NOGUERA PALLARESA AND ÀSSUA VALLEY
A fantastic route that takes us deep into the lower part of the Àssua Valley, following the old bridleways that connect the area's population centers. We begin the hike in Sort, the capital of Pallars Sobirà, and go up the Noguera Pallaresa River to Rialp. A very steep climb takes us to the village of Surp, which still retains all its charm. From Surp, we descend to the bottom of the Pamano River valley, visit the ruins of Mola de Sall, and climb to Altron. A long, panoramic flank takes us to the hermitage of Sant Josep de Olp, a must-see vantage point for the entire valley. We return to Sort, passing through the town of Olp.
This route is a wonderful journey through the heart of Pallars Sobirà. We begin the itinerary up the Noguera Pallaresa River, the backbone of the entire Pallars Sobirà region. The spectacular entrance to Rialp via the 19th-century Santa Caterina suspension bridge, as well as a visit to the medieval castle ruins of Rialp, prepare us for the short but steep climb to the beautiful Surp. We then visit the ancient Mola de Sall, located on the so-called River of a Thousand Names; in its lower reaches, it is called Sant Antoni, in its middle reaches, the Altron River, and in its upper reaches, it is called Pamano. A beautiful flank from the picturesque village of Altron takes us to the panoramic hermitage of Sant Josep de Olp, a point that offers sweeping views of the entire Noguera Pallaresa valley and the Batlliu de Sort. From Olp, we descend in wonder through an ancient oak forest, well protected by beautiful dry-stone banks.
THE BEST OF THE ROUTE
• Cross the Noguera Pallaresa River over the Santa Caerina suspension bridge, at the entrance to Rialp.
• Stroll through the narrow, picturesque streets of Surp, Altron and Olp.
• The historic roads of the Àssua Valley and the Batlliu de Sort.
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Duration:
Full day.
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Total effective time (without stops):
4:45h in total: 2:15h from the starting point to Surp and 2:30h from this town to Sort passing through Mola de Sall, Altron and Olp.
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Cumulative elevation gain:
605m
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Difficulty:
Remarkable. The route does not present any technical difficulties.
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Season:
All year round.
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Material:
We recommend bringing binoculars for observing large and small birds of prey (griffon vulture, golden eagle, red kite, buzzard, kestrel...) and other birds.
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Cartography:
High Pyrenees Natural Park. 1:50,000. Alpina Publishing.
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Note:
If you're a large group, be careful when crossing the Santa Caterina Bridge. It's recommended to do so in small groups.
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How to get there by car:
The starting point for the excursion is the Hotel Restaurant Las Brases in Sort. We arrive in Sort via the C-13 highway. Hotel Les Brases is located on the C-13 highway, just off the northern exit from the town. There is plenty of free parking in front of the hotel.