This corner of Huesca has it all: mountains, relaxation and thermal waters

Nestled in the heart of the Tena Valley , surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees , this enclave is a paradise for both nature lovers and those seeking relaxation and tranquility. This small village is renowned for its history and its thermal waters, which have been prized since Roman times. 

Today, its spa is one of the most prestigious in Europe, a perfect place to enjoy complete well-being while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. It’s not just the spa that attracts travelers to Panticosa , but also its wide range of activities in nature, from hiking to winter sports.

WHAT TO SEE AND WHAT TO DO IN PANTICOSA

Panticosa Spa

The Panticosa Spa is undoubtedly the heart of the area. With over 8,500 m² dedicated to wellness, this thermal complex offers therapeutic treatments that utilize the mineral-rich thermal waters . Its modern facilities include thermal pools, saunas, and health treatments, perfect for relaxing after a day of mountain adventures. The spa also boasts historical significance, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it was recognized as one of the largest thermal centers in Spain.

Ticket prices vary depending on the service , with a general admission pass to the thermal baths costing between €35 and €50. The usual opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, although these may vary depending on the season. The spa also offers spa and wellness packages starting at €75 for those who wish to enjoy a complete experience.

Panticosa cable car and glacial lakes 

The Panticosa cable car is a unique experience that allows you to enjoy the mountain scenery of the area in a comfortable and quick way. In just 15 minutes, you’ll reach an altitude of 1,900 meters , from where countless possibilities open up for enjoying the natural beauty of the Pyrenees. The cable car not only provides direct access to the ski resort in winter, but also offers spectacular views of Panticosa and the Tena Valley during the warmer months.

From the summit, several hiking trails of varying difficulty can be taken. The most outstanding routes are those that lead to the Asnos and Sabocos lakes, two glacial lakes of breathtaking beauty.

The route to Ibón de Sabocos takes 1 hour and 5 minutes, with an elevation gain of about 150 meters, making it an accessible option for everyone. 

The route to Ibón de Asnos, with similar characteristics, has an elevation gain of approximately 220 meters and is also suitable for beginners. Both routes follow forest tracks that cross a spectacular landscape.

If you’d like a more enriching experience, you can join the guided “Become a Mountaineer” excursion , an activity included with your cable car ticket that allows you to explore the mountain lakes accompanied by an expert mountain guide. This activity takes place Monday through Friday at 10:30 a.m. and is designed to teach you about the local flora and fauna while you enjoy unparalleled mountain scenery.

Once at the top, you will not only enjoy the trails and a natural viewpoint with stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the town of Panticosa , but you can also recharge your batteries at the Petrosos Restaurant, where they serve a delicious menu perfect for hikers.

Furthermore, for cycling enthusiasts, Aramón offers a unique experience with its MTB Pass. This pass allows you to take the cable car up to Petrosos and enjoy the 700-meter descent to the town of Panticosa by bicycle, experiencing a two-wheeled adventure amidst this mountainous landscape.

Panticosa Footbridges

The Footbridge Route features spectacular hanging walkways built into the gorge wall, an 800-meter trail that will leave you breathless. The entire route takes approximately one hour and involves a 160-meter elevation gain. It includes the walk along the impressive footbridges and the ascent to one of the best viewpoints in Panticosa and the surrounding mountains, the Mirador O Calvé. You’ll also encounter bunkers along the way to the viewpoint. 

Surround yourself with wild nature, verticality and excitement on a tour of unparalleled views, a succession of pools and ponds of water from the Caldarés River.

The footbridges are open from 10:00 AM to 5:40 PM and will remain open until the end of October. Children under 7 years old and shorter than 130 cm are not permitted. Children must always be accompanied by an adult. Tickets can be purchased online for €3 or from the ticket machine for €4.

Panticosa Train The Sarrio 

The Panticosa El Sarrio train departs from the town itself and allows you to discover the spectacular surroundings of the La Ripera Valley. In 45 minutes, it takes you along a forest track to the Fuente de La Ripera spring , located at an altitude of 1,520 meters. Once there, get ready for an unforgettable day. 

You can take hikes of varying difficulty, from an easy walk to the waterfall to trails that lead to beautiful mountain lakes. You can also relax at picnic tables and cool off in the pools of the river that runs through the valley.

Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or at the box office. Tickets cost €15 for adults and €10 for children aged 3 to 12.

Skiing and Nordic Skiing

Panticosa offers a variety of options for winter sports enthusiasts. With over 50 km of ski slopes , it’s the perfect place for both beginners and advanced skiers, with a wide range of activities to enjoy this sport during the winter season.

Panticosa boasts a modern ski lift system that provides quick and easy access to all areas of the resort. The resort offers alpine ski slopes of varying difficulty, from easy to challenging, allowing skiers of all levels to enjoy the snow. In addition, the resort features a snowpark for freestyle enthusiasts and a Nordic ski area for those who prefer to practice this activity amidst spectacular mountain scenery.

The resort also has a cross-country skiing area, ideal for the more adventurous, who can explore the terrain with the appropriate equipment. 

Ski pass prices vary depending on the season and pass type, with discounts available for children, seniors (65+), and families. A day pass costs approximately €45 for adults, but discounts are available for online or advance purchases.

HOW TO GET TO PANTICOSA

From Zaragoza

If you’re coming from Zaragoza, the drive will take you just under two hours. You need to take the A-23. The journey is very direct, and you’ll enjoy stunning scenery as you approach the Pyrenees. 

You can also take a bus from Zaragoza to Panticosa, although the journey can take about 2 hours and 40 minutes.

From Huesca

From Huesca, Panticosa is about an hour’s drive away. You can take the A-23 towards Sabiñánigo. Take the exit towards Biescas/N-260a/Cartirana/Larrés/A-136/France (Portalet) from the N-330 and finally continue on the N-260a.

Panticosa is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation in its thermal waters as well as for adventurers who want to enjoy the mountains, skiing, and nature. With easy access from several cities and a wide range of activities, it’s the perfect place for a getaway.