A medieval church, a dark cave tunnel and the climb to the Basilica of Santiago de Lokiz give you several reasons to stay in Ollobarren. If you want to combine culture with time outdoors, you can plan architecture and trails as separate highlights. Decide whether historical architecture or a hike with a clearly named natural destination better suits your stay.
Church and local history
The parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción is a medieval building dating from the early 13th century and was partly altered in the 16th century. Its entrance portal is defined by a pointed arch, diamond-decorated archivolts and figurative capitals. Archivolts are decorative bands that follow the curve of an arch; capitals form the upper ends of columns. These terms help you distinguish the shape of the arch from the portal’s decoration. The furnishings also reflect several periods. The Baroque tower was built in 1673 by the masters Juan Ruiz de Galarreta and José de Lagurrea, who came from Estella. The main altarpiece, dating from the Rococo period, contains a seated Madonna and Child in the Hispano-Flemish style, from around 1500. The tower and altarpiece represent different periods; the figure adds an older historical layer to the furnishings. In 1280, Ollobarren was a royal domain.
Hiking destinations and trail characteristics
The route to the Agujero de Ollobarren starts at the church in Ollobarren, on the NA-7310 road near kilometre 3, and is signposted with white and yellow markings. Check the markings on site. The destination is a dark cave tunnel about 30 metres long, for which no torch is required. Take care on rocky terrain. If you are interested in a distinctive natural formation, this is a clearly defined reason to go for a hike. Another destination is the Basilica of Santiago de Lokiz: the climb there from Ollobarren is 7.4 km long. On the return route to Ollobarren, the trail passes the chapel of Santa Eulalia. Check route conditions before setting out, as they can change. The tunnel trail and the climb have different destinations: a dark cave formation in the first case, and the basilica, with the chapel on the way back, in the second.
Landscape and local details
Ollobarren lies at the foot of the Lóquiz escarpment. The walk offers views of the Sierra de Lokiz and its panorama. The escarpment location and the views of the Sierra describe two different perspectives: the village’s geographical setting and the scenery along the way. Downy oaks and holm oaks are part of the natural surroundings and among the tourist attractions. Heraldic shields on some houses are among Ollobarren’s sights.
Practical information
To the south, behind a gate, there is a shelter with a fire pit and covered seating at a table. If you are considering it as a place to take a break, check its condition and availability on site.
For the broader travel guide: Metauten.
