AAnyone who visits the Baztan Valley is captivated by its natural charm, its architecture, gastronomy and its people. You cannot miss the capital of the valley, the heart, from where you can start with different visits, excursions and spend a few days in the tranquility of this rural environment.
Delve into the valley from the beauty of its capital.
A tour of the key points
The Original Basque is a territory full of palaces, castles and fortresses, which is why we suggest you start Elizondo’s visit at the Arizkunenea Palace, with a large baroque-style stately façade dating from 1730. It served as the royal residence , but it belonged to a Baztan nobleman, Miguel Arizcun. Today it houses the House of Culture with painting and photography exhibitions. Not to be missed.
If you continue walking, you will see that the town is full of manor houses and palaces built by the Indianos (people who made their fortune in the Americas), leaving very attractive and beautiful routes.
You will arrive at the Church of Santiago, in a sober style and built on the basis of reddish stonework from the valley itself (16th century). As a curious fact, it is said that the stone with which the Kremlin and Red Square in Moscow were built comes out of the Baztan quarries.
Finally, one of the Ways of the Jacobean Route passes through Elizondo, the Baztan Way, which joins the French Way that comes from Roncesvalles, this section being one that is highly recommended due to its natural beauty and the pretty villages it crosses.
Elizondo, town of beautiful houses and the Way of St James
It should be noted that Elizondo is the protagonist in the book saga known as ‘The Baztan Trilogy’ by Dolores Redondo, which is why visiting the emblematic places that appear in the detective novel has become popular, being able to also see the Salazar Mantecadas, a place that remained after the recording of the film.
The most traditional festival
Baztandarren Biltzarra is the most important festival that has been celebrated since 1963 and represents the twinning between the towns that make up the Baztan Valley. It does not have a fixed date, but it is usually held on the first Sunday after the Sanfermines (July 6-14).
These festivities are usually surrounded by traditional music, typical dances of the valley with their corresponding colorful clothing, a good atmosphere among the people, and gastronomy.
The Original Basque offers you the best rural accommodation to enjoy this festival and the entire valley with comfort. The best rural hotels are found in The Original Basque territory.
Our recommended.:
- Hostal Trinquete Antxitonea
- Señorío de Ursúa
- Posada Elbete
- Donamariako Benta
- Hotel Irigoienea