Walking Torla

Torla is the gateway to the Ordesa National Park and the Valle de Ordesa, a glacial valley that is a jewel of the Pyrenees.  There are several classic walks here, such as the famous Faja de Pelay, which follows a narrow ledge hundreds of metres above the valley floor. But we are too early in the season for it.  Despite being the second day of summer, its still closed, and the snow on the route is obvious from the car park.

We opt to do the most popular walk, which follows the valley floor to the cirque at its end, the Circo de Soaso.  Just to spice it up, we opt to leave the car at home and walk from Torla.  We’ve heard that the walk between Torla and the Valle de Ordesa car park is beautiful in its own right, so why not?

We managed to catch the Valle de Ordesa in perfect weather, and being early in the season, without the crowds.  And it’s beautiful. The pictures don’t do it justice.

On the walk into the park from Torla – a steady climb the whole way	A brief gap in beautiful birch and pine forest gives a glimpse of the mountains

At the car park area a small herd of cattle graze pastures, giving mountain panoramas in every direction

Then climbing again. In total we ascended 800 m over the 15 km from Torla to the Circo de Soaso	With recent rain and snowmelt the waterfalls were all magnificent

As we approach the Circo the path levels out…	… but the waterfalls are still impressive…

The Circo at last.	We’re at about 1800 m elevation here.

A lovely walk, of great variety – but 30 km LONG. We left at 9.45 and got back at 8.00 pm, pretty damn tired!