6 mountain plans to escape the heat this summer

There is something special about summer in the mountains: the light, the purer air and the heat dissolves at altitude like mist at dawn. While the cities simmer amidst asphalt and noise, up there nature invites you to move, to cool down and reconnect. And the best part: you don't need to be an expert mountaineer or embark on an expedition to enjoy it.

This article brings together six mountain proposals - plus an extra, as a tip - that combine freshness, beauty and accessibility. These routes are designed for active families, couples looking for adventure without stress, and urbanites who need a getaway with real oxygen. And as relaxation is also part of the trip, you can check out these hotels close to each destination to complete the experience without hassle.

Aguas Tuertas Valley and the Ibón de Estanés (Aragonese Pyrenees)

At the head of the Hecho valley, the Valley of Aguas Tuertas looks like a fantasy set. Its shape, sculpted by the glacier and the waters, forms a natural corridor through which the Aragón Subordán river meanders. It is a simple route, ideal for families or beginners, where the hardest thing will be to resist taking photos at every turn.

From the end of the forest track in Guarrinza, you reach the bottom of the valley in just an hour and a half. From there, you can continue to the Estanés Lakea glacial lake located at an altitude of 1,800 metres, overlooking the Aspe massif. A perfect combination of alpine pastures, crystal clear water and majestic mountains. You can look for accommodation at Jaca or Hecho to enjoy the surroundings in peace and quiet. Nearby accommodation: Jaca area.

Ibón de Plan or Basa de la Mora (Gistáin Valley, Huesca)

They say that if you drink from its waters on the night of San Juan and have a pure heart, you will see the Mora appear dancing on the lake. Legends aside, the Ibón de Plan is one of the most photogenic spots in the Pyrenees. Surrounded by a cirque of sharp peaks, between pine and beech forests, it offers a unique experience without requiring great effort.

You can access it from the Saravillo track (if open), and walk for an hour to the lake. For those looking for a more active and less crowded approach, the trail from Plan goes through enchanted forests on a slightly more demanding route. For accommodation, the villages of Plan or San Juan de Plan are excellent bases.

Ordesa Valley up to Cola de Caballo (Ordesa and Monte Perdido NP, Huesca)

The Ordesa Valley is an icon of peninsular hiking. In summer, its high altitude microclimate, the shade of the beech forests and the coolness of the Arazas river make it a real oasis in the heat. From the Ordesa Meadowthe path to the Horsetail It runs between waterfalls, vertical walls and forests that seem to whisper.

The entire route, about 17 km round trip, is suitable for hikers with a minimum level of fitness. If you want to shorten it, the Gradas de Soaso offer an intermediate point with spectacular views. You can stay at Torla o Bielsa and explore the park from different access points. 

Ibones Azules from Panticosa (Huesca)

One of the most classic routes in the Aragonese Pyrenees starts at the Panticosa spa. The path climbs up the Argualas ravine towards the Ibones de Bachimañaand from there, after crossing a landscape of granite and high mountains, you reach the spectacular Ibones Azulesat an altitude of over 2,400 metres.

The route requires a bit of fitness (a 900 m difference in altitude), but there are no technical steps. The reward is deep blue glacial lakes, framed by the massif of Los Infiernos. Ideal for hikers with moderate experience. You can stay at the Panticosa spa or in Biescas. 

Cares route (Picos de Europa)

The The Cares Routebetween Poncebos (Asturias) y Cain (Leon)is a classic that surprises even those who already know it. Carved into the rock, the path runs along the gorge of the Cares River for 12 km that seem to be straight out of an adventure novel. Although there is a certain amount of traffic in summer, the shade of the walls and the proximity of the water keep it cool.

It has hardly any gradient and can be done in both directions or only in one, if transport can be arranged. The scenery of gorges, bridges and cliffs is unforgettable. You can stay at Arenas de Cabrales, Sotres o Caindepending on the access chosen. 

Vereda de la Estrella (Sierra Nevada, Granada)

Although we think of warmth when we talk about Andalusia, the Vereda de la Estrella is one of the coolest and shadiest trails in the south of the peninsula. It starts from Güéjar Sierra and follows the Genil valley along old mining roads, between chestnut, walnut and poplar trees.

Along the route you will discover views of the Mulhacén, the Alcazaba and the Veleta, without having to climb very high. It is ideal for a quiet and refreshing day, even in the middle of August. You can stay at Granada city or in Güéjar itself.

Puig Campana from Finestrat (Alicante)

On the wildest side of the Mediterranean Sea, the Puig Campana stands like a stone island in front of the sea. From FinestratThe route climbs up its shadier north face to an altitude of 1,406 metres, with views of the coast and the inland mountains.

Although the final climb is demanding, the route up to the Pouet pass offers a complete experience, with partial shade and a breeze even in summer. Ideal for early risers who want to reach the top before the heat. You can combine it with a few days at the beach on the coast.