GEOLOGY

Due to shifts of tectonic plates about 65 million years ago, the land was pushed up and the sea disappeared that had been present until that time. This created mountains such as the Alps, Carpathians and Pyrenees.

Rock formations and mountain lakes

During the time the land rose, ancient granite rocks appeared on the surface of the earth. Nowadays these granite massifs form the highest peaks in the Pyrenees, including Aneto, located in the Benasque Valley.

In addition, the mountain range of the Pyrenees has undergone changes due to glaciers in the different ice ages. The glaciers formed U-shaped valleys and mountain lakes arose from them. In Aragonese language, a mountain lake is also called: ibón.

In our valley there are beautiful hiking trails to many of these mountain lakes, including those of: Lliterola, Batisielles and Escarpinosa. Do you want to do one of these hikes? Feel free to ask us about the possibilities.

Fossils in the Isabena Valley

'Valle de Isabena' is known for its geological history. About 55 million years ago, the valley did not exist, it was an enormous distributary channel towards the Atlantic Ocean. A river flowed from the Pyrenees to this tropical sea, transporting tons of sand and mud.

The estuary can still be seen in remains in the rocks and fossils that can be found everywhere.

Over one of the elevated rock formations a Via Ferrata has been built. It's one of the more difficult and impressive routes in the area, where you climb up quite some meters.

Medieval Cathedral of Roda de Isabena

You can enjoy beautiful hiking and mountain bike tours in the Isabena Valley. On these routes you can find information boards that explain about the geological history of the valley. Also a visit to the medieval cathedral and the monastery of the village of Roda de Isabena are very worthwhile. Great to combine with a lunch in the accompanying restaurant 'La Hospederia La Catedral', where you sit down in an old church. 

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