Any Questions? Speak to someone with extensive knowledge of our walks and destinations.
Call 01799 513331 or enquire here or use the messenger service – bottom right.
Guided
June & September 2022
This holiday has been especially designed for intermediate walkers in search of handpicked medium and high level walks in the good company of others. The Pyrenees offers some of the most remote and wild walking of any of our destinations. Each day (except Thursday, your rest day) you will enjoy some of the best medium level walks in and around the Valle de Tena, returning to your accommodation base at the Hotel Sabocos in Panticosa.
All our walks are tried and tested gems and they include classic walks in both the Pyrenees National Park over the nearby border in France, as well as in the Ordesa & Monte Perdido National Park on the Spanish side. Our itineraries will regularly take in sections of both the GR10 and GR11. The holiday price includes 7 nights at Hotel Sabocos, buffet breakfasts, three course dinners with wine (6 nights), packed lunches (5 days), return transfers to and from Zaragoza – and all transport to and from the walks.
On a Collett’s Pyrenean Classics holiday, we do all the hard work, so you don’t have to. Booking is easy: choose your dates; contact us and we will confirm your holiday asap. Then relax and look forward to it, safe in the knowledge that every detail is taken care of – whether that be your airport transfers, hotel booking, packed lunches, daily transport to trailheads; or our comprehensive route notes and maps – its all covered !
26 June – 3 July 2022
25 September – 2 October 2022
Sunday to Sunday
£1,195
Single Supplement – £125
All Accommodation
7 nights in the 3* Hotel Sabocos, Panticosa
Breakfast each day
Packed lunch each walking day (5 days)
3 course evening meal, wine included
6 nights, not Thursday – your rest day
5 Guided Walks led by a qualified mountain leader
Transport to/from trailheads each walking day
Transfers to/from Zaragoza Airport or ‘Delicias’ Rail Station. Transfer times are based around the Ryanair flight from Stansted Airport to Zaragoza.
Flights & Insurance
Lunch, dinner, transport and activities
on your rest day – Thursday
All other drinks & snacks
Transfers to/from Zaragoza Airport or ‘Delicias’ Rail Station are included. Transfer times are based around the Ryanair flight from Stansted to Zaragoza.
Or arrive in Panticosa independently
See Travel Tab above
In uncertain times, booking with financial peace of mind is essential – as members of ABTA, our walkers have been doing this for over 23 years. In addition, our booking conditions are now more flexible than ever:
Nestled high in the Valle de Tena in the Alto Aragón region of Spain is the charming village of Panticosa, a labyrinth of traditional stone built houses lining narrow streets around a 13th century Romanesque church. It is a tranquil mountain village, which has retained much of its old world charm, whilst providing for the modern day visitor with a handful of shops, bars and other amenities including an outdoor swimming pool. There is an easy-going pace of life and there is a certain charm to sitting with a drink at the café in the village square watching the world go by.
Significantly, it is surrounded by Spain’s westernmost concentration of 3000m peaks, each dotted with azure blue lakes and punctuated by high mountain cols. This makes Panticosa a superb springboard from which to venture out into this beautiful region. In July and August, a modern cable car whisks walkers and mountain bikers up to the delightful Asnos and Sabocos Lakes and to within a whisker of the imposing north face of the Sierra de Tendeñera.
Nearby, higher up in the cauldron of mountains, which tower above the village, is the historic Baños de Panticosa, a spa village fed by six mineral springs and said to have been frequented by the Roman emperor, Tiberius. We have chosen Panticosa as our base because it provides superb access to the GR11 with short journey times each day to the trail and Hotel Sabocos offers our guests a genuine ‘home from home’ to return to each evening
If you are a high level walker, we look forward to helping you explore the exhilarating trails that will make for some unforgetable days out. From Panticosa you can access many local classics, such as the awe-inspiring Ordesa and Monte Perdido UNESCO National Park, the Pic du Midi d’Ossau Circuit and the stunning peaks and trails above the Valle de Tena.
Panticosa lies in the glacial Valle de Tena, which is surrounded by a ring of high mountains. To the south-west and south-east, the vast limestone walls of the impressive Sierra de la Partacua and the Sierra de Tendeñera rise abruptly, whilst looming large to the north-west and north-east are the mighty granite peaks of the frontier ridge.
Consequently, the Valle de Tena boasts an entertaining mix of landscapes: from the relatively flat pasture lands of the Col du Pourtalet with its gentle meandering streams; past the striking crimson rocks of the Vértice and Pico de Anayet, both the remains of old volcanic chimneys, standing guard over the idyllic Ibones de Anayet lakes below; on to the great mountain lakes of Brazatos, Azules, Bachimaña and Respomuso and the high granite peaks and rocky cols in and around Balaïtous and the Picos del Infierno.
Whilst predominantly the domain of the mountaineer, the Sierra de Tendeñera and Sierra de la Partacua, provide spectacular backdrops to our easier walks, which traverse their lower slopes and feature gentle cols, secondary peaks and beautiful lakes, such as the enchanting green blue lakes of Sabocos and Asnos high above Panticosa and the exquisite Lake Escarra, best viewed from the Collado del Pacino.
Just ten minutes away by car is Sallent de Gállego, which nestles quietly below the looming Peña Foratata, and Baños de Panticosa. Both these villages represent the start and end of a range of scenically splendid walks along scarcely trodden paths, which enticingly disappear deep into the rugged upper valleys of the range.
The Pic du Midi d’Ossau stands just on the French side of the range and is probably the most recognisable peak in the entire Pyrenean range. From miles around you can see the distinctive twin peaks of volcanic rock, which rise dramatically above a small collection of lakes and high meadows.
The Pic du Midi is one of the classic landmarks of the Pyrenees and, with its numerous walking itineraries, it is a magnificent area to explore on foot. You can access this from Panticosa on a short drive that takes you across the border at the Col du Pourtalet, where the Valle de Tena meets the Vallée d’Ossau.
We believe the best view of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau is from the Lacs d’Ayous and the Refuge d’Ayous.
