Must-visits in Navarre for nature lovers
If you're just planning on spending a short stay in Navarre, then you really must visit some of these beautiful spots. Although they're all as different as day and night, they each have a charm that you'll possibly never forget.
Click on them to discover everything that you can see and do at these top nature spots
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Navarre Pyrenees
It's nothing new to say that the Navarre Pyrenees is one of the natural areas with the greatest environmental value in the entire country. This is a unique place to connect with nature and culture, both of which have managed to keep their essence and authenticity.
Here we've got the gentlest mountains in all the Pyrenees and, although you'll find it hard to believe, this really is a good thing.
Why? because they're really accessible mountains, ideal for rambling, for going into the heart of impressive woodlands such as the Bertiz Natural Park or the Irati Forest, or for observing the limestone gorges, such as Lumbier or Arbaiun, with vultures flying overhead... The Pyrenees is a breathtaking area, with beautiful valleys such as Roncal-Belagua, Salazar and Aezkoa and with picture postcard villages: cobbled streets, sturdy farmhouses and rich cuisine. What's more, it holds some well-known treasures of architecture such as the Collegiate Church of Roncesvalles or the sanctuary of San Miguel de Aralar.
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Baztan Valley
In the heart of the Atlantic Pyrenees lies the most noble valley in Navarre, a land of hidalgos (noblemen) and adventurers, artisans, witches and smugglers.
Baztan is a patchwork of meadows that are always green, picturesque villages, beautiful red stone farmsteads and clumps of geraniums, delicious cuisine and a culture that is really deep-rooted. Its rolling hills trace the silhouette of towns such as Elizondo, Amaiur/Maya, or Ziga where water is always present, such as the Xorroxin Waterfall and the Molino del Infierno or flour mill of hell.
This valley is part of the Way of St James, although you can also get an insight into its more occult history through the stories of witchcraft and mythology that surround this place.
All about the Baztan Valley -
Roncal Valley
The Roncal Valley, which lies in the heart of the Pyrenees of Navarre, appears to have been created by some romantic painter. Villages with cobbled streets and impressive houses, smoking chimneys and geraniums colouring the streets. All in a valley that is proud of its history and traditions and enhances their value at its fiestas.
Villages with their own separate identity, such as Isaba, Burgui or Roncal itself, surrounded by breathtaking countryside, give you more than enough reason to organise a break to the Roncal Valley. And there's more to come! Its impressive cuisine - don't miss the migas de pastor (shepherd's breadcrumbs) and, of course, the D.O. Roncal cheese - and its age-old festivals such as the Tributo de las Tres Vacas, are set to put the finishing touch to your visit to this valley.
All about the Roncal Valley -
Belagua Valley
Without leaving the Roncal Valley, from the village of Isaba take the route to Belagua, the only glacier valley in Navarre. This valley has a long-standing farming and livestock tradition, in which ancient customs are still continued today.
It has several protected areas, one of which is the Nature Reserve of Larra, comprising one of the most impressive karst landscapes in Europe. The black pines making their way between the limestone rock will make you reach for your camera immediately. What's more, it's also a really tempting valley for speleologists, given that it has more than 3,000 catalogued chasms. Another of its attractions is the fact that it holds the highest mountain in Navarre, namely the Mesa de los Tres Reyes (2,242m). This makes the valley an idea place for rambling and cross-country skiing. In short, it's a sweet place for mountain lovers.
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Ultzama Valley
Another beautiful little valley at just 25 kilometres from Pamplona. It offers something for everyone: the Orgi Wood, an age-old oak grove; undulating meadows; well-tended traditional stone farmsteads; a golf course in a stunning oak grove; and delicious home-made junket that you could die for. Also worth a mention here is the Ultzama Mycological Park, which is extremely popular in autumn thanks to its wealth of wild mushrooms.
Fairytale woodlands
It's time to take shelter under oak and beech trees, and appreciate the sounds of the woodlands in Navarre, where the fauna and flora go hand in hand to create a fresh ambience full of different shades of green in spring and summer, turning russet in autumn.
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Irati Forest
One of the most iconic natural areas in Navarre and the Pyrenees. And we're not just saying it, it's really true! Irati is one of the largest and best-preserved beech and fir forests in Europe.
It's a place to take your breath away and comfort your soul at any time of year. Its more than 17,000 hectares of almost virgin nature offer a host of sport and leisure options, including rambling among meadows, beech trees or alongside the Irabia reservoir, trail riding on your MTB or painting a picture with the autumn colours.
All about the Irati Forest -
Señorío de Bertiz Natural Park
This was the first place to be declared a Natural Park in Navarre. Over the centuries, the Atlantic has had a marked influence on this area, to create this wood full of beeches, cypress oaks and oaks.
Take a stroll through the park and botanical gardens, which are a showcase for biodiversity, with species from all over the world. Admire its ponds and pools and visit the palace.
What's more, its Interpretation Centre will give you an insight into this beautiful place.
All about Bertiz -
Impressive oak groves
Majestic trees, some are hundreds while others are thousands of years old. Their strange shapes create mysterious atmospheres and their incredible size is simply jaw-dropping. The following are well worth a visit:
- Orgi wood in the Ultzama Valley.
