Nature and hiking tourism has gained a growing prominence between those who seek to disconnect from the urban rhythm and connect with authentic landscapes. More and more travelers opt for rural getaways and the region of the Ribagorza It is the star when it comes to mountains since it is home to the Chinese wall Aragonese
Nestled in the municipality of Viacamp on the waters of the Canelles reservoir, this natural rock formation is known as the Chinese wall of Finals, due to its proximity to the abandoned municipality of that name. It is an impressive geological formation of the Oscense Pre -Pyrinean, the result of the folding and erosion of limestone rocks that rise vertically forming a wall of up to 840m in length and 60m high.
This natural wonder is located next to the medieval depopulated of finaltras and the remains of its ancient Romanesque hermitage, creating a landscape of overwhelming beauty and historical heritage in the Sierra del Montsec.
How to get to the Chinese Wall of Finestras, in Huesca?
Viacamp, beyond the Aragonese China Wall
How to get to the Chinese Wall of Finestras, in Huesca?
The best way to access the Chinese Wall of Finestras is from Estopiñán del Castillo, through a track that can be done, by bike or by off -road car. The route from this point has 12 kilometers of first leg, which can be somewhat expensive to walk and, although it can be done by vehicle, it is recommended that it be off -road or similar height.
The typical route part of the Penavera bridge, after about 5km per forest track suitable for high vehicles or 4×4 (low cars can have difficulties). With an approximate length of 14.5km, 425m of unevenness and easy-moderate difficulty, the path is well marked and culminates in a natural viewpoint with spectacular views of the reservoir and rock crest.
The best way to access the Chinese Wall of Finestras is from Estopiñán del Castillo. Photo: Aragon Tourism
The last meters even have metal staples and steel cable to facilitate access to the base or the hermitage of San Vicente, a Romanesque construction of the eleventh – XII century that is based on an old castle. This route is ideal to visit between spring and autumn, since it does not offer shade or sources, so it is recommended to carry abundant water and sun protection.
It is also possible to access the base of the wall in kayak or canoe during the months in which the level of the reservoir allows it. In addition, the path frequents hikers that combine nature, history and geology, making it a unique experience for all audiences: from families to lovers of adventure into Huesca.
Viacamp, beyond the Aragonese China Wall
Although the Chinese Wall of Finestras is the best known attraction of Viacamp, this municipality of Huesca It is also ideal to enjoy the best landscapes and environments of the Ribagorza region. Therefore, here we leave you a list of what to see and do in the town of Viacamp.
Viacamp Castle
One of Viacamp’s heritage icons is its castle, a cylindrical tower of the eleventh century that crowns the landscape from the top of a hill. Restored for your visit, it allows you to contemplate some impressive views of the Ribagorzana Noguera Valley, the Canelles Reservoir and the Pyrenees. Together with the tower, remains of wall and the Romanesque church of San Esteban are preserved, which was part of the same medieval defensive set.
One of Viacamp’s heritage icons is its castle, a cylindrical tower of the eleventh century that crowns the landscape. Photo: Aragon Tourism
Walking through this area is a direct immersion in the history of the Ribagorza. The Church retains original Romanesque elements and is surrounded by a privileged natural environment. In addition, in the surroundings is the hermitage of the Virgen del Congost, also of the eleventh century, which offers a quiet environment for contemplation. The whole set is part of the Viacamp nucleus, an excellent basis to explore this part of the pre -pyrineo.
Viacamp Castle, with its imposing cylindrical tower of the Century and former church of San Esteban, is open to the public for free and can be visited at any time of the year. Access is free and continuous, without restricted schedules.
Montsec Interpretation Center
Viacamp is also a gateway to the Montsec massif, an environment of great geological and landscape value. In the Montsec of L’Etall interpretation center, located in the Viacamp nucleus, visitors can know the natural history of this mountain range, its fossils, its fauna and its relationship with the human being over the centuries. It is an excellent starting point to understand the value of the environment before traveling on foot.
The center has explanatory, audiovisual panels and personalized attention, especially during the spring and summer months. In addition, from here several signaling hiking routes are based, both for walkers and for mountain bicycles (BTT). The objective is to value the geological richness of Montsec and promote sustainable tourism, respectful of the environment and with the traditions of the territory.
The Montfalcó catwalks
The most popular Viacamp path is the one that unites Montfalcó with the Congosto de Mont-Rebei through vertigo catwalks anchored to the rock. It is a route of about 8 kilometers (only one) that starts from the Montfalcó shelter, and crosses cliffs on the Canelles reservoir, hanging bridges and spectacular viewpoints. It is one of the most shocking roads of the Aragonese pre -pyrineo.
This is the most popular Viacamp path that has some vertigo catwalks anchored to the rock. Photo: Montfalcón catwalks
The experience is designed for hikers with good physical form, since some sections have steep stairs and high steps. However, it is suitable for families accustomed to mountain walking. The itinerary is part of the natural path of Montfalcó, perfectly marked, and is accessible from the Viacamp nucleus, where you can find tourist information and rural accommodation.
How to get to VIACMAP
From Saragossa
From Zaragoza, the best option is by private car. The journey lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes (around 180 km), taking the A-23 or A-22 to Monzón or Barbastro, and from there linking with the N-123 and the A-1605.
From Huesca
From the city of Huesca, the car journey lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes (about 125 km), following the A-22 highway to Barbastro and then taking the N-123 in the direction of Benabarre.
From Teruel
In the case of Teruel, the distance is considerably greater. The car journey exceeds 3 hours and 30 minutes (about 260 km), following the A-23 towards Zaragoza and then linking with the tracks to Barbastro and Benabarre.