Ordesa is home to the uniquely dramatic rock cornices known as ‘fajas’, high altitude balconies of stone formed over millions of years. Along them cling sensational walking routes of varying exposures, providing walkers at every turn with adrenalin fuelled views of the canyon and its many magnificent fairytale waterfalls.
Any Questions? Speak to someone with extensive knowledge of our walks and destinations.
Call 01799 513331 or enquire here or use the messenger service – bottom right.
The Pyrenees is rich in great day walks, many of which have become favourites of ours. Please note that what follows below is the intended itinerary but the exact programme may differ slightly, maybe as a result of trail conditions or adverse weather.
We will collect you from Zaragoza and transfer you to the delightful Hotel Sabocos, our base in Panticosa, high in the Valle de Tena. This will be your ‘home from home’ during your stay. After a quick check-in, you can settle into your room. Dinner will be served in the restaurant at 8pm, over which a short briefing will take place.
10.5km, 500m ascent/descent
A fabulous ‘first day’ walk just a short drive from Panticosa in the heart of the Valle de Tena, to help you find your walking legs, orientate yourself and settle in to your week in the Pyrenees. This circular walk boasts extensive views from Punta del Pacino, summit of the Valle de Tena, the imposing Sierra de la Partacua and the numerous 3000m peaks, which make up the Franco‐Spanish border ridge north of the vibrant village of Sallent de Gallego.
14.5km, 600m ascent/descent
An excellent circular walk to the picturesque and idyllic lakes of Ibones de Anayet, which are nestled below the deep crimson slopes of the Vértice de Anayet. You will enjoy amazing views across the abyss-like ‘Canal Roya’ and the frontier ridge towards the iconic Pic du Midi d’Ossau in France
Camino de las Cascadas – up to 19km, 500m ascent/descent
A classic walk through delightful forests of beech, pine and fir along the floor of the Ordesa canyon visiting its many magnificent waterfalls. Idyllic riverside picnic spots await you in the open pastures near to the impressive ‘Circo de Soasa’ from where stunning views of the canyon’s 1,000m cliffs can be enjoyed. This is a ‘there and back’ walk, so its length and ascent/descent can be adjusted to suit.
Faja de Petazals – 12.5km, 600m ascent/descent
This spectacular balcony shelf walk along the northern edge of the Valle de Ordesa provides walkers with great views of the abyss valley below, the near vertical southern slopes of the canyon, and the impressive and ‘off the beaten track’ Circo de Cotatuero.
You are free to have a well-deserved lie-in (breakfast is served until 10am) and to spend the day relaxing in Panticosa. Perhaps take a dip in Panticosa’s outdoor pool (open in July & August), or visit the 4* spa at Baños de Panticosa. We can also give you details of a couple of short walks from the door. On Wednesday night we can help you arrange taxi shares should you want to visit the spa or explore the Valle de Tena on a longer self-guided walk.
15km, 700m ascent/descent
This is a classic ‘must-do’ Pyrenean walk, taking in numerous lakes and enjoying superb views across to the iconic Pic Du Midi d’Ossau and Pic Casterau. This walk provides wonderful changes of scenery from a wooded forest of beech to open flatlands with a meandering river. For those in search of a shorter walk, there is also the option to complete a ‘there and back’ walk to Refuge Ayous, nestled above one of the lovely lakes on this circuit.
12km, 700m ascent/descent
A high altitude walk to the Embalse Bachimana to finish on, which offers stunning views across Banos de Panticosa and towards the Sierra de Partacua whilst also providing walkers with an insight into the remote mountain wilderness that symbolises the Spanish Pyrenees. Refreshment awaits you at Refugio Bachimana perched high in the Spanish Pyrenees with stunning views.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and time to pack. The transfer to Zaragoza will depart at around 1pm after a tapas style farewell lunch.
Download Factsheet
Pyrenean Classics 2022
Any Questions? Speak to someone with extensive knowledge of our walks and destinations.
Call 01799 513331 or enquire here or use the messenger service – bottom right.
Our main base and “home from home” is the delightful 3* Hotel Sabocos which is a short stroll from the village centre. It is run by our good friends, Abelardo and Pia, who we have been working with for 12 years now, and who go to great lengths to ensure you are happy and comfortable. Indeed, it is rare to see them without a friendly, accommodating smile and this epitomises the warm and welcoming character of the hotel. You are certain to enjoy its relaxed and stress-free atmosphere.
The hotel provides modern, comfortable and immaculately clean accommodation in en suite bedrooms, many with balconies enjoying absorbing mountain views.
You are sure to love its spacious first floor lounge, where each evening (except Wednesdays) we hold Office Hour. This room characterises the warm hospitality you can expect here – lots of comfy armchairs and sofas arranged in cosy alcoves; bookshelves, chess and card tables; and french windows to a large terrace with majestic views. It is the perfect place to relax with a book or to sit with friends over a post-walk drink. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
The hotel’s café-bar opens onto a sun-drenched terrace with views to the stunning cliffs of the Sierra de la Partacua. This is often the first port of call for returning walkers in need of refreshment! In the hotel’s pleasant dining room guests of Collett’s enjoy together a delicious (typically Spanish) three course dinner (with wine included) six nights a week – not Wednesdays.
Any Questions? Speak to someone with extensive knowledge of our walks and destinations.
Call 01799 513331 or enquire here or use the messenger service – bottom right.
On a Collett’s walking holiday you travel to us independently.
You can arrange your travel now or after you have booked your holiday. Please contact us if you need help or advice. Most guests fly to Zaragoza and join the complimentary Collett’s transfer to Panticosa. Others drive from the UK or arrive by public transport. The choice is yours. Either way, you will be warmly welcomed on your arrival.
Transfers between Zaragoza Airport or Delicias Rail Station and Panticosa at the start and end of your holiday are included. Zaragoza has flights from London Stansted with Ryanair. The rail station has fast trains roughly every hour from both Madrid and Barcelona.
Pick Up Times
If you arrive on the Sunday into Madrid or Barcelona and can’t get to Zaragoza in time for 12:15, contact us and we can probably arrange a later transfer.
