Ordesa and Monte Perdido, among the four favorite destinations for Spaniards to relax

Anxiety, sleep disorders and depression are some of the most common mental health illnesses among Aragonese. According to the Spanish Confederation of Mental Health, stress is one of the main causes of these problems in the workplace. However, many researchers point out that travelling could be the best way to combat this problem and relieve the tension generated after hard weeks of work. Ordesa and Monte Perdido, Picos de Europa and the Costa Brava are some of the natural spaces preferred by Spaniards to disconnect.

According to a macro survey conducted by Statista Consumer Insights, one in four people in Spain has experienced mental health problems, such as depression, stress or anxiety, in the last year. This alarming statistic highlights the growing concern for mental health in today’s society.

Despite this context, 79.2% of respondents reported positive emotions during their 
trips, with time spent with family and enjoying nature being determining factors in improving their 
emotional well-being.

Natural sites such as the Ordesa y Monte Perdido Natural Park are becoming an increasingly 
popular destination for Spaniards. This paradise is an impressive place, famous for its spectacular mountains and extensive hiking trails that invite adventure lovers to explore its beauty.

ORDESA AND MONTE PERDIDO, BEST NATURAL DESTINATION ACCORDING TO NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

To make matters worse, this unique enclave in the province of Huesca was declared the best natural destination in Spain by the readers of the prestigious National Geographic magazine. Also chosen as the best hotel in Spain was the Hotel Canfranc Estación de Royal Hideway, which has already received 30,000 visitors and has a restaurant with a Michelin star.

In the heart of the Aragonese Pyrenees, the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, in the province of Huesca, stands out as a natural treasure to visit and lose yourself in through its impressive landscapes and biodiversity.

This protected area, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, is one of the Community’s greatest attractions and is visited by thousands of visitors every year. Some simply set off on foot and explore this natural wonder, with the surprise of finding the Cola de Caballo Waterfall or the Mirador de Calcilarruego, or others prefer to plan their route so as not to miss places such as the Faja de las Flores or the Circo de Soaso.

Whatever the case, it has been proven that tourism in natural environments not only provides a respite from everyday stress, but also contributes significantly to the mental health of travellers. Something to bear in mind on a day like today, October 10, World Mental Health Day.