Located in the Navarrese Pyrenees, in an environment of nature and tradition that offers products of great artisan quality, the Roncal Valley and its cheeses stand out as one of the most authentic products of the region. These cheeses, with their unique flavour and artisan production, are undoubtedly one of the most representative gastronomic jewels of the valley.
This valley is not only known for its mountains, but also for being the place of origin of the first cheese in Spain to receive the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) in 1981, a recognition that highlights the quality and authenticity of this artisan product. Roncal cheese reflects the character of the valley and its shepherds, who, over the centuries, have perfected the production techniques to offer a unique cheese with an intense flavour and unmistakable texture.
Roncal cheese is deeply linked to the landscape of the valley, which is home to some of the highest peaks in Navarre, such as the valleys of Belagua, Belabarce and Larra, where the latxas and carranzanas sheep
The cheese is made with raw milk from Latxa sheep, an autochthonous breed perfectly adapted to the conditions of the valley. It is made using a completely artisan process that has lasted for centuries, using only milk, rennet and salt, with no artificial additives. The cheese is matured for a minimum of four months, which gives it its characteristic flavour, slightly spicy and with hints of dried fruit.
Photograph: Roncal cheese of Navarra
Life in the valley
The Roncal Valley is much more than landscapes of green meadows and forests, it is also a place full of history and culture.
The valley is crossed by the river Esca, where it preserves centuries-old traditions and events of great cultural interest, such as the Day of the Almadías, a celebration of the region’s river tradition that has been recognised as a national tourist attraction.
Each of its villages, such as Isaba, Roncal, Burgui, Garde, Vidángoz, Urzainqui and Uztárroz, conserves traditional architecture, with stone houses and sloping roofs.
In addition to its cultural heritage, the valley offers numerous opportunities for nature lovers. Well-marked trails run through mountains and forests, and allow you to enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling and bird-watching.
The Cañada Real de los Roncaleses route
One of the best ways of getting to know the Roncal cheese-making process at first hand is to follow the Cañada Real de los Roncaleses, a historic route used by the shepherds of the valley to guide their sheep southwards in search of pasture during the winter.
This route, which runs through the heart of the Roncal Valley, connects the northern and southern lands of Navarre and offers the opportunity to discover the landscapes where the Latxa sheep graze freely. By following this route, not only will you immerse yourself in the history of shepherding, but you will also have the chance to taste this cheese in the villages along the ravine.
Along the way, in Isaba, Roncal and Burgui, you can discover local producers offering Roncal cheese tastings. By following this historic route, travellers can gain a better understanding of how traditional shepherding has influenced the quality of the cheese and enjoy an experience that combines adventure, culture and gastronomy.
Natural and cultural wealth
The Roncal Valley is not only famous for its cheese, but also for its incredible scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
The villages that make up the valley reflect a history of shepherding and traditions that are still alive today. During your visit, you can enjoy walks through the green valleys, learn about ancient shepherding techniques, and of course, taste the cheese in its different degrees of maturity, which range from four months to more than nine months.
This corner of Navarre is the perfect destination for those looking for an authentic experience, where gastronomy and history come together to offer unforgettable moments.