AVE Trains that link well with our transfers are:
Depart Barcelona 10:00, arrive Zaragoza 11:42
Depart Madrid 10:30, arrive Zaragoza 11:45
Drop off Times
Trains that link in well with the drop off times are:
Depart Zaragoza 11:46, arrive Barcelona 13:15
Depart Zaragoza 11:45, arrive Madrid 13.17
Please note train times can vary depending on the dates but these train times usually run every Sunday.
Approx. €200 each way for up to 8 people
Please contact us to book with as much notice as possible.
This affords you complete flexibility during your stay and on your days of travel. It also allows for scenic drives and visiting places of interest at leisure. Free parking available. Scroll down to ‘Car Hire’ below for a quote
Relax and unwind on a Brittany Ferries crossing to Northern Spain (24 hours) from Portsmouth or Plymouth
Allow 4 -5 hours from Bilbao by car.
10% Discount available with Brittany Ferries – contact us for details.
Free parking available.
Fly-driving is popular and most of our guests choose this option. Having a car in the mountains gives you complete flexibility during your stay and also on your days of arrival and departure.
Collett’s have teamed up with AutoEurope so that you can search the web for car hire quotes from all the big name brands (as well as some of the lesser known local suppliers), at some of the most competitive prices available anywhere on the internet.
We have also teamed up with Worldwide Insure who can offer you Excess Reimbursement Insurance from only £2.50 per day, click here to find out more.
You do not need an International Driving Permit to drive in any EU and EEA country, or Switzerland, for stays of up to 12 months. For more information see www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit
Any Questions? Speak to someone with extensive knowledge of our walks and destinations.
Call 01799 513331 or enquire here or use the messenger service – bottom right.
Please contact us on +44 1799 513331 or email an enquiry here if the content below leaves you with any unanswered questions.
Your own Collett’s Portal – Soon after you book your holiday, you will have access to your own online portal, via which we provide everything you need to know in the run-up to your holiday: packing suggestions, arrival instructions etc. You can also upload information to your portal, such as dietary requirements, special requests and travel details. We want you to hit the ground running when you arrive at the start of a plain-sailing and memorable holiday experience.
Terrain – way-marked paths which can be steep, rocky and loose underfoot. Some short sections are very steep and may be considered by some to be exposed. Previous hiking experience, surefootedness, a good head for heights and a good level of fitness are essential. If you are in any doubt whether this holiday is suitable for you, please call the office on 01799 513331 or email an enquiry here and we will be happy to discuss the route in more detail with you.
Breakfast & Dinner – breakfasts in Hotel Sabocos are generous and buffet-style and you will definitely leave each morning feeling refuelled. Dinner is ordered from a set menu, usually with at least 2 choices for each course. Expect typically local cuisine, ideal for days out on the mountain. For vegetarians and other dietary needs, there will be less choice and variation, but every year it gets better.
Your Midweek Rest Day – Thursday is our day off in the Pyrenees, a midweek rest day for you. There is no guided walk. Breakfast is served as normal. Dinner is not provided and guests have an opportunity to eat out locally. Our team will be happy to propose a local restaurant and make a booking on your behalf, if invited to do so.
Transport during your holiday – This is arranged by Collett’s as necessary and included in the price of your holiday.
And finally…
Special Dietary Requirements & Severe Allergies – It is important you tell us about any special dietary requirements (vegetarian, gluten free etc.) when you book your holiday. Please only tell us about requirements, not preferences, as most hotels, particularly smaller establishments, can only cater for essential requests. If you have a ‘severe food allergy’ that represents a health threat of any sort, we strongly recommend that you are carrying the necessary medication during your holiday with us.
Walking Holiday & Travel Insurance – We recommend you buy a good insurance package at the time of booking (or certainly prior to purchasing flights or booking ferries etc.), so that you are covered in the unlikely event of you having to cancel for an ‘insurable’ reason. For more information on Walking Holiday & Travel Insurance – Click here
General Information – Queries relating to passports or visas should be directed to the Spanish embassy on 020 7235 5555 or https://www.exteriores.gob.es
For general information on healthcare whilst travelling, visit www.bit.ly/HealthcareAbroad
For pre-travel information visit www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo
Or use the ABTA information line on 020 3117 0599 or visit www.abta.com
Any Questions? Speak to someone with extensive knowledge of our walks and destinations.
Call 01799 513331 or enquire here or use the messenger service – bottom right.
We wanted a holiday in the mountains at a time of year when there would be a good range of flowers in bloom. We liked the idea of moderate walking in view of our ages and levels of fitness. The hotel was very good and the owners were friendly and helpful. Your team of "guides" were excellent, although we walked only with the two Claires.
The staff were fantastic and made the holiday. The fact that you could decide your own degree of involvement in group activities and doing your own thing, with advice from the team, was great. We would love to come with you again but unfortunately we have been to all your other destinations so may have to wait until you have new destinations before we come again. We'll definitely recommend y (...)
Family connection but really impressed with the set up - Office hour a great idea - Reps really welcoming and professional. Went above and beyond, even giving up day off to entertain other guests one evening.
This was our 6th trip with Colletts and we were not disappointed. The Pyrenees were amazing and the organisation was up to their normal high standard. If your looking for a challenge then this is it.
We have had the most wonderful holiday walking the Pyrenean Peaks.
Cat and her team were all terrific and enthusiastic and keen to help us enjoy the Pyrenees as much as they do.
We certainly benefitted from their knowledge of the walks. It is impressive that they go and explore other walks/peaks on their day off.
Thank you very much indeed!
I wholeheartedly recommend this trip. The walks were varied & were challenging without being overwhelming. The scenery was breathtaking. Hotel Sabacos was comfortable & friendly & the evening meals were excellent, often local specialities & all made from scratch. It was a pleasure & delight to be looked after by Sandy, Jo & Ollie who worked so hard to ensure our group got the most from our s (...)
The flexible start & finish dates meant we could combine a walking holiday with some time elsewhere in the region. Having never been on a walking holiday we liked the fact that we could choose the level of walk to suit our capabilities.
