The Huesca region is one of the most ideal places for rafting in Spain. This province is home to the Pyrenean mountain range, with numerous powerful rivers perfect for this sport. You likely know this already, but let’s recap: rafting is an activity that involves descending a river’s course in the direction of the current on an inflatable raft. It’s a team sport where participants must paddle in coordination using a single-bladed paddle.
It’s a thrilling sport, but it does carry risks, so here’s an article on rafting safety tips. But before we dive into details, here’s a list of all the prices and companies offering rafting in Huesca. Now, without further ado, here are the 5 best rivers for rafting in the Aragonese Pyrenees. THE 5 BEST RIVERS FOR RAFTING
IN THE ARAGONESE PYRENEES
IN THE ARAGONESE PYRENEES
1. Gállego River
Located near the town of Murillo de Gállego, this river offers 22 kilometres of rafting routes. It’s a tributary of the Ebro River, originating at Col d’Aneu, north of Sallent de Gállego. The classic rafting route spans 11 kilometres with moderate difficulty, running from the La Peña Reservoir to Murillo de Gállego. There are three distinct difficulty levels: Level 1, suitable for school groups and families with children; Level 2, the most popular due to its rapids and waves; and Level 3, designed for rafting experts.
2. Veral River
Starting in the village of Zuriza, it flows through the Ansó Valley until reaching Villareal de la Canal. This wild, natural river is at its best in spring—the snowmelt season in the Aragonese Pyrenees—when high water levels allow for exhilarating descents with minimal effort. The scenery is spectacular, with lush vegetation offering a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Access to the river is at the crossroads between the Hecho Valley and Ansó Valley. The starting point is the old bridge, where a tributary from the mountain pass between the two valleys meets the river.
3. Aragón Subordán River
Divided into 5 sections by difficulty level, this river is located in the Hecho Valley. It’s a straightforward route with breathtaking views of the valley. High water flows make it ideal from February to June, especially after spring rains, when the river swells—perfect for rafting.
The route covers 25 kilometres, taking approximately 5-6 hours to complete. With a difficulty grade of III-IV, it’s recommended for participants aged 16 and above.
4. Ara River
This river runs between the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, near the villages of Torla and Broto. The descent takes you through a dramatic, steep-sided canyon with fast-flowing water and thrilling rapids.
You’ll always be accompanied by a professional guide who’ll provide instructions for a safe descent. The best time for rafting here is from March to July.
The route is 4 kilometres long, taking around 2 hours to complete. The starting point is the Bujaruelo Refuge, with the endpoint at the road bridge. Difficulty level: IV-V.
5. Ésera River
Located in the Benasque Valley, it originates in the Maladeta Massif and flows into the Cinca River.
Rafting is possible year-round thanks to its regulated flow. It’s divided into two zones: "La Silla" and "Pirámides"—the latter requires caution due to dangerous siphons.
"La Silla" is an easy section, ideal for children or school groups (Grade 2 difficulty). "Pirámides" is more challenging (Grade 3-4) and suitable for ages 13-14 and up.
