A spectacular and scenic loop designed for gravel bikes due to its high percentage of asphalt (but also suitable for mountain bikes) that visits the Añisclo Canyon and the Ordesa Viewpoints. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most iconic and photogenic locations within the Ordesa-Viñamala Biosphere Reserve
ORDESA AND AÑISCLO GREAT LOOP
Escalona
Technical data
Route type: Loop
Estimated time: 10-11 h
Terrain: Pista y carretera
Total elevation gain: 2600 m
Physical difficulty: Hight
Technical difficulty: Low
Distance: 94,2 km
Track 29 km
Road: 65,2 km
94,2 km
10-11 h
2600 m
Hight
Points of interest
• Km 0: Departure from Escalona onto what is known as the ‘Canyon road’. A closed environment shaped by spectacular stone walls carved out by the Bellós River. The route gains elevation here, including some demanding climbs.
• Km 18.9: Nerín. Start of the dirt track to the Ordesa Viewpoints, climbing via Cuello Arenas. A steady and very manageable climb with beautiful views.
• Km 30.8: High point of the Ordesa Viewpoints. You can enjoy the entire valley seen from above. Visiting each and every viewpoint is highly recommended. Remember that you are right on the border of the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, where cycling is not allowed. Some viewpoints must be reached on foot; you will find everything is signposted.
• Km 49.1: Torla. A village reached after a fast and beautiful descent along a dirt track. The last few kilometers of this track tend to have more loose stones, so extra caution is required, especially if riding a gravel bike. From Torla, the entire return to Escalona is on asphalt.
• Km 56.8: Sarvisé. Arrival by following the course of the Ara River along its left bank on the national highway. The climb to the Fanlo pass begins from this village, crossing the beautiful Pardina del Señor forest.
• Km 78.9: Alto de Vió, after passing the Fanlo pass. Looking back here is highly recommended to enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the Añisclo canyon and the Monte Perdido massif.
• Km 94.2: Arrival in Escalona, after passing through the villages of Buerba and Puyarruego.
Water / Refreshment point
• All the villages along the route have fountains to drink and refill water. There are also spots to get supplies, eat, or buy food.
• Remember to refill your water and carry enough food for the section between Nerín and Torla along the Ordesa Viewpoints track, as there are no water or supply points on this stretch.
Caution
• The road section from the Añisclo Canyon to San Úrbez may have traffic restrictions and closures. In that case, you would need to climb via Puyarruego towards Buerba.
• The Las Cutas track section is restricted to regular traffic, but 4×4 taxi services operate there. Special attention must be paid during the descent along the track towards Torla, as there are very fast sections.
• The route includes many road sections; remember to follow traffic safety regulations and use rear lights to alert drivers of your presence
Stage map
