DESPOBLADO DE PEÑA

This is a surprising route, because you go deep into the mountains, in an inhospitable place, and suddenly the deserted town of Peña appears perched on a huge rock. In 1950 there were three families left in the town, the last inhabitant of all being a Belgian hermit who took refuge there until 1962 in search of solitude. Peña was a powerful castle in defense of the Kingdom of Navarra on its border with Aragon. We point out two routes, the first is harder and follows the course of the Cañada de los Roncaleses and the second is easier and shorter, suitable for all ages.

PRACTICAL TIPS

-To get to the starting point we leave from Sangüesa to reach Gabarderal, from where we take a narrow road that takes us to Torre de Peña, which is private property and as a sign indicates it cannot be passed by vehicle. So we will park on an esplanade next to the access and begin to walk along the road between trees that takes us to Torre de Peña.

-We present two routes, one follows the Roncaleses ravine, with steep slopes and if the day is hot, hard walking. The second follows the forest track to the desert itself, and is easy to follow.

-Peña is half abandoned, with the houses in ruins and the castle on top, of which there is barely a tower that cannot be accessed. The cemetery, with the tomb of the English aviator, is taking a detour before entering the grounds.

-We will return along a very clear path all downhill. In some sections we will find a fence, be careful with the barbed wire.