. This great haven of rock had magical significance for the Palaeolithic hunters (30,000 years ago) as well as for Neolithic and Bronze Age man. They all left their mark, the result of which is a relatively small area of the Vero where it is possible to see all the classic styles of European prehistoric paintings: Palaeolithic, Levantine and Schematic art.
TRADITION Each year, the brotherhoods prepare their cornets, and drums, to fill the streets and squares of Barbastro with the sounds of Easter, Festival of National Tourist Interest. San Ramón’s bonfire, the Candelera Fair, the Crespillo Fiesta (Festival of Tourist Interest in Aragon) or the historical reenactment of the “Betrothal of Lady Petronila of Aragon and the Count Ramón Berenguer IV” in Barbastro, Naval “palotiau”, Noche de Ánimas at Radiquero, Dulcis, Torreciudad and El Pueyo pilgrimages, are some of the festive calendar highlights in the Somontano. Museums and visitor centres, monuments, guided visits and a multitude of activities and sporting, cultural and gastronomic events allow the visitor to enjoy a wide range of cultural tourism throughout the year.
Live, feel, discover LEGENDARY STONES
Adahuesca and Abiego are places of transition lying between the farmed Mediterrenean landscape and mountain ranges. Abiego is considered to be the gateway to Guara and in Adahuesca the myths and legends come to life in their museum centre. Further north, we find artistic evidence of historic Cave Art from the Vero River in Colungo. It’s a World Heritage site and the starting point for numerous paths on the discovery of this prehistoric art. World heritage listed, beautiful landscapes and adventure await us in priviledged locations such as Sevil, the Vero River, Portiacha and Fornocal canyon, Treviño chapel, Virgen de Viña, Monument to the 20th century and the “Portal de la Cunarda” amongst many others.
Situated at the feet of the Sierra de Arbe, Naval is one of the most emblematic locations of the Somotano. Known for its tradition in pottery, which dates back to medieval times, today it is a reference point for its salt-water spa. The Salinar de La Rolda is an explotation that was built to extract salt from the spring. Today, this tradition is accompanied by therapeutic and recreational baths.
The Somontano Designation of Origin, heir to a thousand-year-old tradition, is characterized by modernity, individuality and quality. The diversity of the grape varieties grown contributes to arange of wines that are aromatic, exuberant and intense or fresh, fruity and delicate. They present a perfect balance between alcohol and acidity. In Somontano it is said there is a wine for every occasion, for every dish and for every person. Through the aromas, colour and character of the wines the personality of this privileged territory is revealed.
CAVE ART
Throughout the year, there are guided visits to the caves at Arpán, Mallata, Barfaluy and Lecina Superior. The routes round the caves that can be visited are signposted, have information panels and easy access. The departure point for a magical prehistoric journey that takes in the splendour of the cave art is the Colungo Visitor Centre. The River Vero Cultural Park forms a part of the European Itinerary “Prehistoric Rock Art Trails”.
NAVAL
The Somontano has a rich and varied gastronomy originating from local produce and restaurants catering to all tastes. In the specialized shops you will find high quality olive oils, excellent cured meats, tasty cheeses and delicious desserts. Fruits from the country side are ever present in Somontano dishes. The changing of seasons bring us delights such as “tomate rosa” (pink tomato) and a variety of winter vegetables.
Naval, apart from its natural and cultural heritage also offers a series of walking and mountain bike tours and interpretative routes covers everything from salt and pottery to the trenches in the Civil War.
SIERRAS AND RIVERS Estadilla is an essential destination for lovers of hiking, mountain biking and bird watching. It is also a cultural epicentre with a full calendar of events: the Wine Truffle and Jazz Festival, live nativity scene performances, sporting events and more. Interesting examples of cave art are preserved in the Sierra de la Carrodilla. Nearby, the village of El Grado is situated. It is a truly privileged location, which allows us to enjoy nature in many ways, to discover interesting examples of heritage and to learn about the culture and popular traditions of the Somontano.
SOMONTANO WINE ROUTE The Somontano Wine Route, with more than 80 establishments offer the wine tourist all the services needed to enjoy their trip. Wineries, food shops, restaurants, wine bars, lodgings, shops, cultural activities, museums, adventure and leisure, travel agents and transport companies.
TORRECIUDAD Torreciudad is situated by El Grado lake, whose deep turquoise waters reflect the snow-capped Pyrenees.
The Somontano Wine Route is a journey through the senses, where wine is the destination. Guided visits and activities in wineries, oil mill presses and cheese producers, courses and wine tasting of DO Somontano wines, activities in the vineyards, gastronomic degustation...
The sanctuary, sponsored by St. Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer, founder of Opus Dei, is at the center of the Marian Route linking the temples of El Pilar in Zaragoza, Montserrat in Barcelona, Lourdes in France and Meritxell in Andorre.
Enter www.rutadelvinosomontano.com and discover everything it has to offer.
It was a spiritual center of the first order since its origins in 1084, and still remains today as every year hundreds of thousands of pilgrims pass coming from all around the world.
BIERGE AND RODELLAR VALLEY Rodellar Valley, in the heart of Guara Natural Park, is a space where enormous rocky formations, sculpted from the flowing water into canyons, gorges and rock pools, allows the general public to enjoy many of the openair activities. Canyoning, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking... every possibility for every level. The canyon of Mascún, the Gorgas Negras (the Black Gorges), the Peonera, the Oscuros de Balced or the Huevo de Morrano are some of the beautiful gifts nature offers us in the surrounding areas of Bierge, Rodellar, Las Almunias or Morrano, all of them dominated by the imposing figures of Tozal de Guara (2.077 m) and the Cabezo (1.870 m).
SOUTHERN LANDS The southern part offers us another side to the Somontano: a semiarid landscape of smooth relief sand ancient dry land farming, which today has been transformed into vast extensions of irrigated land. Following the Spring Wells Route, the visitor can discover how our ancestors stored and extracted the water in the area, a prized and precious wealth from beneath the earth. Beautiful examples of Romanesque art in Berbegal, Peralta de Alcofea and El Tormillo greet us on our trip. Majestic birds, perfectly adapted to drought and extreme temperature are faithful company on this journey into the lands of the south.