Alt Àneu

The municipality of Alt Àneu is located in the north of the Pallars Sobirà region, in the northernmost part of Catalonia. The towns that make up the area are Alós, Àrreu, Borén, Isavarre, Isil, Son, Sorpe and Valencia de Àneu, which are spread out between 1,000 and 1,400 metres above sea level along the valleys formed by the Noguera Pallaresa and Bonaigua rivers.

It is delimited to the north by France, to the east by Guingueta de Àneu and Esterri d'Àneu, to the south by Espot and to the west by Salardú, in the Vall d'Aran.

The natural environment of Alt Àneu is exceptional, with Pyrenean landscapes of great beauty that include lush forests, alpine meadows and crystal-clear rivers. This natural wealth has favoured the conservation of a remarkable biodiversity and the practice of activities such as hiking, skiing and wildlife watching. The census population is approximately 450 inhabitants, although this figure increases during the tourist seasons.

The Fallas de Isil are an ancestral celebration, which takes place on the night of San Juan, and consists of the descent of large burning logs from the mountain to the village. The festival, recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity, symbolises purification and renewal with fire as its central element. Every year it attracts visitors and participants from all over who experience one of the most authentic festivals in the Pyrenees.

History

municipality in 1970 through the merger of the former terms of Isil, Son, Sorpe and Valencia de Àneu, as well as the Commonwealth of the Four Villages.

The municipality has a rich historical and cultural heritage, with particular emphasis on the Romanesque art present in its churches and monuments throughout the Esterri d'Àneu valley.

For centuries, the Àneu valleys have been a territory of passage and commercial exchange between the Pyrenean regions and Occitania.

Villages of Alt Àneu

Aloso of Isil

Located on the banks of the Noguera Pallaresa River, Alós d'Isil is a mountain village with great rural charm. It stands out for its traditional Pyrenean architecture, with stone houses and slate roofs. It is the starting point for hiking routes to the Isil Valley and the Alt Pirineu Natural Park.

Area

Uninhabited village located in a place of great scenic value. Despite its current state, Àrreu preserves remains of traditional Pyrenean architecture, as well as the castle of Àrreu, an ancient medieval fortification that recalls its strategic importance in the past.

Boren

One of the most picturesque villages in the municipality, with spectacular views over the valley. The church of Sant Martí, of Romanesque origin, stands out, as does its location near the Noguera Pallaresa river, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.

Isavarre

A small village that preserves the essence of the Pyrenean valleys, with stone houses and narrow streets. The church of Sant Llorenç is one of its most outstanding heritage elements. From here you can take excursions to the mountains to enjoy the landscape.

Isil

Known for being the epicentre of the Fallas de Isil, a traditional festival declared Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. The church of San Juan de Isil, of Romanesque origin, is another of its main attractions. In addition, the town is surrounded by lush forests and impressive mountains.

Dream

One of the highest villages in the municipality, with panoramic views over the valley. It is known for its Romanesque church of Sant Just i Pastor, one of the most important in the area, and for its Àneu Valley Nature Centre, which promotes the dissemination of the natural and cultural heritage of the territory.

Surprise

It stands out for its location and its church of Sant Pere, a medieval construction with Gothic elements. Sorpe is a quiet town with a strong livestock tradition, and still preserves many stone houses with traditional Pyrenean elements.

Valencia of Aeneas

This is the historical and administrative centre of the municipality. Here you will find the remains of the Castle of Valencia de Àneu, an ancient medieval fortification situated at a strategic point above the valley. It also preserves heritage elements such as the church of Sant Andreu, a Romanesque construction with interesting mural paintings.

Places of interest

Valencia de Àneu Castle

medieval fortress, situated on a stream at an altitude of over 1,100 metres, dominates the valleys of Àneu and offers a privileged view of the surroundings. Documented since the 13th century, it was a key element in the political and military organisation of Pallars Sobirà.

Church of San Justo and Pastor de Son

Pyrenean Romanesque architecture, it is a temple built between the 11th and 12th centuries. Its structure preserves the original essence, with a single nave, semicircular apse and a bell tower that stands out on the horizon. The interior houses Romanesque mural paintings and a baptismal sink from the medieval period, testimony to the historical and artistic value of the complex.

Alt Pirineu Natural Park

The park, the largest in Catalonia, includes a great diversity of high mountain ecosystems with forests, rivers and glacial lakes. It is an ideal place for hiking, with routes that allow you to discover native fauna such as the chamois, the capercaillie and the golden eagle. In addition, during the winter, it is a point of interest for fans of mountain skiing and other activities in the snow.