Holidays in Spain: waterfalls, lakes, swimming... 5 “nature” outings in Navarre

Some 17 kilometers away is the Foz de Arbayun. Stretching over 6 kilometers, it is the longest in Navarre. Like its neighbor, Lumbier, these two sites were declared nature reserves in 1987, as well as "areas dedicated to the protection of birds." Don't forget your binoculars, because, in this landscape of high green cliffs, birds of prey soar happily.

The Salazar River, which carved out the canyon, has a fairly limited flow and is rather difficult to access. Therefore, the spot is not necessarily suitable for swimming. As for the hike, it is done via a dizzying path carved into the rock, not recommended for children or people with vertigo. For the less adventurous, the Iso viewpoint offers a spectacular panorama from which you can appreciate its magnitude. Simply sumptuous.

In the Baztán Valley, starting from the very pretty village of Erratzu, a small paved road through fields and hills leads to the hidden waterfall of Xorroxin (approximately 2 hours round trip for 7.5 km). You soon follow the Iñarbeko erreka stream until you reach a small waterfall followed by the most imposing one. The place is shaded and, in the middle of summer, the natural pool at the foot of Xorroxin is a blessing for walkers. Be careful: the spot is quite crowded in the summer season.

Leurtza Embalse

Still in Baztán, near Lekunberri, the two Leurtza reservoirs, built for hydroelectricity, are popular with hikers in the Southern Basque Country. Surrounded by forests and green meadows, they make for a refreshing walk accessible to all, including those with reduced mobility. Swimming is possible. And a 12-kilometer hike from the site allows you to climb to the summit of Mount Soratxipi (1,069 m). During the climb, you can glean beautiful viewpoints of the dam and, at the summit, a vast panorama of the mountainous area. Parking at the site is paid: 3 euros.

Located a short trip from Pamplona, ​​this narrow, 1-kilometer-long gorge was sculpted by the waters of the Isaba River. They have carved out steep walls reaching up to 200 meters in height. It is possible to explore the area on foot or by bike, and even with a stroller, as the access paths are so wide. You will still have to pass two caverns dug into the rock, remnants of an old railway line, to reach a fairly deep body of water, where it is possible to swim. Those who are sensitive to the cold should refrain, as swimming is done in the shade in water coming straight from the Pyrenees. Water sports enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the site by rafting. It's an opportunity to cut through the waters of the Irati and contemplate this canyon from the inside.

Cubo Waterfall