Attractions and Places To See around Irurtzun - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Irurtzun, a town in Navarre, Spain, include a mix of natural landscapes and historical sites. The region is characterized by its river valleys, such as the Larraun River, and prominent rock formations. Irurtzun serves as a base for exploring both local landmarks and nearby natural areas and towns.
Best attractions and places to see around Irurtzun
- The most popular attractions is Plazaola Greenway, a cycle_way that follows an old railway line through an idyllic river valley. Large sections of the path are unpaved, and some tunnels require a light.
- Another must-see spot is Aixita Castle Ruins, a castle and viewpoint. This fortified promontory from the Middle Ages offers views of the Sakana corridor and the Larraun river valley.
- Visitors also love Lekunberri, a settlement located in the Larraun valley. This Navarrese town has historical significance as a former border place and customs activity center.
- Irurtzun is known for its cycle routes, historical ruins, and nearby towns. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, from scenic greenways to ancient castles and charming settlements.
- The attractions around Irurtzun are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and 3 photos shared.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Plazaola Greenway
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Aixita Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Those who have vertigo should refrain. Really.
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Lekunberri
Highlight • Settlement
The Ayestaran hotel, opened in 1912, is one of the most emblematic businesses and buildings in the town, since famous people such as Ernest Hemingway, Orson Welles and Alcalá Zamora have stayed in its rooms.
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Plazaola Greenway (Lekunberri–Leitza)
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Plazaola Greenway
Highlight • Cycleway
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Tips from the Community
First section of Via Verde de Plazuela. We leave Pamplona suburbs. First part on a new road, a very quiet conventional circuit, at some point we will have to be careful because we cross some road although with little traffic, the average route passes through a road parallel to the old national road where we go through a tunnel that is shared with vehicles, regulated by traffic lights, to cross two imposing rock formations known as The Two Sisters, while we border both sides of the river. The route gains as we advance, gaining splendor in the last 5-8 km. where it fully follows the old train path, surrounded by vegetation, for about 3 km. Before reaching Lekunberri, a waterfall and springs that come down from the mountain stand out. Easy circuit, although at some points there are some slopes that we then have to go down.
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The Plazaola greenway is located along the EV1.
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If the ground is wet, be a little careful when going up and down.
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Impressive remains of the castle.
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Well signposted and well indicated.
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Historical notes of Aicita Castle
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Rock castle prepared for the incursions of the Castilians from Guipúzcoa
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Navarrese town located in the Larraun valley. Historically it has been a border place, and its own name, which means "new site", indicates that it was destroyed and rebuilt in 1430. It originally consisted of a palace and a defensive tower. It was also important for its customs activity already in the 12th century, since taxes were collected here from merchants who entered the Kingdom of Navarre. The Ayestaran hotel, opened in 1912, is one of the most emblematic businesses and buildings in the town, since famous people such as Ernest Hemingway, Orson Welles and Alcalá Zamora have stayed in its rooms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Irurtzun?
Irurtzun is surrounded by natural beauty. You can hike or cycle along the scenic Plazaola Greenway, a former railway line following the Larraun River. Don't miss the impressive "Dos Hermanas" Rock Formations and the Mirador de los Buitres (Vulture's Balcony) for stunning views and wildlife spotting. Monte Erga, with its Trinity hermitage, also offers beautiful natural surroundings.
Are there any historical sites to visit in Irurtzun?
Yes, Irurtzun has several historical sites. Explore the ruins of Aixita Castle Ruins, a medieval fortified promontory offering panoramic views. The Casa de la Cultura, housed in a medieval church, retains a beautiful 13th-century Gothic portal. You can also see the Old Bridge over the Larraun River with its distinctive semicircular arches, and the Church of San Martín, which houses a Gothic Virgin figure.
What is the Plazaola Greenway like for cycling or hiking?
The Plazaola Greenway is a scenic path perfect for both hiking and cycling, following an old railway line through an idyllic river valley. Be aware that large sections are unpaved, making it less suitable for racing bikes. There are also several unlit tunnels, so bringing a bike light is essential. A particularly beautiful section can be found in the last 5-8 kilometers before Lekunberri, featuring a waterfall and mountain springs.
Are there family-friendly activities or trails near Irurtzun?
Absolutely! The Lekunberri area, a charming town nearby, is considered family-friendly. For walks, the route to the source of the Iribas River is highly recommended for families. The Plazaola Greenway also offers relatively flat sections suitable for family cycling or walking, though some parts are unpaved.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Irurtzun?
Beyond exploring the attractions, Irurtzun is a great base for outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, mountain biking trails, and general cycling tours. For detailed routes and options, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Irurtzun, MTB Trails around Irurtzun, and Cycling around Irurtzun guides.
Where can I find the best viewpoints in the Irurtzun area?
For breathtaking views, head to the Aixita Castle Ruins, which offer panoramic vistas of the Sakana corridor, the Larraun river valley, and Irurtzun town. The Mirador de los Buitres (Vulture's Balcony) near the "Dos Hermanas" rock formations is another excellent spot to observe the landscape and local wildlife.
What is Lekunberri, and why should I visit it?
Lekunberri is a charming Navarrese town located in the Larraun valley, about 14 kilometers from Irurtzun. It has significant historical importance as a former border and customs activity center. The town is also a starting point for a beautiful section of the Plazaola Greenway and is home to the emblematic Ayestaran hotel, which has hosted famous personalities.
Are there any challenging hikes or climbs near Irurtzun?
For those seeking a challenge, the ascent to Aixita Castle Ruins is considered challenging, offering a unique low-level mountaineering experience. The path can be slippery when wet, so caution is advised. The views from the top, however, are incredibly rewarding.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Irurtzun?
Visitors particularly enjoy the scenic beauty of the Plazaola Greenway, often described as one of Spain's most beautiful greenways, with its breathtaking landscapes and tunnels. The panoramic views from Aixita Castle Ruins, especially the opportunity to see vultures below, are also highly appreciated. The historical charm of towns like Lekunberri adds to the overall appeal.
Can I find other natural sites like waterfalls or springs nearby?
Yes, from Irurtzun, you can easily access other stunning natural areas. These include the Ollo Valley, the Arteta Spring (Nacedero de Arteta), and the Artazul Waterfall (Cascada de Artazul). The route to the source of the Iribas River is also a popular natural excursion.
Is the Plazaola Greenway accessible for everyone?
While some sections of the Plazaola Greenway are noted as being wheelchair accessible and relatively flat, it's important to know that large parts are unpaved and can be washed out. Some tunnels also require a light. For specific accessibility details on a particular section, it's best to check local information.
What is the Sanctuary of San Miguel de Aralar, and how far is it?
The Sanctuary of San Miguel de Aralar is an enchanting Romanesque sanctuary located near Lekunberri, offering impressive panoramic views and a rich history. It's approximately 10 km from Uharte-Arakil, which is close to Irurtzun, making it a feasible and rewarding day trip.
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