Viewpoints in Navarre for your motorcycle route: 5 must-see stops with breathtaking views

Top 5: The must-see viewpoints for your motorcycle route through Navarre

In this article, we'll explore some of Navarre’s must-see viewpoints, chosen for their breathtaking views and the pleasure of getting there by motorbike.
Get ready for an adventure; we're hitting the road!

1. Zamariain Viewpoint: gateway to the Irati Forest

Located in the Aezkoa Valley, the Zamariain Viewpoint is the perfect entrance to the Irati Forest, one of the largest and best-preserved forests in Europe. The route starts from Garaioa, covering approximately 3 km one way (about 6 km round trip), with altitudes between 770 m and 1,070 m, and a 300-m elevation gain. It’s a low-to-moderate difficulty hike which takes about 2 and a half hours from Pamplona.

From the platform, you can admire the Irati River winding through oak and beech forests. The best time is at sunset, as it allows you to capture photographs in golden light, perfect for unique memories. You are recommended to park in Garaioa and continue on foot to the viewpoint.

2. Etxauri Viewpoint: the perfect balcony overlooking Pamplona

Located next to the Etxauri Pass, this viewpoint offers views of Pamplona, the Sierra de Sarbil and Alto del Perdón, from an altitude of 840 metres. The climb from Pamplona is a small treat for the motorcycling community: gentle curves, sweeping views and plenty of space to stop and breathe in the fresh air. 

The sunset views are spectacular, with the city bathed in warm hues and the valleys softening into the distance: a place that invites you to sit for a while and enjoy the moment.

3. Bardenas Reales Viewpoint: lunar landscape and epic sunsets

The Bardenas Reales Natural Park offers one of the most unique semi-desert environments found in Europe, with altitudes ranging from 247 m to 660 m. The clay and rock formations create a light show that changes with each hour of the day, resulting in landscapes that seem otherworldly.

Although there are several viewpoints from which to enjoy its views (the Juan Obispo Viewpoint or the Virgen del Yugo Viewpoint), the most highly recommended stop for a motorcycle trip is the Aguilares Viewpoint, next to the Tourist Information Centre. Its easy access, great views and convenient parking make it the perfect spot to stop, admire the scenery and take photos.

4. Aralar Viewpoint: views of the Sierra de Aralar and the Sanctuary of San Miguel

From this high point, you can see the Sierra de Aralar, the Sanctuary of San Miguel and the surrounding valleys. Ideal for motorcyclists looking for curves, altitude and mountain roads, combining paved roads and secondary tracks. 

You can get there in two ways: from Uharte Arakil, via an ascending track, narrow in places, perfect for those who enjoy more authentic routes; and from Lekunberri, by road, a more comfortable but equally scenic climb, with a good surface and excellent views.

Among beech forests and pastures, depending on the time of day, it's possible to see deer, a brief encounter with the local wildlife that always surprises.

5. Lumbier Gorge Viewpoint: panoramic views of the gorge

The Lumbier Gorge is an impressive defile carved by the Irati River, with vertical walls 150 metres high. In addition, from the viewpoint next to the NA-178 road, you can enjoy a unique view from the ruins of the Roman Villa of Liédena, where wooden platforms allow you to contemplate the gorge.

If you’re taking the motorcycle route, we recommend you arrive at sunset, as the golden hues of the rock create a breathtaking natural spectacle. The trip can be combined with a walk along the Irati Rail Trail, a former railway line that passes through tunnels and follows the course of the river. 

As a nearby alternative, the Arbaiun Gorge, just a few kilometres away, is even more interesting: one of the most impressive defiles in Navarre, home to one of the largest colonies of griffon vultures in Europe. From there, it’s worth continuing along the old Iso Pass road, a stretch of mountain road with a series of curves and very scenic views. It's a quiet road outside peak hours and perfect for enjoying a leisurely ride, surrounded by forest and sweeping views of the valley.

Viewpoints with 360º views and motorcycling advice

Navarre not only offers stunning natural landscapes but also strategically located viewpoints that allow you to enjoy 360º panoramic views. In addition to the five main routes described here, the region boasts other points of interest that can be especially appealing to those exploring the region by motorbike. These include: 

• The Ubaba / Balcón de Pilatos Viewpoint (Sierra de Urbasa-Andia): located in the Urbasa-Andia Natural Park, with breathtaking views of the valley and beech and oak forests. Perfect for a stop on a motorcycle route, taking photos and enjoying nature in Navarre.
• The Gallipienzo Viewpoint: overlooking the Aragón River, the Lower Mountains of Navarre and, on clear days, the Pyrenees. An ideal spot for rest stops along the way, landscape photography and birdwatching.
• The Balcón del Pirineo Viewpoint (Abaurrea Alta): in the Aezkoa Valley, this viewpoint offers sweeping panoramic views of Pyrenean meadows and peaks. Perfect for motorcycle stops and mountain photography on clear days.

Advice for motorcyclists: take extra care on curves and slopes, check road conditions and plan your route before setting off.

Alternatives for pedestrians and hikers

These routes are designed for motorbikes, but Navarre also has numerous options for those who prefer to explore its landscapes on foot. Combining a motorcycle adventure with hiking allows you to enjoy the same environments from a different perspective and in greater detail.

• Source of the Urederra River: this 5-6 km circular route is of medium difficulty and offers views of waterfalls, natural pools and viewpoints overlooking the Urederra River. There is parking available at the trailhead, so you can leave your motorcycle and walk the trail comfortably. Ideal for nature photography, birdwatching and enjoying the sound of the water in a peaceful setting.
• Routes and viewpoints in the Sierra de Urbasa: the mountain range offers several circular routes of 5-8 km, with a low-to-medium level of difficulty, suitable for most hikers, which include some viewpoints. The paths are well marked and have areas for resting and enjoying picnics. As with the Source of the Urederra River route, it’s possible to park your bike at the start, making it easy to combine a motorcycle ride with a hike in nature.