Pyrenees in Summer - what to do, where, and when

Why Summer in the Val d'Aran Should Top Your Travel List

During the summer, Val d'Aran transforms into a haven of alpine trails, crystal-clear lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows. Situated near the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, Catalonia's only national park, the area surrounding our properties becomes a lush, serene getaway.

Unlike typical beach destinations, summer here is about fresh mountain air, tranquil beauty, and elevated experiences. Just a few hours' drive from Barcelona, the Toulouse airport, or the high-speed rail station in Lleida. Most guests arrive by car, turning the drive into a scenic journey toward something worthwhile.

Hike Through Towering Peaks and Endless Green Valleys

As spring steps into summer, the trail network in Val d'Aran bursts with life. Discover wildflower meadows that lead to hidden lakes like Baciver or Lac de Mar. Take on the challenge of summiting Montardo, where the panoramic views are reward enough. 

Stroll through pine forests like Baricauba or follow scenic paths from Bagergue to Montgarri. For visitors who prefer short routes with striking views or thrill seekers hoping for a multi-day alpine adventure, this region offers unparalleled access to natural beauty.

Those looking to explore further should visit Andorra's Sorteny Nature Park and the Comapedrosa Valley, featuring glacial cirques, pristine lakes, and well-maintained trails. We recommend hiking from mid-June to early July when the trails are at their best and the weather is pleasant. 

And if you need to relax after a long day's hike, soak in the thermal baths of Arties or unwind at a wellness spa overlooking the surrounding mountain peaks.

A Living Tapestry of Culture and Historic Mountain Villages

With its dry summer climate, July and August are ideal for discovering the charming villages of Val d'Aran. Unlike more commercial destinations, here you'll find places that feel truly timeless; villages like Arties, Bagergue, Unha, and Vielha encourage you to slow down and soak up their character.

Wander along cobbled lanes lined with traditional Aranese houses, visit Romanesque churches like Santa Maria d'Arties or Sant Andreu in Salardú, and stop by local artisan markets in Vielha and Arties, where the craftsmanship and regional products speak of long-standing traditions.

It's a region where heritage isn't preserved in museums. Instead, it lives in the everyday, from architecture to cuisine to the rhythm of daily life.

Adrenaline Under the Pyrenean Sun

As the colder seasons come to an end, Val d'Aran continues to be a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. In Valarties, downhill bikers find thrilling terrain, while paragliding over the Aran Valley or Andorra offers a surreal bird's-eye view of the landscape. Go white-water rafting on the Garona River, ascend vertical cliffs on a via ferrata for heart-racing views, or tackle scenic MTB routes from Vielha to Montromies.

From July 2-6, 2025, you can even witness the HOKA Val d’Aran by UTMB trail running race in the heart of the Pyrenees. It's the fifth edition, with seven mountain races, making this the heart of trail running in the Pyrenees.

Nature's Masterpiece: Beauty and Wildlife Encounters

Summer in the Val d'Aran means wildlife is more active and easier to spot. From the granite peaks and alpine lakes of Aigüestortes National Park to the Aran Fauna Park, where you can see marmots, lynx, deer, and birds of prey, this is a region that celebrates and protects its biodiversity.

In Andorra, explore the UNESCO-listed Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, celebrated for its unique blend of natural wonder and cultural heritage. Nature lovers will delight in sightings of eagles, chamois, or even high-mountain amphibians in clear alpine waters.

Mountain Flavours: A Culinary Journey Through Val d'Aran and Andorra

When a day of adventure comes to an end, indulge in the rich and authentic local cuisine. Summer brings out the best of local produce with traditional dishes that satisfy and surprise in equal measure.

Savour slow-cooked olla aranesa, wild boar civet, creamy truhada with local sausages, or tender fricandó paired with artisanal cheeses and forest mushrooms. In towns like Arties or Unha, intimate restaurants serve meals that reflect the soul of the region: rustic, generous, and exquisitely prepared. Here, fine living and wild beauty go hand in hand, and alfresco dining with mountain views becomes the norm.

Your Summer Retreat: Emerald Stay in Val d’Aran and Andorra

Finishing a day filled with exploration calls for a retreat that matches the setting. Emerald Stay offers elevated accommodations in Val d'Aran, near the national park, and in El Tarter, Andorra. Choose from elegant apartments and chalets designed with refined mountain aesthetics and the utmost comfort in mind.

We don't just offer a place to stay; we provide the perfect base for a summer full of beauty, authenticity, and respite.