A comprehensive and scenic circular route that explores some of the best corners of the Tena Valley. The itinerary features the mythical climb up to the Collada del Verde from Panticosa, passing through the beautiful La Ripera valley, as well as the classic Vuelta a La Partacua, climbing its southern slope from Piedrafita de Jaca and passing next to the Piedrafita mountain lakes (ibones). This route is perfect for mountain biking and suitable for gravel in many sections, though it includes stony and alpine terrain. Please note that to complete this route, you will need to hike-a-bike (carry or push your bike) for about 10-15 minutes on the descent towards the Sabocos lake from the Collada del Verde
TENA VALLEY LOOP
Sallent de Gállego
Technical data
Route type: Circular
Estimated time: 8-10 horas
Terrain: Pista y carretera
Total elevation gain: 2420 metros
Physical difficulty: Hight
Technical difficulty: Medium
Distance: 84 km
Track 84
84 km
8-10 horas
2420 metros
Hight
Points of interest
- Km 0: Sallent de Gállego, the suggested starting point of the route.
- Km 9: Arrival in Panticosa after riding along the shores of the Lanuza Reservoir and taking the track that connects the upper part of the valley to the village. The path offers beautiful panoramic views of the Búbal Reservoir.
- Km 22: Collada del Verde. The first pass of the route. The summit is reached after riding up the La Ripera Valley. The final ramps of the track are highly demanding and turn into a singletrack. From the pass, enjoy beautiful views of Peña Blanca and the Sabocos lake right below. Here begins the 10-15 minute hike-a-bike descent (or riding for advanced technical levels; caution is required as there is no clear trail and stepped sections are present).
- Km 25.5: Los Asnos lake. At this point, you rejoin the main track after descending from the Sabocos lake.
- Km 38: Búbal Reservoir Dam. Reached after a fast descent (exercise caution) on a dirt track, which turns into tarmac just before passing through the village of Hoz de Jaca.
- Km 53: La Partacua. The highest point of this track, which visits some of the most photogenic mountain lakes in the Tena Valley. The surrounding landscape is magical, and the climbing slopes are moderate, except for a few sections on the old road to Piedrafita de Jaca. This segment includes a short out-and-back detour to see the Piedrafita lake, an absolute must-visit in this valley.
- Km 67.5: Escarrilla. The route reaches this village after a descent that passes through the town of Sandiniés.
- Km 76: Alto de Formigal. Reached after a steady climb along the main road of the valley. Fun fact: ‘Formigal’ means ‘anthill’ in the Aragonese language.
- Km 84: Arrival at Sallent de Gállego, passing by the La Sarra Reservoir just before the finish.
Water / Refreshment point
- Water fountains are available in all towns and villages along the route.
- You will find supermarkets, bars, and grocery stores in the villages.
- Do not drink water from streams or ravines.
- Carry enough food and water to complete the route, especially during the summer months.
Caution
Please note that to complete this route, you will need to hike-a-bike (carry or push your bike) for about 10-15 minutes on the descent towards the Sabocos lake from the Collada del Verde.
Stage map
