Do you want to continue knowing wonderful corners of our country? Well, as your wishes are orders for us, after talking to you about the most beautiful medieval towns in Spain, today we are going to show you a natural space in the north of the peninsula that is worth knowing. We are referring to Baztan Valley, a space that we could define as magical, bucolic, misty, traditional and beautiful.
Located in the heart of NavarreIt is considered one of the most well preserved landscapes in the entire community. Fancy discovering more details? Well you know what you have to do! Do not miss anything we tell you below!
Location
The Baztan Valley is a tremendously beautiful natural Pyrenean landscape, as well as being very attractive for its culture and traditions. It is located between the ports of Belate and Otsondo and houses fifteen towns. It is Oronoz-Mugaire, Arraioz, Irurita, Almandoz, Berroeta, Aniz, Ziga, Lekaroz, Gartzain, Elbetea, Arizkun, Azpilkueta, Erratzu, Amaiur-Maya and Elizondo, considered the capital of this municipality. It is important to note that it is considered the most extensive of Navarra, in addition to being one of the best preserved.
Its natural beauty
There are many attractions that this region hides. How could it be otherwise, one of them is its natural beauty. And it is that you can see beautiful green and squared meadows, lush forests, high peaks ... We want to highlight Vertex, a 2,000-hectare natural park located at the entrance to the valley and which houses a well-preserved native forest. On the other hand, you should bear in mind that the best views are obtained from the viewpoint located in Ziga, from the Otsondo port and from the top of Gorramendi. Of course, we also have to talk about the Zugarramurdi cave, a karst complex pierced by a stream that crosses the main cavity. This is the Regatta of Hell. Today, this and other caves are shrouded in legends, mystery and magic.
Historical heritage
Another attraction of the valley is that you can see the traces of history in practically every corner. Thus, for example, you can discover the Izpegi dolmens or the Erratuzu-Alduides megaliths, which demonstrate the existence in the area of settlements prehistoric; fortress towers and armory cape palaces, which bring us closer to the times of conflict of the late Middle Ages. Among the most notable buildings are the Casa Jaurequizar in Arraoiz, which has become a tourist accommodation; the Jarola and Ascoa palaces, in Elbete; the Arizkunenea palace, and the Puriosenea house of Elizondo.
Trekking
On the other hand, it is important to keep in mind that the Baztán Valley is a good place for hiking. Of course, you should know that the trails that you can find here are quite simple. In addition, in this beautiful area of Navarra you can visit different museums, discover active mills, taste the delicious gastronomy of the area and see first-hand how many traditions have been maintained until now, such as the use of musical instruments such as the txalaparta, the typical dances or the widespread use of Basque. Of course, visiting the different towns of the valley you will be amazed by the traditional Navarrese mansions, the cobbled streets, the quiet atmosphere and its many festivals, ball competitions or brotherhood meetings. Finally, we want to remember that it is a valley surrounded by legends and mythological characters. Then we leave you with our Gallery, where you will find more images of the beautiful Baztan Valley. Do not miss it!
El Valle del Baztán: En busca del "Guardián Invisible" (April 2024)
- nature, Navarra, valleys
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