All four staff were really great – well informed, good company, and able to motivate two normally less than enthusiastic teenagers! Been with you to the Dolomites and had a great time! We all had a fantastic time - please pass on our thanks to Will, Remy, Claire and Clare for being such lovely hosts!
We find your knowledge about the accommodation and local area invaluable and the flexibility offered to put accommodation on hold whilst we organise other holiday arrangements extremely helpful.
We received a warm welcome and the added bonus for us was that we met Will, Claire and Remy whilst we were at Haus Valentin earlier in the season and it was great to see them again.
The room for of (...)
We left the hotel at 10am which meant we were at the airport at midday. Our flight did not leave until 5pm. We were the only people in the airport for a couple of hours! Perhaps leaving the hotel could be made a bit later for later flight times if it were possible or at least giving warning that this would happen at the time of booking.
Your resort staff are the icing on the cake! Fantasti (...)
We were welcomed extremely warmly by Will – who couldn't have been more helpful. All 4 Members of staff (Will, Claire, Clare and Remy) were friendly, enthusiastic, helpful, careful and professional at all times. They were superb and we would like to thank them
Our second great holiday with Collett's (Pyrenees). Lots of positives - great hotel, great food, superb walks - but most praise is due to the fantastic hosts. They did a great job showing us the way on walks but also brilliant at entertaining our 14 year old son. Jack in particular stood out but all the hosts were lovely. We are already planning our next Collett's holiday.
Many things make this trip outstanding. The tricky but enjoyable central sections of the GR11, the mountains, the lakes, the marmots, the accommodation, food & wine. The group size of eight clients and four Collett's staff (I understand this is normally three) was also perfect. However the biggest single factor that made this trip outstanding was the Collett's staff - Flee, Jo, Olly & Sandy (...)
Booked with you before and always had a good time previously. I don't know where you manage to get your staff from but they are the friendliest, funniest, most helpful and relaxed group of people we've ever walked with. Thank you Ollie, Jo, Sandy and Flee for an amazing holiday.
Collett's was a recommendation from a colleague who had visited both Panticosa and Picos. In resort staff member (Ric) greeted us and made sure we had everything we needed. He was friendly, helpful and professional as well as being very knowledgeable.
Thank you to the great staff that made our week brilliant - Ric, Sam, Amanda and Caitlin - and of course the closely David at dinner!!
An excellent stay at El Fondon Appartment - Collett's staff were friendly and welcoming. Their advice for walking was informative and useful for our needs.
We thought that the information provided was fantastic, maybe you could let people know that there is washing up liquid, laundry powder etc. provided in the self catering units and to really emphasis that you need to bring towels.
I know it's hard to include photos of everything but a photo of how great the self catering unit is would be good. thanks for dealing with questions in such a quic (...)
The tapas lunch was lovely and an excellent way to meet up with some of the fellow walkers going on the GR11. Very welcoming and a nice touch. As we were on the GR11 week we didn't attend the normal office hour. However every evening before dinner Hanaa and Bevan went through the route for the following day, handing out maps when required. This worked very well. Have been with Collett's befo (...)
Your Collett's hosts were great as always - very knowledgeable and helpful and good fun. Dominic was mature and measured beyond his years and his brother was great company.
Thoroughly enjoyable experience. Office Hour was a rally positive feature as were the shared tables for meals. Collett's and hotel staff were outstandingly friendly and willing to help.
Good reputation and do just what we wanted to get to know walks and to have some independence - We have a property in France and wanted to explore the Pyrenees..and this did just that, giving us some knowledge of the area and a chance to do our own thing too. excellent , mature staff, who worked hard and developed a good understanding of our requirements.
My third walking holiday, been ski ing with the family with colletts out of Arraba many times, the formula is just right, going to Corvara for christmas, we know what to expect and as important don’t have to organise athing
Jack and Alice were old friends from Haus Valentin in February. Their care, patience, constant good humour, friendliness and helpfulness were truly outstanding: it was a great pleasure and reassurance to have them hosting the GR11 walks. The first rate quality of the young staff is always the key to the success of Collett's holidays in my opinion and these two (and I believe the other two) w (...)
User friendly website and easy to navigate. When registering prior to holiday everything worked! Check List was very handy. Printing out the A-Z information at home used a lot of ink! Having found Collett's on the internet, my wife & I were impressed with our entire dealings with the company - from receiving a return call to our initial enquiry on a Saturday afternoon through to easy regist (...)
The GR11 Hike was challenging, as I wanted, and was truly amazing. Joe and Rachel looked after us in a very relaxed way, became part of the team, but did everything needed.
I'll be looking for my next Collett's walk soon
Thank you
We liked the flexibility of group or non group walks and how many days you could book plus the location. Staff went out of their way to indicate if the trail had any unusual terrain that might make people uncomfortable. Guides were so personable at dinner. So interesting to talk with both at dinner and walks. We only went on one walk on our own. We thought the route could have used some more (...)
The Pyrenees were stunning. Everything was well organised and thought out. The hotels were great. The Colletts staff were wonderful especially Jack. We've already booked another Colletts holiday for next year.
First time I’d used this type of holiday and was not disappointed. Everything ran on rails from start to finish. The walking was spectacular and the views amazing, even in the snow! Accommodation was spot on with great food and comfortable sleeping arrangements.
The maps and route guides made things very easy and still gave you enough latitude to do your own thing at times.
As an intr (...)
This was our fourth Collett's holiday, and easily equaled our stay in the Dolomites, which I had thought the best walking holiday we'd had. The accommodation and meals were excellent, and the hotel staff were wonderful, even meeting us at our 3am arrival. What really made the difference though were Ric, Mandy, Sam and Caitlin. Although a diverse group they perfectly complemented each other. (...)
We had previously found out about the Dolomites holidays and suggested this type of holiday for our friends who were convening from different countries. Spain was the location of their choice. We and our friends had a great holiday in a spectacular location and we learned a lot about Alpine flora.
