Jaca

What to do in Jaca

Plans, activities and things to see in Jaca

20 Plans and activities · 15 Destinations & areas

Jaca

Discover Jaca

Jaca is the historic gateway to the Aragonese Pyrenees and one of the most established mountain activity hubs in northern Spain. About 20 km to the north, the Candanchú and Astún ski resorts offer pistes for all levels during the winter season, while in summer the same valleys become hiking ground along the GR-11, which crosses the Pyrenees from coast to coast. Canyoning in the Hecho and Ansó valleys is one of the pre-Pyrenees' signature activities, with geologically striking canyons and descents accessible to groups with no prior experience. Rock climbing finds one of its most active local venues at Peña Oroel, a few kilometres south of Jaca, with routes of varying grades on conglomerate and limestone. Mountain biking in the Canal de Berdún uses forest tracks and droving paths through the pre-Pyrenees to create routes with views of the Pyrenean crests. The Aragonese branch of the Way of St James passes through Jaca, generating a network of historic paths that can be walked at any time of year.

Highlights

  • • Alpine and cross-country skiing at Candanchú and Astún, 20 km away with reliable snow from December to April
  • • Canyoning in the Hecho and Ansó valley canyons, with descents suitable for all levels
  • • Hiking along the GR-11, the great trans-Pyrenean route from Hondarribia to Portbou
  • • Rock climbing at Peña Oroel and mountain biking through the Canal de Berdún with Pyrenean views

Best time to visit

Winter (January–March) for skiing with reliable snow; summer (June–September) for hiking, canyoning and climbing with the valleys fully open.

Practical tips

For canyoning, water temperature in the gorges can be very cold even in summer; the wetsuit provided by the operator is essential, not optional.

Plans and activities en Jaca

Las mejores experiencias y planes disponibles en Jaca

20

Actividades cerca de Jaca

Experiencias disponibles en municipios cercanos

Frequently asked questions sobre Jaca

Yes, several canyons in the area have descents adapted for beginners requiring no prior experience. Local operators provide all equipment (wetsuit, helmet, harness) and qualified guides, with small groups for added safety.
The resorts typically open in December, depending on snowfall. The peak season runs from January to March. In good snow years skiing can continue until April. Check the resort websites before travelling.
The GR-11 does not pass through Jaca itself, but access from the city to the main Aragón valley sections takes 20–30 minutes. The full GR-11 covers about 840 km, but it can be done in daily stages of 15–25 km.