Hotel Saliecho ★★★★

Sitting in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees, the Hotel Saliecho looks out over sweeping mountains and lush countryside. Formigal, or Aramon Formigal as it is officially known, is an exceptional part of the Pyrenees, boasting beautiful panoramic views of the Tena Valley. In summer, the Spanish heat brings the region to life and bursts with colourful plants and an eclectic range of wildlife. In winter, the ski resort is a flurry of snow sports and white-capped mountain peaks.

The Hotel Saliecho is the closest hotel to Formigal, situated right at the entrance of the resort. It was this privileged location along with the promise of spectacular views that drew me in. After winding through the Spanish countryside, past small hillside villages and open swathes of land that stretched out to the horizon, I arrived in a bubble of peace and tranquillity. All around, birds tweeted in the sunshine and a gentle breeze played with the vibrant foliage. I immediately knew this was a place of relaxation and rejuvenation, and dived straight into the good life that the hotel offers.

I kicked things off with the guided mountain excursion that is included in the price, which took me through the Pyrenees landscapes. I learnt about the flora, fauna, and geology of the region as I went, and I finished knowing a whole lot more about the region, its history, and its scenery. The impressive mountain silhouettes harboured centuries of history, entwined with stories that spanned different lifetimes and different eras.

Back at the hotel, the wooden architecture showcased typical mountain character, and my simple but stylish room offered a haven on top of the hill. With all the modern day facilities I needed, including Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and a state-of-the-art bathroom, my mountain retreat was instantly brought into the present day.

When I wasn’t basking in the views from my room, there was plenty to get stuck into. Afternoon walks along criss-crossing pathways were my favourite activity, whilst the on-site Health Club was the perfect place to unwind in the cool of the evening. In winter, the hotel welcomes skiers and snowboarders into its clutches, providing all the necessary facilities for a fun, snow-filled break. In summer, the region is alive with culture. There are plenty of museums to explore, views to soak up, and festivals to take part in, as well as adventurous activities like archery, hiking, climbing, and paintballing. There is a little something for everyone tucked away in this picturesque corner of Spain.

And, when hunger sets in, the hotel puts on a delicious spread of regional cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner – the perfect way to fuel up for a day in the mountains.

The Hotel Saliecho is a mountain haven hidden away in a lush landscape. With its pool, spa, spectacular views, and abundance of outdoor activities, it is the perfect place to hole up for a few days in the clear air of the Spanish countryside.