In July 2023 we visited a wonderful place about 350 km away from Barcelona: The old train station of Canfranc. It is located in a picturesque valley of the Pyrenees Mountains in Aragón at an height of 1200 meters above sea level. The train station was constructed in 1928 and after years of having been a ruin it opened as a luxury hotel in February 2023. This makes it a top destination for a mini break from Barcelona and a great starting point for hiking in the still rather savage mountains.
The whole area was already settled by Romans about 2000 years ago and thus many places were named by them such as the mountain pass of Somport (lat. summus portus) forming the end of the valley of Canfranc. Today there is also a road tunnel with the same name leading through the mountains into France.
The Somport pass was of strategic importance in the old days as it formed a crossing of the Pyrenees in the middle of the mountain range. The other crossings were along the coast in Catalonia and the Basque Country. This was also recognised by the Spanish government in the early 20th century. An 8 km long tunnel was carved through the mountains between 1908 and 1915 but it the tracks were only inaugurated when the train station of Canfranc opened in 1928. Mostly goods were transported during a period of 50 years. After a train accident on the French side which killed many people and destroyed the major bridge France decided not to invest into a reconstruction. This way the railways lines lost their function and the station got into steady decline.
The regional government of Aragón decided for a rehabilitation of the station in 2013. Gradually it was restored with a major push when the Barceló hotel chain decided to install a luxury hotel in the former station building. In January 2023 the hotel opened its doors to the public.
Photo: http://www.turismodearagon.com
We were able to spend a few nights in this hotel. The result of the restoration is impressive with a lot of love for many details. This is absolutely a recommendable destination for a short holiday in the Pyrenees. A ski area is not far if you love winter sports. The hotel offers ski lockers. In summer you are close to many hiking routes with all levels of intensity. The food in the beautiful restaurant was elaborated and creative. We will go back for sure!
How to get to Canfranc Station
From Barcelona you can either get to Canfranc by rental car or by train.
Canfranc by car
Hiring a car in Barcelona is easy and very affordable. All the major rental companies (Hertz, Europcar) are based all across the city – and all of them around the central station of Barcelona – Sants Estació. From here you will be easily outside the bustling city and traffic will quickly subside when you approach the iconic mountain of Montserrat. It is famous for its mountain monastery located high up on the cliffs with a history of 1000 years.
The motorways in Spain are generally in a good condition and recently many toll roads were abolished. Now you can drive free of charge. Be aware of the speed limit of 120 km/h. You need to plan in about 4 hours of driving to get to Canfranc Estación. It is about 350 km driving distance. Keep towards Lleida and then turn into the beautiful Pre-Pyrenees of Aragón. The moment you are close to ancient Jaca you know that it won’t be far anymore.
Canfranc by train
Next to renting a car you can also plan a trip by train. Take the high speed train from Barcelona to Zaragoza and change to a local train that will cross an incredible landscape. in 2023 the tracks to Canfranc were restored and changed to European format so that international trains will be able to run from Toulouse to Zaragoza. This way the travel time will be reduced as well.
Activities in Canfranc
The area of Canfranc has much to offer: it is a great base for hikes, skiing in winter or just relax in the luxury hotel.
Hiking in Canfranc
There is a website called “Espacio Trail Canfranc” with 40+ hikes from beginners to very experienced and fit hikers. You can also download their app for free. Canfranc is definitely a great location if you love the wilderness in the Pyrenees where you truly have the feeling you left civilization.
Skiing in Canfranc
Astún is a modern ski resort just a few kilometres away from Canfranc. It offers 48 pists for all levels.
Guided tour of Canfranc
Michael and I joined a guided tour when staying in Canfranc. On the weekends guided tours in English and Spanish will be offered to tourists coming to the town. The tours cover the history of the building, explanation about many details and a walk over the premises of the old train station. We found it very informative!
Where to stay in Canfranc
The Canfranc Estación, a Royal Hideaway Hotel is definitely a special experience. This hotel by the Barceló group offers all amenities. Ski lockers are available in winter time. The rooms are spacious and elegant. The hotel has two restaurants. One is located within the building and a fine dining restaurant is located in a restored train wagon.
Discover more from Wild Paths Together
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