- Monumental oak trees in Jauntsarats in Basaburua
- Thousand-year old oaks in Etxarri Aranatz. This trail can be extended to include the dolmen trail.
- Oak grove of Altsasu/Alsasua
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Enchanted beechwoods
We're aware that the beech woods of the Irati Forest are the most sought-after, but make no mistake, all beech woods convey an aura of peace and tranquillity. To mention but a few:
- The Mountaineers Itinerary and the enchanted beech woods of Urbasa
- Iturburua in Bertiz
- Dronda- Mata de Haya in Belagua
- Basajaunberro woodlands in Orreaga/Roncesvalles
- Tres Hayas Trail, which is one of the bunker trails at Auritz/Burguete
- Quinto Real Forest
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Leitzalarrea Forest
Mainly populated by beech and oak trees, although meadows and bracken are abundant, as are various conifer types.
But there's more to Leitzalarrea than nature alone. The megaliths scattered around the land demonstrate that humans have been in this area since time immemorial. Mining was also important for centuries and there are still many vestiges and remains of the former foundries.
Make a visit and check out the information panels showing the different trails and walks.
More information on Leitzalarrea
BIOSPHERE RESERVE
Bardenas Reales: the largest desert in Europe
This comes as a real surprise in Navarre because, instead of being in the north of the Iberian peninsula, you appear to be in the heart of Africa.
The Bardenas Reales desert is a Natural Park covering 42,500 hectares, sculpted by the elements to become a desert with an almost lunar landscape featuring gullies, plateaux and curious, solitary hills.
A place that is so extraordinary that you shouldn't be surprised to see a film or TV recording team there.
When water plays the leading role
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Source of the River Urederra
One of the wonders of Navarre in sight!
This river source is a natural outlet for the aquifer formed in the Urbasa-Andía Natual Park and the exceptional colour of its waters led it to be named Urederra which means "beautiful water" in the Basque language.
To check this out for yourself, simply follow the 7 kilometre path running alongside the river to get some colourful views: the turquoise of the waters, the greens and russets of the vegetation, the azure of the sky... An easy-to-walk trail that will take you, following the pools, to one of the most luxuriant spots in Navarre.
All about the Source of the River Urderra -
Gorges of Lumbier and Arbaiun
Pay attention! Because you're looking at one of the most impressive natural phenomena: the gorges in the Navarre Pyrenees.
And the fact is that, here in Navarre, these canyons or ravines are called gorges; it has taken the rivers millions of years to carve out these narrow valleys in the limestone. The result is an extraordinary landscape, with narrow corridors and currents of air that give us a really unique ecosystem which is a haven for numerous birds of prey.
The most well-known gorges are the Gorge of Lumbier, carved by the river Irati and now a greenway, and the Gorge of Arbaiun, whose panoramic views from the Iso pass should not be missed.
All about the Gorges of Lumbier and Arbaiun -
Leurtza Reservoirs
Amid the woodlands in the Atlantic area of Navarre, these mountain lakes emerge as an attractive surprise. Surrounded by beech woods, they look like they've been taken out of a fairytale. Along their easy-to-walk trails, you'll be able to see the uses, fauna and flora in the area and, what's more there's a picnic site that makes this natural area an ideal spot for families.
All about the Leurtza reservoirs -
Alloz Reservoir
Very close to Estella-Lizarra, you'll find this reservoir with calm, turquoise waters surrounded by gall oaks, thickets and pine trees. It's the perfect place for water sports or to take a dip in summer. It's ideal for getting started in sailing or paddle surf with no worries about currents. While, if you're after something relaxing, you can hire a water pedal boat, canoe or book a boat trip. Picnic areas, toilets, shade, car parks and bathing areas are all there. Everything ready to enjoy a sweet day on a freshwater beach!
All the activities available on the Alloz Reservoir
Must-visit sierras in Navarre
By now, you're sure to have realised that Navarre is not lacking in natural areas. Quite the opposite, we have so many that it's complicated to highlight the merits of each one without getting too involved. Even so, we're going to continue our efforts to show you all our natural treasures. We're almost there.
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Sierra de Aralar
This karst massif shared with the neighbouring province of Gipuzkoa forms a unique landscape based on limestone pavements, blind valleys, caves, green meadows and endless beech groves. In short, it offers attractions for everyone!
Rambling between woodlands and dolmens, pretty villages that stand peacefully on the lower slopes of the Sierra, such as Mugiro, Iribas or Arbizu, or a visit to the Romanesque Sanctuary of San Miguel de Aralar located at a viewpoint that has an altitude of more than 1,200 m. These are just a few examples of the things that you can do in these unforgettable places.
See all the plans near to the Sierra de Aralar -
Urbasa-Andía Natural Park
Located no more nor less than at an altitude of 1,000 metres, this great karst massif combines woodlands and large tablelands in a place where it is customary to see horses and sheep grazing. The sheep's milk is used to make the delicious D.O. Idiazabal cheese.