We enjoyed interacting with other guests and got to learn their names. On the last day, anothe (...)
It may of been nice to participate in a few more harder walks, however the group staying in Panticosa were a really good group to go out walking with each day, so it was a brilliant week.
The 4 four Colletts staff in the resort were a pleasure to meet, I would like to take the opportunity to wish all 4 all the very best in whatever they go on to do next.
Because I had been with Colletts ma (...)
We have had good holidays on previous trips. The flexibility of dates and types of walks suits us.
A really lovely week in which to celebrate our anniversary. Our second holiday with Collett's and we are currently planning our third. Special thanks to Henry, Becky and Keith for their care and professionalism. Like MacArthur...We shall return !
The four staff at Panticosa were wonderful, and we greatly appreciated their support, advice and hospitality. They are an excellent young team, and a real credit to the organisation. They were great company, but also knowledgeable, caring and sensitive and they worked very hard to make sure the walks were suitable for everyone.
We had an excellent holiday and feel very satisfied with the ex (...)
The four staff at Panticosa are a terrific advertisement for everything that is good about Colletts. Ric, Sam, Caitlin and Amanda were great value - professional, knowledgeable and patient (very important since none of us were in the first flush of youth.) They're a good team and made the holiday that little bit special.
Sam was the perfect host - greeting us and giving us all the information we needed to begin our holiday! All our guides were simply outstanding - with superb social skills, great sense of humour, solicitous for the comfort and well being of every member of the party, and adept at choosing walks suitable for the general ability level of each group of guests.
I would recommend Collett's in a h (...)
My friend and I had a great time hiking in the Pyrenees with walk hosts provided by Collett's and other guests. The location was good and the hiking options were plentiful.
Your team in the resort where excellant. They couldn't do enough for us. I didnt take any walking poles but found I needed some. They where happy to lend me theirs for the whole during of my stay. I was very grateful for this. As we didnt have any transport they offered us a lift to the supermarket/spa if we wanted to go. They all made the effort to get to know us and it was a pleasure spend (...)
Although your staff always announce that they are not qualified guides etc the preparation and training your staff receive for the specific area they work in (as opposed to general training most tour leaders receive) is much superior to what I have encountered with other companies offering mountain walking. We chose Collett's because of the combination of guided walks and supported independe (...)
Many thanks for a wonderful trip to the Pyrenees. We only stayed a week, doing hard walks every day, and felt exhausted when we came home. Next year we will try 2 weeks and have a few lazy days in between the hard ones.
I had a great week in the Pyrenees with Colletts. The staff were totally amazing and great company. There were plenty of flowers to be found at each site that had been carefully chosen to provide the enthusiast with different varieties.
Panticosa is fantastic and the Valle de Tena is so beautiful. the welcome at the hotel was warm and office hour was informative and interesting. the staff in the hotel couldn't have been more accommodating and friendly The walks we did were well guided and just super. We would love to come again for longer. One tiny negative about the hotel was that one of our rooms, on the top floor in the (...)
Great location and wonderful walking – we had a great time.
Our car broke down on the drive down through France so we missed a day. The Collett’s staff at the resort negotiated with the Hotel and offered a 1-day deferred start if we wanted.
Hotel and food were excellent – always 3 options available on the menu with a number of local dishes.
Walking in Odessa and round the Pic (...)
Office hour worked really with with whole family agreing the walk the night before. Everyone then knew what wa expected the next day so everyone got on with it without questioning it. This was a really important aspect to the holiday which we all liked and helped make it such a success. Well done for setting it up that way. We aso liked the chance to meet the other guests that we would walk (...)
Hannah went above and beyond the call of duty providing freshly baked goodies almost daily – very welcome!
The formula of providing optional 'guided' walks daily combined with flexible arrival and departure days ensures a very sociable atmosphere in which to enjoy some fabulous settings.
The Collett's team was outstanding as usual. You couldn't ask for better hospitality.
Everyone in the office was very helpful, especially as we added another person to our ferry ticket and then had to change our date of arrival in Panticosa by a day. Nothing was any problem.
Great holiday and we would love to return! Thank you!
The staff in both centres were excellent and were very skilled in making sure everyone was included and all ages were catered for at mealtimes, there company and knowledge was excellent in both resorts,however we would add that the staff in the Picos were outstanding, difficult to put your finger on the reason but they worked very well as a team and provided outstanding hosting skills. we wi (...)
Dear All, I feel that I must email you to say what a wonderful time we had on our holiday last week in Panticosa. The hotel was excellent, the food good and our hosts and their staff ever helpful. Jo, Tom, Sam and Cat were delightful young people and a great credit to you. Nothing was too much trouble and their company was truely enjoyable. Please convey our thanks to the team and wish them (...)
Your staff are superb. Especially Joanna and Sam.who we saw most of. Very knowledgeable, helpful and full of enthusiasm. Your training and choice of staff is first class. I have been on a Colletts holiday in the Dolomites, and I booked my sister and brother in law on a holiday in The French Pyrenees . I visited them there and thought it was lovely. I feel Colletts is an ideal company for peo (...)
We stayed in a family group in Hotel Sabocos in Panticosa. Lovely village, lovely hotel, lovely walks and best of all, Collett's team, Tom, Jo, Cat and Sam: really nice people with great local knowledge. All the other guests we spoke to seemed to be as pleased as we were. The option of organised walks or self-guiding gives plenty of scope, and the loan of maps is very helpful. There is no an (...)
You came up quickly on the website page. Most of all though when I rang you was the excellent quality of your greeting; your knowledge and friendliness. I made my mind up immediately following this conversation. I also want to congratulate you on the quality of your staff in the Pyrenees. Tom, Jo, Sam and Cat were excellent. Friendly, intelligent, humorous and knowledgeable. They made the holiday.
We had a lovely week with an excellent team of Rick, Amanda, Sam and Caitlin. The Collett's team went out of their way to make sure everyone enjoyed their walking and got the most out of the holiday. Their friendly professionalism and sociability really helped. Magnificent scenery and weather thank you!!
