Aralar

The summit of Txindoki, also known locally as Larrunarri, is the symbol of Aralar.

The summit of Txindoki, also known locally as Larrunarri, is the symbol of Aralar. Its striking, magnificent silhouette is visible from many miles around and it is acknowledged as the best-loved, most beautiful mountain in Gipuzkoa.

The variety of megalythic monuments in the area, and the fact that it has the greatest number of dolmens in the Basque Country, are evidence that man has inhabited this area for thousands of years. Sheep have grazed on these pastures from time immemorial, and the “latxa” breed still graze there today.

Limestone and the presence of water have created a karstically-formed landscape, with a profusion of chasms, springs and underground rivers. The river Amundarain provides the onlooker with a lively spectacle full of cascades and pools, with excellent quality of water together with well-conserved river-bank vegetation. The Agauntza is another important local river.Of special geomorphological interest is the basin at Ataun, where the erosion of land has left the surrounding cliffs exposed.

Fauna is typical of mountainous areas, with species such as the Egyptian and other vultures, the booted eagle, the yellow-beaked and red-beaked choughs, the mountain greenfinch, the black woodpecker, the rock martin, the snow rat, the marten, the wildcat and the wild boar.