Aralar
Aizkorri-Aratz
Active tourismNature
As soon as we leave this urban area and start climbing into the mountain ranges which surround the valley, such a Aralar, Aizkorri or Murumendi, we find ourselves in unrivalled natural settings which offer magnificent views. The Aralar and Aizkorri-Aratz nature reserves provide the opportunity for eco-tourism and wonderful mountain hikes.
Zaldibia and Ataun provide the two natural entrances to the Aralar Nature Reserve.
Those interested in fairly easy hikes through beautiful scenery should take a look at the guide "Goierri Mendiz Mendi", which sets out over 50 hikes and gives plenty of interesting background information.
Zaldibia and Ataun provide the two natural entrances to the Aralar Nature Reserve. From Ataun-Lizarrusti ( where Aralar Nature Reserve Information Centre is placed) it is easy to reach the Lareo reservoir, surrounded by mountains in a setting of great scenic beauty. There is an interesting route from Zaldibia to Osinberde, the craggy source of the river Amundarain. The C.A.F. water supply tanks (some 2 km. from Zaldibia) are the starting-point for a walk along a path which is hundreds, if not thousands, of years old. This leads up to the moors and peaks of Aralar. It also has a fishing school and the River Interpretation Centre.
From Zegama we can reach the famous San Adrian tunnel in the Aizkorri mountain range with its ancient travellers´ way. In Zegama is the Wood Interpretation Centre.
The Oianguren park just outside Ordizia is a superb setting for a family day out. There are picnic tables, barbecue facilities, restaurants, a children´s playground and the chance to go horse-riding. The mountains of Txindoki, Aralar and Aizkorri provide an incomparable backcloth to this scene.