We have used Colletts before and have always enjoyed our holidays with you. They are well managed and enjoyable with friendly, professional staff. The team in the Pyrenees were always available to help with anything. Thanks again for a wonderful, memorable holiday.
Another fantastic holiday great hotel great food. Joe sandy and ollie were a credit to Collett’s thank you once again.
I had a lovely time with 3 great hosts.
We had quite a small group of about 6 of us stayed in a lovely hotel, full of character called Hotel Sabocos in Panticosa.
We did different types of walks every day and it was just simply fab! I would be back here again next year to do another Collett's holidays.
Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed my recent holiday with Collett's - the walk organisers Jo, Ollie and Sandy went out of their way to help guests and were fun to walk with. The hotel Sabocos was of a very high standard and the staff there were very accommodating, even serving gazpacho on the last meal! Many thanks for making this week really enjoyable; I will be back.
Our first walking holiday and was concerned we were fit enough Person on phone very helpful. Our four mountain friends were excellent! First holiday of walking and intend to do it again. Flexibility as could arrive and depart when we wanted to... Really enjoyed the company of your young staff and the general camaraderie of the group was great fun
We were greeted at the resort by the Collett's team, who were very friendly and welcoming. Arrangements at Hotel Sabocos were all fine.David led the flower walks really well and he was very enthusiastic and encouraging - nothing seemed too much trouble - Some good friends of ours recommended Collett's to us. We were looking for flower walks and also some moderate to hard walking in the mount (...)
Words cannot fully describe what an amazing time both myself and my wife had with our recent holiday with Collett's.
We loved the mountains, Panticosa, Hotel Sabocos (wonderful team!), The exceptional guides Sandy, Ollie and Jo, the tractor train, the food, the cable car and our marvellous fellow guests/team Mark and Katie from Macclesfield. Many thanks for making this week memorable. We lo (...)
This is one of the best walking holidays I've had, the Pyrenees are a very striking mountain range and not to be missed.
The selection of walking routes were superb and a full day out in the fabulous mountain scenery. On our walks the companions were considerate to everyone's needs and very knowledgeable superb company as well. The office hours really set you up to understand the next days (...)
This is one of the best walking holidays I've had, the Pyrenees are a very striking mountain range a d not to be missed.
The selection of walking route's were superb and a full day out in the fabulous mountain scenery. On our walks the companions were considerate to everyone's needs and very knowledgeable superb company as well. The office hours really set you up to understand the next days (...)
We know that if Collett's have a base somewhere, it will be outstandingly beautiful, with top notch accommodation. Your staff are always very welcoming, extremely enthusiastic and interested in people. By the end of the week, we felt that we were walking with friends. Sam, Amanda and Caitlin were very helpful and were good at encouraging the less adventurous members of our party without maki (...)
We really enjoyed our week in the Hotel Sabocos. Particularly early in the season, with little open in the village and no lifts or public transport, it was good to have such a welcoming base with good meals and the access to walking information in the folders as well as the advice of the Collett's staff.
Thanks for the welcome pack, arriving to find milk, teabags and a teapot was really nice after a long journey. Online handbook was good, really helped us with our walks. The driving map we used was a bit out of date as they have built a motorway and changed some of the signs. Sometimes the walking maps could have done with a few landmarks especially walking across pasture but if you use the (...)
Best food ever. And David (waiter) lovely. The Hotel Sabocos owners incredibly kind. The routes are not as well marked here (vs. Dolomites, for example), so we did not feel as comfortable branching out on our own. The laminates are helpful but one can still take the wrong path - often many - and cairns may have blown over.
Mountains were outstanding, everything we'd hoped for. Other partic (...)
Will, Claire, Clare and Remy all did a great job of describing the routes on offer each day, and how to get to the start, water sources, refreshments etc. It was "beastly" hot and they were great on details of shade vs sun exposure as well.
You have a great bunch of young people! I had met Will and Claire before, but they were all great, interesting to talk to, well informed, pleasant and h (...)
We have been to the two centres in Austria, and the old Arraba centre in the Dolomites in the last few years. Many thanks to the team at Panticosa (Jack, Rachel, Jo and Rebecca) for helping us to have a very enjoyable holiday. Nothing was too much trouble, and Jack was very welcoming even though we arrived at nearly midnight after a delayed fight from Stansted.
Excellent holiday. Great apartment. Lovely walks. Friendly and helpful guides.
Have recently returned from a wonderful 8 days in the Pyrenees with Collett's. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, and the organisation of the walks in those beautiful mountains was exceptional. Not only do they look after everyone and plan each walk well, they also managed to keep everyone amused maintaining great humour throughout some quite arduous walks whilst carrying packs conta (...)
Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed my recent holiday with Collett's - the walk organisers Jo, Ollie and Sandy went out of their way to help guests and were fun to walk with. The Hotel Sabocos was of a very high standard and the staff there were very accommodating, even serving gazpacho on the last meal! Many thanks for making this week really enjoyable; I will be back.
Great vacation at the Picos and the Pyrenees! We really enjoyed ourselves and the company.
Outstanding time in the Pyrenees! Our holiday in the Austrian Tyrol with Collett's last year was so successful we wanted to book a different location for a week's walking this year. Apart from the Austrian Tyrol which we visited last year, we have heard other guests speak very highly of the Dolomites as a Collett's destination.
This was our first walking holiday and we couldn't have picked a better destination! The Hotel Sabocos is very comfortable and Panticosa is a great base for walking in the Pyrenees. Jack and the team were extremely welcoming and took the time to answer everyone's questions and make recommendations for hikes suited more to our level. We found some of the walks a bit challenging but the vie (...)
Fabulous holiday. We were able to do a number of proper mountain walks with a real sense of seclusion, altitude and spectacular views. Saw a good variety of flowers and animals despite it being late August, the Pyrenees demand further exploration. The walk leaders were great company and making sure everyone was looked after and entertained!
Thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with the other g (...)
Although we were in self catering we took considerable advantage of the Dinner option and thoroughly enjoyed both the quality and variety of the food.
My family and I went on a Collett's Holiday in 2012 and always considered it one of their standout holidays.
