There’s no better or more enjoyable way to get to know the region than by hiking in the hills, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the Urkiola Natural Park on foot. Some hikes start in Urkiola and head into the park, which others start in the surrounding area and show off the park in all its splendour. Below is just a taste of the routes on offer through the Urkiola Natural Park.
Hikes from Urkiola
1. Urkiola – Saibigain
A relatively short and easy route that’s suitable all year round. From the top of Saibigain you’ll enjoy wonderful views of the park and the surrounding area.
The route begins next to the Toki Alai Interpretation Centre and is waymarked. Along the way you’ll be treated to views of all the hills in the area. On a clear day you’ll even be able to see the sea.
Distance: 4 km
Time: 1 h 15 min
2. Urkiolagirre and Larrano
This hike is a bit longer and more challenging, but it’s still relatively easy.
It starts from the Urkiola sanctuary, where you’ll find an information panel indicating the route to Urkiolagirre. Follow the route and in an hour and a half you’ll reach the top. From there, descend to the Pol-Pol fountain, then follow the signs to the top of Larrano.
Distance: 10 km
Time: 2 h 45 min
3. Anboto
Anboto is the highest peak in the Urkiola Natural Park and is a source of Basque mythology. A magnificent landscape awaits you. It’s quite a long route that can be split into three separate stages.
a) Urkiola – Asuntze: start from the carpark at the Urkiola sanctuary. The trial to the right is easier and flatter, but less spectacular than the trail to the left, which climbs through meadows and is much steeper. After you hike over Urkiolagirre you’ll reach Asuntze.
b) Asuntze – Pagozelai: to continue on to Anboto, head to the right on the hillside to hike below the mines. Pass the refuge and follow the trail to Pagozelai.
c) Pagozelai – Anboto summit: at Pagozelai, follow the waymarked trail through the beech forest and Urkullu. From there, head to the right and continue to the top.
Distance: 4.9 km
Time: 3 hours
From Abadiño
4. Astxiki
Rather than starting in Urkiola, head to the Atxarte carpark. Take the trail to the left and begin the ascent of Astxiki. Cross the beech forest and you’ll start to glimpse the mass of the mountain. Continue upwards, following the high voltage line to the Artola col. Keep left and climb through meadows and between rocks to the summit of Astxiki. The views from the top are amazing. When you’re ready, head down by the same route.
Distance: 5.5 km
Time: 2 h 15 min
5. Alluitz
This hike also starts from the Atxarte carpark. Take the trail on the left in the direction of the slopes of Astxiki. Continue until you cross a narrower trail that leads to the Intxaurralde country house. Pick up this trail to hike through the Genzelai meadows and climb to the Artola col. From there, head to the right and hike up the very steep trail to the top. Your efforts will be repaid by the spectacular views at the summit. When you’re ready, head down by the same route.
Distance: 6 km
Time: 3 h 15 min
