Pardina Ledge from Cuello Arenas
- Noelia Comella
- Jan 3
- 4 min read
The Pardina Ledge: Must-Do Route When Staying at As Fuebas de Patricio
Staying at As Fuebas de Patricio, enjoying Vió's rural vibes and grazing lambs? Here's a plan to elevate your experience: the Pardina Ledge from Cuello Arenas, a circular route combining epic views, adrenaline, and encounters with Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park's spectacular wildlife.
Getting to Cuello Arenas
From As Fuebas de Patricio, drive 15 minutes to Nerín and take the tourist bus to Cuello Arenas (private traffic restricted).
Faja de la Pardina from Cuello Arenas. The route: a show step by step
1. From Cuello Arenas: The Starting Point
The adventure begins at 1,900 meters altitude at Cuello Arenas, where you'll find stunning views: Sierra Custodia, Tres Sorores, Añisclo Valley, and even Añisclo Canyon. From here, the path takes you to Casa do Puerto, a small shepherd's shelter, then continues toward Pardina ravine. On the right, a path drops steeply to the ravine of the same name, so we stay high, keeping to the left.
Wildlife moment #1: While walking through this area, stay alert as it's common to see roe deer grazing peacefully in the meadows.
The path skirts a hill until we cross Furicón ravine. Here begins the typical Y-shape of the area's ravines. We head to the furthest slope, on the orographic left. A sign indicates the start of the ledge and allows us to reach it from below (right path) ending at Mallo Candón, where you'll need to do some simple climbing using pitons.
After climbing, we reach the top of Mallata de Candón and take the return path above, via Malpasé ledge until reaching the same fork.
Note: If you have a large dog that you can't lift, I don't recommend doing the circular route. Go to the end of the ledge and return the same way.
2. Entering Pardina Ledge: The Show Begins
In just 20 minutes, you reach the start of Pardina Ledge, a narrow path suspended mid-way up a rocky wall. The sensation here is like walking between heaven and earth, with ravines on one side and vertical walls on the other.
Wildlife on fire: This section is a paradise for bird lovers. Look to the sky and you're sure to see griffon vultures circling, and if you're lucky, a bearded vulture with its unmistakable silhouette. You might also cross paths with a chamois, that agile deer that seems to dance among the rocks.
3. Junction with Añisclo: Connecting with the Canyon
After about two hours of walking (at a leisurely pace), you reach the junction with Añisclo Canyon, one of the route's most iconic points. Here the path changes direction and begins climbing toward Grau del Candón, passing through more inclined and technical terrain.
Notable: From this point you can see the majestic flight of golden eagles crossing Añisclo's skies.
4. Summit of Grau del Candón: Adrenaline and Epic Views
The most exciting section of the route is here: the climb to Grau del Candón, equipped with pitons and cables. It's time to embrace your adventurous side, use your hands, and feel the adrenaline of literally climbing toward the sky.
Once at the top, peaceful meadows welcome you, and the views are incredible: from the Tres Marías to Añisclo Valley, including the highest peaks of the Pyrenees.
Pro tip: Take time to rest, eat something, and of course, take photos. This is the kind of place where time stands still.
5. Malasé Ledge and Return: Perfect Ending
The path continues toward Malasé Ledge, which runs above Pardina Ledge. This section is gentler but equally spectacular, with views that seem taken from a nature documentary. Finally, the path takes you back to Cuello Arenas, completing this amazing circular route.
Wildlife You'll Definitely See on Pardina Ledge
If anything makes this route special, besides its landscapes, it's the amount of animals you can see in their natural habitat. Here's your VIP sighting list:
Roe deer: found in the quieter meadows, especially at the start of the route.
Chamois: they're like the kings of the rocks and easily spotted in the steeper areas.
Bearded vultures: this impressive bird is one of the park's emblems; watch for its solitary flight.
Griffon vultures: you'll see them gliding in groups, riding the air currents.
Golden eagles: if you watch the sky patiently, you'll likely see one of these majestic hunting birds.
Everything You Need to Know
Total distance: 9.7 km
Duration: 3h 40min (but take your time, the route deserves it).
Level: Moderate, with some technical sections (hello, pitons).
Necessary equipment: Comfortable clothing, hiking boots, water, some food and, obviously, your camera or phone.
Best season: Summer and autumn are ideal, as the terrain is safer and views are clearer.
Why Is It the Perfect Plan from As Fuebas de Patricio?
Pardina Ledge isn't just a route, it's a complete experience combining nature, wildlife, and a bit of action. It's the perfect plan to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with the natural world while exploring Vió's surroundings.
Plus, there's nothing better than returning to As Fuebas de Patricio after a day of hiking: good local food, views of Monte Perdido, and the rest you deserve. What do you say? Are you ready to live this adventure?
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