Navarre is a region that stands out for its incredible diversity of landscapes, making it an ideal destination to discover by car.
Along its roads, you can go from the high mountains of the north to the valleys of the middle zone, and end up in the semi-desert areas of the south.
We suggest three different routes to explore each of these areas, where history, culture and nature will accompany you every kilometre of the way.
Route through the north of Navarre
The north of Navarre is an area marked by the beauty of its mountains and the tranquillity of its valleys. This route will take you to discover some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Navarrese Pyrenees.
Start your route in the Bidasoa Valley, an area noted for its forests and charming villages such as Doneztebe and Elizondo, where the Bidasoa River meanders through green mountains.
From there, you can continue on to Roncesvalles, an emblematic place due to its historical importance on the Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela. The Collegiate Church of Roncesvalles is an essential visit to understand the cultural and religious value of this enclave.
From Roncesvalles, head towards the Salazar Valley, where the impressive Irati Forest awaits you, the second largest beech forest in Europe. This natural setting is the perfect place to stop and enjoy a stroll along its paths.
Finally, follow your route to the Roncal Valley, known for its pastoral tradition and its famous Roncal cheese. Don’t miss the chance to visit villages such as Isaba, Roncal and Burgui, surrounded by great mountains.
Picture: Baztan river, Navarra, to Francis Vaquero
Route through the central area of Navarre
The central area of Navarre is the historic heart of the region, where you will find castles, monasteries and medieval villages. This route will allow you to delve into history and enjoy a rural setting full of charm.
Start the route with a visit to Olite Castle, one of the most impressive fortifications in Spain. This medieval castle, with its high towers and courtyards, will take you back to another era.
From Olite, continue on to the Monastery of Leyre, one of the oldest monasteries in Navarre, located in the foothills of the Sierra de Leyre, with views over the Yesa reservoir.
After exploring Leyre, you can head towards the Foz de Lumbier and the Foz de Arbayún, two impressive gorges through which the rivers Irati and Salazar flow. Both canyons offer spectacular views and are ideal places for hiking or simply enjoying nature in its purest state.
Picture: Olite Royal Palace, Navarra, to Francis Vaquero
Route through the south of Navarre
The south of Navarre offers a completely different landscape, with semi-desert areas and villages full of history. This route will take you through the region’s most contrasting landscapes.
Start your tour in Tudela, known for its Cathedral of Santa María and its rich gastronomic tradition based on garden produce.
From Tudela, continue on to the Bardenas Reales, a unique spot declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, where the desert landscape and rock formations will make you feel as if you were on Mars.
To complete the route, visit villages such as Fitero, famous for its Cistercian monastery and thermal springs, or Corella, a town known for its Baroque heritage.
Picture: Bardenas Reales, Navarra, to Francis Vaquero
With these routes by car, you can discover the incredible diversity of Navarre, from its mountains in the north to the deserts of the south, and its rich history in the midlands.
Each trip will allow you to enjoy rural tourism in Navarre, discover charming villages and explore unique landscapes.