Collett's have Flexibility and opportunity to have guided walking in our chosen area. We were well looked after and felt the staff were interested to share their knowledge and opinions with us.
"That was a cracking week, wasn't it? Can we go back next year?" - Pretty amazing praise from our 15 year old lad?!
I walked with you last year in Andalucia and was impressed by by the service and the set up.
Hotel staff/owners wonderful. Improved English translations of evening menu would help! Tuna in what appeared to be a vegetarian option would not suit a lot of people(personally not a problem). Staff extremely good, knowledgeable and helpful all round except for the following comment: A number of routes had not been walked by any of staff in resort and none of the staff had been there before (...)
The Collett's team were fantastic - very confident, considerate and helpful. A really good flag to be waving for employing your people.
I understand that walking to the slowest pace is important but when some members of the group have another agenda - ie flower spotting, they perhaps needed a bit of chivying along for the sake of the rest of the group.
Just back from a 10 day stay at Hotel Sabocos, Panticosa after our best Collett's holiday yet, having previously been to The Dolomites and Picos. The hotel accommodation, food and staff were excellent, especially David who made dinner times a delight.
The Collett's staff, as always, were brilliant and it was nice to be greeted on arrival by Ric who remembered us from 3 years ago. We did mos (...)
We needed to be warned about a closed road (the round Spain bike race was in the valley) and Rick succeeded in contacting us in time.
We like the flexibility of the holiday dates, the ethos of the company and the way the staff are so enthusiastic, helpful and informative. The Picos de Europa holiday was excellent last year. Friends who recommended Collett's stayed at the Dolomites centre.
We wanted an 'easy' holiday with transfers, hotels and varied walking. We certainly got this and more with great and attentive Collett's staff, a really good hotel and stunning walks in the central, highest part of the Pyrenees. The Colletts staff were excellent with their attention to detail, great humour and calm approach. A really good holiday and many thanks to all concerned.
The week on the GR11 in the Pyrenees was one of the best walking I have had recently. The two leaders - Rick & Caitlin ensured
that everything ran smoothly & that the whole group enjoyed their walking.
A cracking 2 weeks in the Pyrenees staying at the Sabocos Hotel, there is very little that can be faulted. The hotel was very comfortable and well located for all the walks in the region, the staff were friendly and the rooms cleaned daily and the food was excellent,plenty of breakfast to keep us going in the morning and not one duff meal from the 3 courses in the evening which were introduc (...)
Just enjoyed a fabulous week walking the Collett's classics. This is the 2nd time we have holidayed with Collett's (Dolomites in 2018). Great location, lovely hotel and excellent food. No trouble catering for one of our friends (Ray) in the party who was 100% gluten free.
The walking was fabulous and even on the one rainy day Collett's arranged a magical ride up into the mountains on a litt (...)
Outstanding service over email and phone. Extremely helpful with choosing an alternative location once we realised that our available dates were fully booked for the Dolomites.
Reps were fantastic – really friendly and professional.
One of the route laminates we used lacked a bit of detail but this was because the current cohort of reps had not had a chance to walk the route completely an (...)
We both enjoyed an excellent holiday at Panticosa. The hotel was comfortable and the food was excellent. The staff - Rich, Sam, Caitlin, Amanda and Cam - were all welcoming, considerate and great company.
Inevitably, I compared Panticosa with my previous experience at Haus Valentin. As I expected, this area of the Pyrenees does not offer quite the range of walking as the Dolomites. Probably (...)
As ever with a Collett’s holiday the staff were superb and the whole experience was fantastic. Lovely hotel (loved the menu translation each night) and really lovely walking made extra good by the friendly and helpful Cat, Monty, Cam and Abi. Beetroot sandwiches rule!
Fantastic holiday, with some of best high Pyrenees walking one could wish for. Daily walks gave plenty of options for extensions and deviations with detailed local knowledge of conditions, exposure and difficulty. Took the guess work out of route finding and made sure we had a great day on the mountain everyday, getting the very best out of the location.
Just returned from a fantastic stay with Collett's in the Pyrenees. The hotel was brilliant and the hotel staff so helpful, friendly and professional. Panticosa and the Pyrenees is fantastic. We did the self-guided option and the staff at Collett's - Jo, Olly and Sandy - were great hosts and gave us detailed advice which enabled us to do some really dramatic and challenging hikes. They also (...)
We are in the Pyrenees having a super time and just had a very special picnic ramble organised by Caitlin and aided by Rick.
1. Ric, Amanda, Sam and Caitlin were extremely friendly and knowledgeable, nothing was too much trouble. On one particular day I was the only client who wanted to do the organised walk, for safety reasons Ric organised Amanda to join us, as three is the minimum number for a walk. I had been prepared to do a walk on my own that day but Ric and Amanda we more than happy to ensure that the (...)
Very good holiday overall.
The walk leaders were very competent, friendly and professional. I couldn't fault them.
We were also very happy with the Hotel Sabocos.
Some of the walks were more strenuous than I had anticipated. I personally would have appreciated a greater choice of walks that were less demanding. Even the easiest of walks seemed to include challenging terrain/steep climbs and (...)
I stayed with you in the Dolomites last year and the hospitality of your "non-guides" was as outstanding as a remembered. Knowledgeable, friendly, accommodating and just always eager to help...but none of it forced. A great combination with excellent non-guides. choice of hotel was also excellent with equally friendly and accommodating staff. Why Collett's? I travelled with you last year and (...)
Previous year’s wonderful experience in the Dolomites. The customer service of your staff is what makes the hiking experience outstanding!
