Murillo de Gallego Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich town of Murillo de Gallego in Spain with this comprehensive travel guide, including things to do, places to visit, transportation options and more.


Introduction to Murillo de Gallego

Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees, Murillo de Gallego is an idyllic town located in the Aragon region of northern Spain. Founded in the 10th century, the town’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved architecture and ancient landmarks. Its rustic charm and breathtaking natural beauty make it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, food lovers, and cultural travelers alike.

In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Murillo de Gallego, exploring its unique attractions, rich culture, and dazzling scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Murillo de Gallego

Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, you’ll find plenty of things to do and places to visit in Murillo de Gallego. From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, the town offers something for everyone. Here’s a list of some of the top attractions to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castillo de Loarre: One of the most preserved Romanesque castles in Spain, this ancient fortress dates back to the 11th century and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • San Salvador Church: A beautiful church built in the 16th century filled with rich Baroque artwork and statues.
  • Museo J. Vicente de Lucía: A small museum dedicated to the musical history of the town, featuring antique instruments and local music traditions.

Natural Attractions of Murillo de Gallego: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rio Gállego: The river flows through the town offering rafting, kayaking, and swimming opportunities.
  • Pyrenees Mountains: A hiker’s paradise, the Pyrenees Mountains are filled with numerous trails offering some of the most beautiful views in Spain.
  • The Mallos: A unique rock formation with great climbing and hiking opportunities and a breathtaking natural encounter.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Murillo de Gallego

For hikers and bikers, Murillo de Gallego offers countless trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the Pyrenees Mountains. Some of the most popular routes for hikers and bikers include:

  • The GR11: This long-distance trail traverses the Pyrenees from the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean, passing through Murillo de Gallego.
  • El Sendero de los Mallos: A 7km circular trail that takes you through the stunning Mallos rock formation and surrounding landscapes.
  • Camino de Santiago: The Pyrenean route to Santiago de Compostela passes near the town and is an excellent route for those looking for a longer trekking experience.

Best Things to Do in Murillo de Gallego: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Murillo de Gallego offers a variety of activities and tours throughout the year:

  • Rafting and Kayaking: Due to its location near the Gállego River, the town is famous for its rafting and kayaking opportunities.
  • Rock Climbing: The Mallos rock formation is an excellent destination for rock climbers and provides one of the most challenging routes in Spain.
  • Hot-Air Balloon Ride: With this unique opportunity, you can explore the incredible beauty of the Pyrenees Mountains from above.
  • Paragliding or Hang-gliding: The area is perfect for paragliders and hang-gliders, offering stunning views and an adrenalin rush.

Week-Long Itinerary for Murillo de Gallego

If you’re planning to stay in Murillo de Gallego for a week, there’s plenty to see and do. Here’s one suggested itinerary for your week-long stay:

Day 1: Visit the Castillo de Loarre and take a tour of the ancient fortress.

Day 2: Hike to the peak of Tozal de Guara and admire the breathtaking views of the Pyrenees Mountains.

Day 3: Explore the town center of Murillo and its quaint shops and cafes.

Day 4: Spend the day rafting or kayaking on the Gállego River.

Day 5: Take a day trip to the city of Huesca, located 40km from Murillo.

Day 6: Go rock climbing in the Mallos rocks, followed by a late afternoon hot-air balloon ride.

Day 7: Take a leisurely bike ride around the town and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Murillo de Gallego

Murillo de Gallego offers a unique culinary experience, with dishes featuring local ingredients and traditional Aragonese flavors. A must-try dish in the town is migas, a savory fried bread dish served with chorizo and other meats.

If you’re looking for a refreshing beverage, try the local wine made from the Somontano grapes, which are grown in the nearby vineyards. Craft beer lovers should taste the local Monkey beer, which is brewed in Murillo de Gallego.

Where to Stay in Murillo de Gallego: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Murillo de Gallego, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Albergue de Murillo: A budget-friendly hostel offering comfortable private and shared rooms.
  • La Casa de los Moyas: A stylish guesthouse located in the town center, offering spacious rooms and a warm atmosphere.
  • El Corral de Villacampa: A charming hotel featuring a garden and a terrace with stunning views of the Pyrenees Mountains.

What to Buy in Murillo de Gallego: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring back a piece of Murillo de Gallego with you, consider purchasing some local products and souvenirs. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • Olive oil: The region is famous for its high-quality olive oil, which is available at many of the shops in town.
  • Craft Beer: Monkey Beer is an excellent example of the growing craft beer scene in Murillo de Gallego.
  • Handmade crafts: Many artisans in the town create unique handmade items like jewelry, pottery, or wooden goods.

Local Culture and Customs of Murillo de Gallego

The people of Murillo de Gallego take pride in their unique culture, which is steeped in ancient traditions and customs. During the summer months, the town hosts a traditional fair, attracting tourists with authentic food, crafts, and cultural events.

Best Time to Visit Murillo de Gallego

The best time to visit Murillo de Gallego is during the summer months of June through September, where the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Murillo de Gallego

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Murillo de Gallego:

Do:

  • Try the local food: Flavours are an essential part of Murillo’s culture, so don’t miss out on the local cuisine.
  • Participate in local cultural events: The town hosts many cultural events during the summer months, offering visitors a glimpse of local culture and traditions.
  • Respect the environment: Outdoor activities are very popular in Murillo, so be sure to leave the sites in the same or even better condition than you found them.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Respect the natural environment, and don’t leave any trash behind.
  • Don’t ignore the local culture and traditions: Respect the local culture and customs by adhering to their etiquette, norms, and standards.
  • Don’t take any souvenirs from the natural environments: Some environments are protected, do not disturb the wildlife or take anything that does not belong to you.

Safety and Health

Safety in Murillo de Gallego

Murillo de Gallego is a safe town with very little crime. However, the outdoor activities it offers come with inherent risks, so be cautious when participating in them.

Health in Murillo de Gallego

There aren’t any major health risks in the town, so there are no additional vaccinations or medical checks that are required.

Getting to Murillo de Gallego: Transportation Options and Logistics

The nearby cities of Zaragoza and Huesca operate transportation options, allowing visitors to reach the town with ease.

Airports Near Murillo de Gallego

  • Zaragoza Airport: 100 km from Murillo de Gallego.

Bus Stations Near Murillo de Gallego

  • Huesca Bus Station: 42km from Murillo de Gallego.

Other Options

  • Car rental: available at nearby airports and in Huesca, visit myrentacar.com to compare prices and explore options.
  • Train: The nearest station is in Huesca, allowing visitors to access other parts of Spain.

How to Get Around in Murillo de Gallego

If you plan to explore the town, it is more convenient to get around by foot or bike. Rental cars are also available at nearby airports or in the city of Huesca.

Where to Go Next from Murillo de Gallego: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby towns and cities to visit from Murillo de Gallego, including the following:

  • Huesca: A historic city located 42km from Murillo de Gallego, offering ancient architecture and a vibrant cultural scene.
  • Zaragoza: Known for its impressive landmarks and monuments, Zaragoza is an excellent destination for a day trip, located 100km from Murillo de Gallego.

Conclusion

Murillo de Gallego is a unique destination in Spain that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re an adventure traveler or a culture enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This travel guide has hopefully provided you with the necessary information to plan your perfect visit to this amazing town.