The scenic region of Baztán is located in the north of Navarre. It is famous for its beautiful landscapes, green valleys with the typical white houses and for its rich history. Every season is good to visit the Baztán.
This region takes its name from the Baztán River, which flows past numerous small villages. These picturesque villages, with their typical white houses with flower-filled balconies, evoke the essence of traditional Northern Navarrese architecture. Baztán was also the setting for the gripping suspense saga “Baztan Trilogy”, which can be seen on Netflix.
A beautiful viewpoint on the Baztán valley is located near the village of Zigaurre. It is located along the NA-2540 road and offers views of the villages of Zigaurre, Irurita, Gartzain, Ariztegi and Elizondo.
Villages in Baztan
In the Baztán region there are several villages worth a visit. The villages in this region are characterized by their typical white houses.
Elizondo
One of the nicest villages in the Baztán region is Elizondo, which is also the capital of the area. Elizondo has those charming streets with the typical white houses you see around here. The Bidasoa River runs through the village, giving it a calm vibe. Stone bridges connect the riverbanks, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful walk along the river.
Here you can also admire historical buildings, such as the Town Hall and the Church of Santiago, which reflect centuries of architecture. In the village there are also mansions and palaces that once belonged to the aristocracy and which show the grandeur of the past.
Amaiur-Maya
Another lovely village to visit is Amaiur-Maya. This little village played a very important role in the fight for the independence of the Kingdom of Navarre. In 1512, the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon conquered much of Navarre with the goal of annexing the Kingdom of Navarre to their territory, which led to Navarre losing its independence.
However, in Amaiur-Maya there was a big castle, where Navarrese troops were entrenched. Here there was fierce fighting against the invaders until Navarre became independent again in 1522. Another castle that played an important role during this time is the Castle of Javier.
The remains of the castle can be visited today, with a monolith in the center, which was built in 1922 as a tribute to the fallen troops who fought for Navarre's independence.
What else to visit in the Baztán region
In addition to Elizondo and Amaiur-Maya, Baztán is home to the well-known waterfall of Xorroxin. The walk up to the waterfall is perfect for relaxing with the whole family.
Close to the border with France is also the village of Zurragamurdi, known for legends of covens and witchcraft. Just 400 meters from this village, after a pleasant walk through the forest in which it is located, you will find access to the cave of Zugarramurdi. The dimensions of this cave are impressive: a 120 meter long natural tunnel with heights of up to 12 meters and two elevated galleries.
Also located in Zugarramurdi is the Museum of the Brujas (“Witches Museum”), which explores the socio-cultural origins of the legends of witchcraft. It is recommended to explore this museum before visiting the cave, as it helps to better understand what the cave meant to the inhabitants of Zugarramurdi. In addition to Spanish and Basque explanations, the museum also offers explanations in English and French. Here you can buy entrance tickets for both the cave and the museum.
3 kilometers from Zugarramurdi is another cave, the Urdazubi/Urdax cave. This cave is completely different from that of Zugarramurdi. The Urdazubi/Urdax cave is closed off from sunlight, unlike the Zugarramurdi cave, and here you'll find a stunning collection of stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands and thousands of years. For more information about the Urdazubi/Urdax cave and to purchase tickets, click here.
