August 25, 2008 -

We tried to take the first right as you head North out of Torla with a plan of getting right into the heart of Ordesa National Park, but soon realised that the bikes weren't cut out for this terrain. The track as it turned out to be climbs from 900 metres to 2200 in a few ks. 'See pictures 3 and 4 and you'll see why we had to turn back. There are also signs saying no vehicles but how strictly they enforce the law will for now remain unknown.

Plan B. We headed south out of Torla and took a left at Sarvise on the HU 631. We were hoping to find some smaller, less travelled roads into the picture postcard surroundings. We succeeded.

The 631 (they had the cheek to name it!) connects Sarvise and Escalona and really puts you in touch with nature. You won't be greeted with smooth fast tarmac, more so, potholes and gravel. For 35km! There are some nice twisty stretches and it is passable by road bike but I wouldn't risk dropping your new Busa on some of it's testing corners. But, we took the chance, came out the other end unscathed, and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

A big trailie would be in it's element on this road and I find myself offering encouragement to try it. You just might like it. An experience i'll remember for years to come.

Head South on the A-138 out of Escalona and spend the night in Ainsa drinking lager out of frozen glasses. And Hostal Ordesa is still only €40 per room per night inc bfast.