We were the youngest in the group, 39 and 40. This average age was 50, not that this was a problem - we quite liked this as the company and conversations were entertaining and insightful. As a young couple it gave us something to aim for in life. We did two hikes, I made a video of our first hike https://animoto.com/play/Yl3acRKhyasFJ41MWvOfkw
Bevan, our guide, was great. Kind Regards -Adrian
Arrival Comments: Despite arriving later than expected, we were immediately greeted, shown to our rooms, and invited to join the other guests,(already at dinner) as soon as we were able to do so. Your staff were so friendly and helpful, tailoring our needs to various route possibilities. They are very impressive young people. Entirely comfortable and happy with being "at your own risk", hope (...)
just returned from a great week in the company of Jack, Alice, Bevan and Hanna, all were first class hosts. there wasn't a day we didn't enjoy to the full which included a day driving around the southern area to see the vultures.
highly recommend this as an ideal way of being introduced to the Pyrenees.
make sure Jack finds you the elusive Black Woodpecker, he knows just where to look!
We arrived just after office hour had started. We were met by a staff member, shown to our room, left our cases and immediately proceeded to join office hour. Well under way by then. Routes for next day explained etc. However we did not receive an actual briefing re the hotel amenities and Collett's initial intro. We did ask lots of subsequent questions and did eventually have all the info w (...)
Another fantastic trip with Colletts walking GR11 in The Pyrenees. Our guides were Cam and Beth who were both very professional and informative. The five days walking consisted of hard, long treks but were just what we expected. Both hotels we stayed in were very comfortable and the food was really good. The night in the refuge was also a great experience.
Thanks guys for a most enjoyable week!
We're repeat customers and enjoy the holidays Collett's offer. Office Hour is one of the key strengths of Colletts. It works well and always addresses our needs. Your staff are always excellent, friendly and attentive. They seem to enjoy the work they do and it shows. They take an avid interest in their guests and consequently guests have a fabulous time. Delightful company and a very conviv (...)
The Collett's staff are always delightful young people, efficient, friendly and helpful and who have a genuine love of the mountains, which is transmitted to the guests. In addition to the stunning mountain scenery, the staff are what makes Collett's holidays so special.
We enjoyed the wide open spaces of the Pyrenees and the relative lack of other walkers compared to the Dolomites. Howeve (...)
Thank you yet again - great, enthusiastic and friendly staff
Panticosa - beautiful. Fab view from our appartment
We did 4 great long walks in 5 days - all different, our teenagers enjoyed the zip wire recommendation and a lovely spot reading books by a waterfall - thanks Jack for that
I thought your staff were excellent. We walked with Sam twice and he was entertaining and very knowledgeable on both occasions. His love of Outdoor Pursuits shines through and he made us feel extremely welcome. Jo was of course AWSOME - and Scottish! (She will get that!). Cat and Tom exuded a quiet confidence which meant it was so easy to listen to advice - which was accurate and relevant.
The staff went out of their way to welcome us even though it was their day off (Wednesday). The organisers (Alice, Jack, Hanaa and Bevan) were absolutely brilliant. They made a very special holiday extra special. Best Brochure plus holiday met our needs which were self-catering in the Spanish Pyrenees and to be able to decide whether or not to join in walks (which in the end we did all 7 day (...)
The organisers (Alice, Jack, Hanaa and Bevan) were absolutely brilliant. They made a very special holiday extra special.
Best Brochure plus holiday met our needs which were self-catering in the Spanish Pyrenees and to be able to decide whether or not to join in walks (which in the end we did all 7 days of our stay).
Thank you, we had a wonderful time
After seeing advert and calling the office I got a good feeling about our holiday in the Pyrenees from the conversation I had with the staff.I was confident I had made the right choice. The holiday was everything I was looking for and so pleased I used Collett's. I must also give great credit and praise for our guides Jo and Tom,both of whom were fantastic and really worked hard to make it a (...)
I very much enjoyed my stay in Panticosa. Rick and his team tried very hard to meet the needs of the whole group (which was very mixed in terms of age, ability and character) and to make everybody feel welcome. The hotel and food were excellent.
What a fantastic first experience with Collett's. Just back from an excellent week walking the High Pyrenees. Cat and her team were great, very professional, choosing the right routes on the right days to take best advantage of the weather. Hotel Sabocos exceeded expectations; very friendly. Being able to relax with a beer at the end of a long walk with new friends in comfortable surroundin (...)
The hotel staff and the four young people representing Colletts were very welcoming and made us feel at home. My friends invited me to join them and they had already used the company and venue before.
I really enjoyed this holiday and it was a great way to discover the area.
A week with like minded people, in the care of Collett's excellent staff and organisation, in the Pyrenees. What could be better?
We have walked with Collett's before in the Dolomites and thoroughly enjoyed that holiday and were attracted to the idea of the Collett's GR11 holiday in the Spanish Pyrenees too, as we'd never been there. It was fab!
Value for money? Definitely.
We were particularly taken with the care of us by the staff. On our last day, everyone's flights back to the UK were put back very late to 9pm (R (...)
It was great being welcomed by the staff and shown the hotel. I think it is just fine to make all of us responsible for ourselves. I did have a minor accident–fell and cut a finger–and it was all handled just fine. I was looking for walking holiday in the area and found excellent reviews on the web. Overall, this was a fantastic holiday! Thanks so much for making it happen.
The Colletts staff and the hotel staff were outstanding and made the holiday a great success for us. I would definitely recommend Collett's. I can't say enough good things about the staff. The formula suits us very well, where you can stay with the group or do something quite different (we went horseriding and canyoning while we were there).
Looking forward to coming back again!
As a long standing customer and previous visitor to the Pyrenees, the brochure and website were not important in our planning of the trip. Weather forecasting for the Pyrenees is not the best, but this is not the fault of the staff, they found the most accurate forecasts that they could. Given that the route marking in the Pyrenees is not to the same standard of the Dolomites, we thought the (...)
I was surprised that none of the 4 staff had been in Panticosa before - and hence were walking the walks with us for the first time too. Having said that, they were all very good.
You offered something that was different, at a good value. We liked the idea of there being 2 different walks per day, coupled with a decent size group of like-minded people.
A good holiday, and we will certainly (...)
Really enjoyed walks esp the new walks which Jo and Dan are finding as snow line was low
Have said to Jo she needs to find 6 new Mod/hard walks so we come back next year!!!! et again a really enjoyable holiday. Look forward to next year ???Dolomites or back to Panticosa?