Urdax - Urdazubi The ideal place in the Basque Country for hikers and families

In the Basque language Urdazubi means "water and bridge". History, nature, tradition, cuisine and sports are closely intertwined in Urdazubi/Urdax, which is magnificently situated at the gateway to the Kingdom of Navarre, perfectly complementing the surrounding forests and mountains and the special combination of its places and people.

Urdazubi/Urdax is nestled in the valley of the Ugarana River, which is crossed by several medieval bridges. It is separated from the Baztán Valley by the Otsondo Pass; the border crossing into France is at Dantxarinea. The town was born in the 15th century as a domain of the San Salvador Monastery; in 1774 it separated and was declared a free town. One of the main attractions of Urdazubi/Urdax is the dominant architectural style of its buildings, harmoniously combining the stately and the traditional. The town's streets count houses bearing coats-of-arms built by the so-called 'Indians' (residents who emigrated to the Americas in the 18th and 19th centuries and returned wealthy, building sumptuous mansions).

Urdazubi/Urdax is also the birthplace of Pedro Aguerre 'Axular', one of the most famous writers in the Basque language, who lived in the 17th century. He authored Gero ('After' in English), a major work of Basque literature. Among the town's major attractions are the 11th century San Salvador Monastery, the mill built in the 10th and 11th centuries, the magnificent caves of Ikaburu, the art exhibition and all the benefits of rural and cultural tourism, with quality as a hallmark. The town is divided into seven neighbourhoods:Alkerdi, Landibar, Leorlas, Telleria, Iribere, LarraintaandDantxarinea.

A route of about 9 km, which leads to the next stage in the Baztan Valley, before tackling the Belate Pass. Urdazubi/Urdax is home to the old Pilgrims' Hospital and current hostel. Urdazubi/Urdax is the ideal place for hikers, with its 4 marked trails that start from the town centre. In addition, the Xareta municipalities are connected by a path called "Pottok Trail". Small horses painted in blue on stones mark the route, which crosses peaceful meadows and forests . A not very demanding route, suitable for families or people who are not very fit.

From the Urdazubi/Urdax caves, follow the "pottok" in two possible directions: towards Zugarramurdi to reach Sare (around 8 km) or towards Urdazubi/Urdax to reach Dantxarinea and emerge at Ainhoa.

Local festivals coincide with Ascension and Pentecost in Dantxarinea. The 2nd Saturday of August is the Iron Day, with a reenactment of the arrival of the ore from Biscay to the village forge, as well as a craft market followed by a meal with musical entertainment.

In summer, three days are dedicated to Basque Pelota and in particular three of its modalities (xare, paleta and cesta punta). They end with a tasting of local products. Throughout the year, various events take place in the commercial area of Dantxarinea.

Tel. + 34 948 599 070

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