Valle de Tena Family Trek

From the roadside stop at Soques, this high mountain route climbs steadily through a wild valley to the remote Arrémoulit Refuge beside a cluster of small lakes. The walk begins gently but becomes demanding as it gains close to 900 metres to reach a dramatic cirque dominated by Pic Palas and the Arriel peaks. It is a short but intense introduction to Pyrenean terrain, best suited to experienced and confident families who are comfortable with steep ground and some exposure.

From the bus stop, a clear path follows the stream up the wide Soques valley, crossing pastures and patches of pine forest. The gradient soon stiffens as the trail zigzags onto open grassy slopes and then into stonier terrain above the trees. A final climb leads to Col d Arrious, around 2259 m, where views open towards Lac d Artouste and the granite skyline. Beyond the pass, a narrow balcony path with cables traverses an exposed mountainside that demands concentration and stable weather.

After completing the traverse, the path bends into the Arrémoulit basin and descends gently between boulders towards the lakes. The refuge appears ahead on a rocky knoll, backed by the sharp summit of Pic d Arriel. On arrival you can settle into simple dormitories, enjoy a hot drink on the terrace and watch the evening light fade over the surrounding peaks while children explore the nearby shoreline under supervision.

This high mountain traverse links two alpine refuges, leaving the rocky basin of Arrémoulit for the broad valley of Respomuso. The route crosses the frontier between France and Spain, passing blue lakes below towering peaks such as Pic Palas. Short, steady climbs and longer gentle descents make it a calmer day between demanding surroundings, with constant views of glaciers and granite ridges.

From the refuge the path skirts the lakes before climbing in zigzags to a rocky col on the border. After this main ascent, the trail descends on cairned tracks, soon reaching the quiet Ibones de Arriel, framed by cliffs and scree. A series of terraces and short steeper sections then leads down into the head of the Aguas Limpias valley, before contouring above the reservoir of Respomuso.

Approaching the dam, the building of the refuge stands just above the water, with broad views across the lake. On arrival you can drop rucksacks on the terrace, order a drink and watch marmots on nearby slopes. Simple dormitories, hot meals and the sheltered setting make this an inviting place to rest before the following day.

This final section leaves the high mountain reservoir and drops steadily to the village of Sallent de Gállego. The day is dominated by a long descent beside tumbling streams, waterfalls and pine woods, with constant views of peaks such as Pico de Musales. Gradually the wild cirque gives way to pastures, tracks and finally the welcoming valley floor.

From the refuge the route crosses the dam and follows a well marked path along the shore before descending into the valley. A steeper section of zigzags loses height quickly beside the Aguas Limpias, then the trail enters shady forest, sometimes rocky and uneven underfoot. Lower down it joins wider tracks that wind past meadows and the small reservoir of La Sarra, eventually following lanes and paths beside the river towards the village.

Reaching Sallent de Gállego, the route finishes among stone houses, narrow streets and the church square beside the river. Cafés and bakeries offer plenty of options for a final snack while you rest tired feet and enjoy views towards the Foratata ridge. From here it is easy to catch a bus or return to parked cars, giving everyone time to look back at the surrounding peaks before heading home.