Explore Etxarri-Aranatz through its hiking trails and local history. The routes lead to dolmen remains and through forested areas; in the historic town center, the line of the former town wall is still visible.
Hiking: Dolmens, Elevation Gain and Forest
The Dolmen Route is a 13.7-kilometer circular hiking trail with an elevation gain of 642 meters. It passes through a forested area and features the remains of ten dolmens. Two marked trails on the Dolmen Route each start at the campsite. Check the trail markers and conditions locally.
The Meyetza Route climbs from Barga to the upper part of the Sierra de Urbasa. It is about 6 kilometers long and has an elevation gain of approximately 540 meters. This route requires preparation. When planning, therefore, consider not only the distance but also the climb.
The Route of the Old Oaks lies within the Sierra de Aralar Special Protection Area. It is a 4.61-kilometer circular trail with a low difficulty level. Information boards along the route point out tree and shrub species; their condition may change, so it is worth checking them on site. Even on an easy trail, wet weather can affect walking conditions.
The comparison includes two circular trails and a climb from Barga to the upper part of the Sierra de Urbasa. At 4.61 kilometers, the Route of the Old Oaks is the shortest of the three; at 13.7 kilometers, the Dolmen Route is the longest, while Meyetza is about 6 kilometers long. This lets you weigh up distance, elevation gain and route profile when choosing your own hike.
Traces of Local History and Architecture
Etxarri-Aranatz has medieval origins associated with a defensive function. In the historic town center, the line of the former town wall is still visible. The remains of the wall provide a tangible link to the town’s history in the streetscape.
The church is a building in a very late Gothic style, dating from the first third of the 17th century. Its two-story Neoclassical portico has three round-arched openings on the lower level and three semicircular windows on the upper level. The two levels and the recurring groups of three define the portico’s design.
The origins of a chapel may also date back to the Middle Ages.
Meyetza and the Events Calendar
The Meyetza celebration takes place on May 1. Residents climb up to place a tree on the mountain ridge, where it can be seen from far away. The exact details of the event may vary.
For many years, a mycological exhibition has been held in Etxarri-Aranatz every October. It focuses on mushrooms, other fungi and plants. Dates and format may vary; if you plan to attend, check the specific details in advance.
Plan Your Stay Around Your Interests
Discover more destinations: Zariquiegui, Gartzain, Noáin, Ayegui, Azuelo, Alsasua, Doneztebe, Villafranca.
View the main travel guide: Navarra.
