NATURE PLANS IN URDAIBAI
WALK IN A UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT
NATURE PLANS IN URDAIBAI & HIKING
“If you are a nature lover, the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a magical place with unlimited possibilities to enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities.”
Route through the Biosphere Reserve and the Interpretation Center
You will begin at the Interpretation Center, where an explanatory panel explains the ecological value of Urdaibai: marshes, dunes, and forests. The circular trail borders the reservoir and passes through reed beds, ideal for observing aquatic birds such as spoonbills and herons. Along the way, you will find viewpoints with fixed binoculars for observation.
Approximate duration: 2 hours
Coastal Walk from Itxasgain to Laida
A seaside path that connects two golden sandy beaches. The route combines clifftop views with wooden walkways over the dunes and ends in Laida, where you can relax by the water. Along the way, you can appreciate the eroded rock formations and small waterfalls after periods of rain.
Approximate duration: 1.5 hours
ASCENT TO MOUNT OGOÑO
This moderately steep climb passes through holm oak and beech forests, leaving the town of Elantxobe behind. At the top, the panoramic views of Urdaibai, the estuary, and the Cantabrian Sea are spectacular. The descent follows an alternative trail that returns to the starting point alongside open meadows.
Approximate duration: 3 hours
Visit the Forua Marshes Circuit
A flat and accessible route that borders the Forua Wetland, protected for its ornithological importance. You’ll walk along wooden walkways and bridges, with interpretive panels on the fauna and riparian vegetation. This route is well-suited to groups of different experience levels.
Approximate duration: 1 hour
Visit to the Oma Forest and the work of Agustín Ibarrola
This trail passes through a beech forest painted with Ibarrola’s artistic intervention on the trunks. The contrast between contemporary art and the natural surroundings makes the walk a sensory experience. There are several forks that allow you to lengthen or shorten the route according to the group’s interests.
Approximate duration: 2 hours
Excursion to Santimamiñe Cave
The hike starts from the parking lot and gently climbs to the entrance of the cave, famous for its prehistoric paintings. Although the interior can only be visited with a guided reservation, the forest surroundings and limestone rock sections offer geological and biological interest throughout the hike.
Approximate duration: 1.5 hours
Artea Mills Trail
This trail follows the course of a stream, following ancient ruins of water mills. The route is mostly flat and passes stone bridges and natural waterfalls where you can stop for a refreshing dip. This is an attractive route for families or groups looking for a comfortable itinerary without sacrificing the river scenery.
Approximate duration: 2 hours
Walk through the Arburu oak forests
A circular trail that leads through a forest of ancient oaks and maples, with clearings where small meadows form. The path is marked with wooden markers and connects to longer routes to the Urdaibai reservoir, for those who wish to extend their excursion.
Approximate duration: 2 hours