Route of the 3 most beautiful valleys of northern Spain
The Leizarán-Plazaola, Ulzama-Basaburua and Bidasoa valleys, located between the regions of Guipúzcoa and Navarre, are called the Route of the 3 most beautiful valleys in the North of Spain. They are true paradises for nature, hiking and cycling lovers. These valleys offer lush green landscapes, lush forests of beech and oak, rural villages with history and a network of roads and tracks with little traffic, ideal for an adventure of exploration.
In the Leizarán-Plazaola valley is the old railway line that connected San Sebastián with Pamplona, covering approximately 75 kilometres. The route crosses narrow valleys and leafy forests, passing through historic tunnels and bridges over the river Leizarán. It is ideal for a multi-day trip, allowing cyclists, walkers or hikers to enjoy the natural and cultural wealth of the region.
The Leizarán Valley is a natural enclave with fast-flowing rivers, where old dams such as Biosnar and Inturia still generate electricity. In the middle of the route is Leitza, a village with a strong lumber and blacksmith tradition, famous for its Basque architecture and its cider houses. Leaving this town we find the Plazaola section between Leiza and Lekunberri, which follows the old Plazaola train route, crossing tunnels, viaducts and spectacular gorges. Although it is a train route, we will be surprised by its constant ascent until we reach the Huitzi tunnel. This route, about 6 km long, accessible and surrounded by mountains, is perfect for cyclists and hikers looking for an immersive experience in the silent nature of Navarre.
The arrival at the village of Lekumberri is at the same train station, as in the olden days travellers used to arrive. Today it has been converted into a tourist office and hostel. But it doesn’t end here, the next stretch from this village is one of the most beautiful nature trails you can take. Alongside the river Larraun runs a wide track that runs parallel to the river and enters a forest of oak and beech trees, completely covered with ochre leaves in autumn and winter. Once we reach the Latasa crossroads, we leave this natural path to take, for the last time, the section of the Via verde del Plazaola that will take us to the village of Latasa, in just 2 kms of walking.
The next valley we will cross is the Ultzama-Basaburua Valley, which is characterised by its green and undulating landscape, with gentle mountains, extensive meadows and forests of beech, oak, pine and chestnut trees. The villages in the area, such as Auza and Eltzaburu, stand out for their heraldic stone houses, with elegant and pompous coats of arms of ancient ancestry that bear witness to the noble families that lived there. This rural environment offers a humid and mild climate, favourable for livestock and agriculture as ancestral activities and nowadays nature tourism and mushrooms, a highly appreciated gastronomic product in this area.
Continuing along the logical and natural route, we reach Jaunsarats, where we take a spectacular, comfortable and quiet path until we join a comfortable track and leave the Orgi oak grove. You leave behind this natural space, Basaburua Valley, with extensive oak groves and a rich biodiversity. Both valleys are home to centuries-old oak trees, some of which have been declared Natural Monuments, such as those of Jauntsarats and Eltzaburu. These monumental trees are living witnesses to history and offer hiking or cycling routes that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of nature. For nature enthusiasts, the region offers routes that combine forest tracks, country roads and forest trails, providing a unique experience of connection with the natural environment.
Following the narrow road we reach the Saldias pass via the N-4140 road (one of the various mountain passes that cross this mountain range) and then slowly descend through the various small villages that we come across, Beintza, Urrotz, Donamaria…. . Finally, the route will reach the third valley that we should not miss on this amazing journey.
The Bidasoa Valley is an exceptional route for its tranquillity, landscape and traditional architecture. The Casa Baztanesa is a sturdy, whitewashed house with touches of colour, particularly the reddish stone slabs on the lower part of the façades. The river Bidasoa forms the border between France and Spain from Endarlaza onwards. Following the route of the old train from Santesteban (Doneztebe) to Behobia, the Via Verde del Bidasoa jumps the river from one side to the other, crossing tunnels between leafy forests, passing through historic villages such as Bera de Bidasoa, Lesaka or cities such as Irún
However, in Behobia, the route enters French soil, following the banks of the Bidasoa River along its right bank, to Hendaye, a quiet and scenic stretch, ideal for cycling or walking. To finish and round off our journey, we will cross by small boat to Hondarribia, enjoying a spectacular arrival in this fishing town with its historic quarter and views of the Bay of Biscay.
Travelling along these greenways is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and discover the cultural richness of this area of northern Spain. Whether on a long weekend getaway or a more extended adventure, these routes offer unforgettable experiences for all curious visitors who want to soak up culture, gastronomy and history.
Exploring the Leizarán, Ultzama and Bidasoa valleys on foot or by bicycle is an experience that combines sport, nature and culture. The routes available offer moderate challenges in surroundings of incomparable beauty, allowing cyclists to immerse themselves in green landscapes, lush forests and charming villages. Whether traversing forest tracks, discovering centuries-old oak trees or enjoying the local hospitality, every kilometre ridden in these valleys leaves a lasting impression.