Don't miss the impressive views from its northern slopes towards the mythical mount Beriain and Sierra de Aralar, and also from the Balcón de Ubaba viewpoint in the south, which falls abruptly to form the impressive cirque of rocks around the Source of the River Urederra.
See all the plans near Urbasa
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Journey into the centre of the earth
Caves in Navarre
Throughout history, these almost magical excavations in the earth have served to shelter from adverse weather conditions, to hold akelarres or gatherings of witches, or to escape from the law.
Today, you're offered the possibility to visit these caves and to explore the depth of nature in Navarre.
Cave of the Witches of Zugarramurdi
Here nature goes hand in hand with a mysterious and disturbing history of witches. Ideally, visit the Cueva Grande or great cave and discover the setting, with a magnificent viewpoint and the Infernuko Erreka, the "stream of hell" responsible for the formation of the caves.
Cave of Urdazubi/Urdax
Although it comprises a number of caves, it is only possible to visit the Cave of Ikaburu. This cave has progressively been formed over several hundreds of thousands of years. It is open to visitors, allowing you to enjoy a magical universe of stalactites and stalagmites.
Cave of Mendukilo in Astitz
This cave was used for centuries as a stable and, today, it's a really interesting tour among stalactites and stalagmites in the depths of the Sierra de Aralar. A journey into the centre of the earth.
The TOP most sports to enjoy in the open air
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Bikes and MTB
I'd like to tour Navarre by bikeIf you're into two wheels, then you've come to the ideal place, because Navarre is a destination that offers some well-prepared bike trails.
For a relaxing tour to enjoy every change of scenery, choose one of its five greenways. This will allow you to combine your hobby with a little bit of history about the place. Another option is to do one of the stages of the Way of St James or the EuroVelo Route. However, if you 're looking for complete freedom, then pay attention to our MTB spaces.
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Trail walking
Hundreds of kilometres of paths and trails between oak and beech woods, alongside rivers, waterfalls and river sources; others along the greenways or more suitable for practising Nordic Walking. You can also find others that give you a small insight into culture, such as those that run alongside megalithic monuments and those that conceal treasures.
They come in every colour and there's something for everyone. So there's no excuse for not staying active!
I want to do trail walking
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E infórmate de los mejores planes de Turismo en Navarra
Are you game for doing the Way of St James?
Navarre is the entry point of the Way of St James into Spain.
And, during your journey, you'll find wild nature, with a peppering of popular traditions and a truly exceptional historical heritage.
Where can you start the Way of St James? Well, look, you've got up to four starting points. Your choice will depend on your physical condition and your scenery preferences.
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French Way of St James
From Orreaga/Roncesvalles up to Viana
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French Way of St James (II)
From Sangüesa to Puente la Reina
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Way of St James through the Baztan Valley
From Urdazubi/Urdax to Arre
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Way of St James through the Ebro Valley
From Cortes to Castejón
Adventure parks
These locations fuse nature, sport and fun. The ultimate “all in one”.
You can come here to whizz down ziplines, walk over hanging bridges, enjoy water activities, and even see animals in their natural habitats, but they have so much more to offer.
All in a perfectly integrated natural setting: smiles guaranteed.
See all adventure parks-
Sendaviva
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Irrisarri Land
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Baztan Abentura Park
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Bertiz Abentura Park
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Artamendia Adventure Park
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Beigorri Adventure Park
Looking for even more adventure? Then Active Tourism is for you
Great, because if you take a closer look, you'll see that nature tourism in Navarre can be as active as you like: mountaineering, canoeing, climbing, canyoning, caving and even windsurfing.
And, if you're into air sports, then you can do paragliding, hire a balloon ride or a two-seater plane: you decide how you'd like to explore Navarre.
Ver todas las propuestas de turismo activoNature plans organised by professionals
Nature plans organised by professionals
Experience an adventure, but with the support of professionals who will guide you and tell you secrets that you'd never discover by yourself.
Rural tourism: accommodation in contact with nature
There are a host of options for rural tourism in Navarre. So you simply have to decide on where you'd like to stay.
Country guest houses: either renting a complete property and doing as you please, or renting bedrooms with breakfast.
Country hotels: if you're looking for convenience and places with character, yet without missing out on the essence of the natural setting.
Campsites: ideal for those looking for adventure or for families.
Hostels: the best option for groups and sports enthusiasts
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Unique accommodation for those looking for adventure
Imagine sleeping in a suite at the top of a tree, waking up in a million-year old cave, resting in a shepherd's hut in the heart of the countryside or staying in a bubble under the stars and with view of the Bardenas Reales Desert.
And, to end, one on historical buildings. We're highlighting the Parador de Olite, which offers you the possibility of staying in a real 15th century castle, which still holds that magical medieval air.
Consulta aquí todos los alojamientos singulares
Other plans to complete your nature tourism visit to Navarre
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Cuisine
Cuisine
Treat your palate to authentic Navarrese cuisine. All washed down, of course, with local wine.
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Culture and roots
Culture and roots
Travel to the heart of the old Kingdom, where Navarre’s truly splendid cultural heritage will quench your curiosity.
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City breaks
City breaks
A weekend goes a long way when you're in Navarre. Culture and pintxos join forces to bring you the best of urban leisure.