In Aragon, there are villages that refuse to disappear. Streets that had been engulfed by water have been filled again with life. One of those places is Lanuza, a small town of Alto Gállego who, after being almost uninhabited by the construction of the Lanuza reservoir in the 70s, has resurfaced as a reference for tourism in the Aragonese Pyrenees. Today, their stone houses and slate roofs receive visitors again seeking tranquility, landscapes of postcard and living culture.
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The case of Lanuza is an example of how a people can reinvent themselves without losing its essence. Thanks to the neighborhood struggle and cultural initiatives such as the Pyrenees South Festival, this corner of Huesca has managed to transform its abandonment history into a powerful tourist magnet.
What to see (and do) in Lanuza
Visit charming villages near Lanuza
What to see (and do) in Lanuza
Historic center
The historical center of Lanuza is small but full of charm. Walking through its cobbled streets, between houses of traditional Pyrenean architecture, is like going back in time. Restored with care, the homes wear wooden balconies and stone facades that look at the reservoir, creating a story stamp. Do not miss the views from the square, one of the most photogenic corners of the town.
The historical center of Lanuza is small but full of charm. Photo: Aragon Tourism
San Salvador Church
The Parish Church of San Salvador is another essential places to see in Lanuza. Although its origin is medieval, the current temple has been carefully rehabilitated after years of abandonment.
Their tower and their surroundings serve as a point of reference and are the usual scenario of cultural events and celebrations. The location in front of the reservoir adds an unquestionable landscape value.
South Pyrenees Festival
The South Pyrenees Festival is undoubtedly the great revulsion that has put Lanuza on the international tourist map. Every summer, artists from all over the world act on a floating scenario in the reservoir, with the town and the mountains as a background.
The South Pyrenees makes Lanuza a symbol of culture in rural environments
This event not only energizes the local economy, but also makes Lanuza a symbol of culture into rural environments. Artists such as Manu Chao, Julieta Venegas, resident or Valeria Castro have climbed into the characteristic floating scenario of the festival, value the quality for which the event bets.
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Hiking routes
Nature lovers will find in Lanuza a perfect starting point for numerous hiking routes. From family walks to demanding ascents, the roads that start from the town travel Hayedos, Praderas and Cumbres overlooking the Lanuza reservoir and the Tena Valley. One of the most popular is the one that connects with Sallent de Gállego, ideal to complete a day discovering what to see in Lanuza and surroundings.
Visit charming villages near Lanuza
In addition to Lanuza, the Tena Valley houses other villages that are worth visiting. Sallent de Gállego, a few kilometers, is one of the most beautiful. Its medieval bridge, its Gothic Church and a wide gastronomic offer are the greatest tourist claims of the place, without forgetting, of course, the privileged environment in which the town is located.
They also highlight Panticosa, with their historical spa, and Tena Tramacastilla, perfect for those looking for routes on horseback or by bicycle. They are all part of the set of places to see in Lanuza and surroundings.
Where to eat in Lanuza
Although it is a small town, Lanuza has several options to eat well, especially in high season. In summer, some neighbors open temporary restaurants or terraces overlooking the reservoir where traditional Pyrenees dishes are served: crumbs, trout, lamb to the pastor or homemade desserts such as cottage cheese flan.
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You can also approach Sallent de Gállego, where there is more variety of bars and restaurants with zero kilometer products. So if you wonder where to eat in Lanuza, the answer includes good kitchen and landscapes that open the appetite.
Where to stay in Lanuza
The housing offer in Lanuza is limited, but very careful. There are several rural houses and tourist apartments that respect the aesthetics of the town and offer all the comforts. Many visitors choose to stay in hotels in Sallent de Gállego and enjoy Lanuza’s tranquility during the day.
If you are looking for a hotel in Lanuza, it should be reserved in advance, especially on key dates such as the South Pyrenees Festival or the summer bridges. Sleeping here is a unique experience, with a view to the turquoise waters of the reservoir and the starry sky of the Pyrenees.
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How to get to Lanuza
Getting to the town of Lanuza is part of the trip. It is located in the Valle de Tena, in the region of Alto Gállego, within the Oscense Pyrenees. From Huesca: Take the A-23 to Sabiñánigo, link with the N-260 and pass biescas, Panticosa, continue to Lanuza. The route lasts just an hour.
From Zaragoza, they are almost two hours of travel, although fate is worth it for the beauty that this town hides. There is also connection through public transport (interurban buses) to Biescas or Sallent de Gállego, and from there by taxi or rental car. During the festival, connections are reinforced and parking lots are enabled.
