7 special mountain villages in the Ribagorza

Planning a vacation in the Spanish Pyrenees? Make sure to visit La Ribagorza and its mountain villages. The Ésera, Isábena, and Noguera Ribagorzana are the main rivers that flow through La Ribagorza and form the valleys of this region in Aragón. 

Besides breathtaking natural scenery and the tallest peaks of the Pyrenees, these valleys also have a fascinating history and culture is reflected in its mountain villages.

We have listed 7 villages in La Ribagorza that are definitely worth a visit:

1. La Puebla de Castro

At an altitude of 640 meters, the origin of La Puebla de Castro goes way back in time. Remains have been found of Neolithic cave paintings, the Hispano-Roman city of Labitolosa, the Muslim fortress on Calvary hill, and medieval architecture.

Strolling through the village, you’ll come across many covered passages and large houses with old coats of arms that remind us of its medieval past. Tip: pay attention to the ‘Picaportes’, the door knockers come in all shapes and sizes!

Besides exploring La Puebla de Castro you can also also visit the Romanesque hermitage of San Román de Castro and the excavations of the Hispano-Roman city of Labitolosa. Or make a beautiful cycling tour through the villages: La Puebla de Fantova, Secastilla, and Ubiergo.

2. Graus

As you travel further into the valley, be sure to make a stop at the picturesque village of Graus. While the main road may not be particularly remarkable, the village center boasts a rich history and culture that are not to be missed. Here are some must-see sights during your visit:

• The town square ‘Plaza Mayor’: a beautiful architectural work, where you can admire decorated portals, semicircular arches and a group of noble houses painted in very colorful shades. This 16th-century square shows the village’s economic and social development during that era. (Tip: make sure to (also) visit in the evening when the square is beautifully illuminated)

• The Basilica of the Virgen de la Peña: pay a visit to the monastery, which is built into a unique location within a rock wall. If you continue along the path, you’ll arrive at the ‘Peña del Morral’ viewpoint with just a half-hour walk. From there, you’ll be rewarded with views of the valley, the village, and the majestic Turbón mountain. Also recommendable with kids.

• Calle Mayor and Calle San Vicente Ferrer: meander through the streets of the village, starting at the Chinchín portal, the former walled enclosure of Graus, and make your way towards Calle Barranco. Here, you’ll find plenty of terraces to relax and to try the local ‘Longaniza’ sausage from Graus.

3. Panillo

Sturdy stone houses, narrow streets decorated with plants, a huge olive oil mill, and… The largest Buddhist temple complex of Spain.

In Panillo, the temple complex ‘Dag Shang Kagyü’ was built in the 1980s. You can visit the complex with or without a guide, attend a yoga class, or stay here for spiritual retreats. The colorful sculptures, stupas, murals, and prayer flags are certainly a unique sight in the mountain landscape. There are both hiking and biking routes to Panillo.

4. Pano

After visiting Panillo, we recommend driving further up the hill towards the village of Pano. This formerly abandoned village consists of only one street called ‘Calle Única’. 

It’s currently being renovated with appreciation to its history by a dedicated family. From the viewpoint and the church of the town, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Cinca valley.

5. La Roda de Isabena

This village is located in the Isábena valley and is on the official list of ‘the most beautiful villages in Spain’. The passages, squares, and portals transport visitors back to the medieval era.

Most notable is the Cathedral of San Vicente, the smallest cathedral in Spain. Built around the year 1000, it’s a reflection of the wealth of Ribagorza during that time. Guided tours are offered at various hours for an entrance fee of €3.

Also, be sure to visit the Romanesque bridge over the Isábena river, where you can take a refreshing swim on warmer days.

6. Liri

Liri is located on the hillside of the Gallinero mountain, at an altitude of 1325 meters. In this mountain village, you can find stone houses that are typical of Pyrenean architecture.

Visit the church of San Martin, the water sources (did you know that there’s a local myth that says drinking the water can help you live up to 100 years old…), the Liri waterfall, the hermitage of Puy, and its viewpoint.

Liri is one of the mountain villages on the ‘El Solano’ route, a series of old paths that were used in the past to connect different villages. The paths lead along streams and meadows, ancient hermitages, and forests where you can spot wildlife or their traces.

7. Benasque

Benasque is the ultimate outdoor village of the valley and serves as the starting and ending point for many mountain activities. In Benasque, you mainly find shops to buy sports or artisanal products. There are also cozy terraces where you can taste local dishes.

Besides starting your favorite mountain sport, you can also visit some characteristic buildings in Benasque. Walk through the cobbled streets and visit the church of Santa María, the tower of Casa Juste, and the Palace of the Counts of Ribagorza. The palace, dating back to 1600, is located on ‘Calle Mayor’ and is remarkable for its ornate Renaissance-style facades.

Which village will you visit during your stay? Share it with us on Facebook or Instagram using # or @chilloutdoorpyrenees.