Aragon is known for its natural beauty, its rich cultural heritage and its gastronomic offer. In the heart of the province of Huesca, this land of contrasts is home to gems such as Boltaña, a town that seems straight out of a fairy tale and has become an essential destination for lovers of rural tourism. This charming corner is a perfect example of how small towns boost local tourism, attracting visitors with their medieval charm and spectacular natural surroundings.
The province of Huesca is known for its mountain landscapes and its towns full of history, where each place seems to tell a legend. Boltaña , with its castle on top and its cobbled streets, offers visitors a unique experience that combines tranquility, architectural beauty and a close connection with nature. If you are looking for what to see in Boltaña, get ready for an unforgettable trip.
BOLTAÑA, THE VILLAGE THAT SEEMS TO BE TAKEN OUT OF A STORY
Located in the heart of the Aragonese Pyrenees, Boltaña stands out as one of the most beautiful towns in Aragon. Its medieval history, its imposing castle and its landscapes surrounded by mountains make it a destination that seems taken from the pages of a fantasy book. Walking through its narrow streets is like travelling back in time, discovering old stone houses, balconies full of flowers and the calm that characterizes this town in Huesca.
Boltaña Castle, located on top of a hill, is one of the main attractions of the place. From its summit you can enjoy spectacular views of the Ara valley and the old town, an image that leaves those lucky enough to see it breathless. This town is also the perfect starting point to explore the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
WHAT TO SEE IN BOLTAÑA
Boltaña offers a large number of places of interest that make any visit unforgettable. Among the must-sees are:
Boltaña Castle: Built in the 10th century by Lombard-trained craftsmen, this castle is one of the first in the Kingdom of Aragon, Sobrarbe and Ribagorza. Situated on a hill, its military structure includes a wall, a watchtower and a cistern to store water. Although it is currently in ruins, it remains a fascinating place due to the legends of witchcraft and covens that surround it and the panoramic views it offers of the Ara valley.
The Collegiate Church of San Pedro: This monumental 16th-century work is one of the largest temples in the Aragonese Pyrenees. Its Aragonese Gothic exterior with Renaissance details hides an impressive interior with a wide central nave and a ribbed vault. Its Romanesque doorways, the bell tower, and the interior furnishings such as the 18th-century Baroque walnut choir stalls, the Burgasé baptismal font, and the altarpiece of San Lorenzo de Morillo stand out.
The old town of Boltaña: With a radial layout from the 15th to the 17th centuries, this old town is one of the most outstanding in the region. Its cobbled streets lead to small squares and alleys, where you can admire courtyard houses, block houses and chimneys with “witch scarers”, typical protective elements of the region. Don’t miss the houses of Don Jorge and Carruesco, both from the 16th century, or the water wheel in front of the Gorga de Boltaña natural pool, an ideal place for unforgettable photographs.
The medieval bridge of Moscarales : It stands to the west of Boltaña, in a spectacular natural setting. It is believed to date back to medieval times and was part of the network of roads that connected different towns in the area. Although it is no longer used as it once was, its beauty and location continue to captivate those who visit it.
HOW TO GET TO BOLTAÑA
Getting to this charming town in Huesca is easy and well worth the trip. From Zaragoza you can take the A-23 towards Huesca, then continue on the N-260, which connects directly to Boltaña. The journey offers spectacular landscapes, ideal for those who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
From Huesca it takes an hour and a half by car taking the A-23 and continuing along the N-260. For those who prefer public transport, there are regular buses from the main cities in Aragon to Aínsa, a nearby town, from where Boltaña is easily accessible.
Walking through the streets of Boltaña will make you reconnect with nature and immerse yourself in medieval times. From its cobbled streets to the impressive views of its castle, every place in this place deserves to be discovered.