Nestled beneath some of the highest peaks in the Spanish Pyrenees, Sallent de Gallego lies just a stone’s throw from the Col du Pourtalet along the border with France. It’s home to the largest ski resort in Spain and on the doorstep of countless hiking trails that include the long-distance GR11.
Things to do in Sallent de Gállego
If you’re visiting in the winter months, head to the Formigal Ski Resort, which encompasses the 2,250-metre-high peak of Tres Hombres. Across a vertical drop of 740 metres, it boasts 147 marked pistes to challenge skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. Formigal is the largest ski resort in Spain, with an on-site ski school, several restaurants and more than 30 chairlifts at your disposal.
Experienced hikers can tackle part (or all) of the GR11, which takes in the rugged peaks of the Spanish Pyrenees across roughly 840 kilometres. For a shorter trek, you can follow the beautiful trail that leads to Punta de Pacino. It offers spectacular views of the Embulse de Lanuza reservoir, as well as Sallent de Gallego backed by the striking Peña Foratata.
Panoramic views are also on offer from the Col du Pourtalet, a mountain pass that marks the border between Spain and France. Forming part of the Massif du Pic du Midi d’Ossau, it lies at 1,792 metres in elevation and links the Ossau and Tena valleys. Challenge yourself on one of the hiking or cycling trails that access the pass, accompanied by the snow-capped Pyrenees.
Getting around Sallent de Gállego
Sallent de Gallego is just over an hour’s drive from Huesca and two hours from Zaragoza Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Sallent de Gallego and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.