Tour de Sakana

In the north-west of Navarre, between the majestic massifs of Aralar and Urbasa-Andia, where beeches and oaks, chasms and groundwater springs reign supreme, the deep, narrow Sakana valley, bathed by the Arakil river, opens out.

On this imposing terrain, the significant difference in height between the valley and the peaks leads us to choose a bike route in the lower part, with small skirmishes on the slopes to add some irregularity.

The end result is an authentic gravel ride through the valley, starting from Alsasua heading west until you reach Ziordia. From there, head back east via Olazagutía, Urdiain, Iturmendi and Bakaiku; climb to Lizarraga and cross the A-10 motorway to pass through Arbizu, Lakuntza and Etxarri Aranatz. With one last foray onto the slopes of the Sierra de Aralar, return to the starting point after touring a valley with significant industrial development and exceptional natural beauty.