Enjoy the magnificent beech forest of Irati Forest. Escape to Irati Forest and walk through this wonderful natural park, enjoying its unparalleled beauty. Irati Forest is a natural paradise open to visitors all year round. You can enjoy walks and hikes on foot or mountain bike. Excursions are suitable for all ages. At the information point upon arriving at Irati Forest, you will be offered a map highlighting 16 clearly marked trails. You will find an informative panel at the beginning of each trail, and there are routes of less than 10 kilometers with flat paths, allowing for a relaxed and leisurely experience.
Irati Forest is the second largest and pristine beech forest in Europe, after the Black Forest in Germany. It covers about 17,000 hectares and is surrounded by mountains in the eastern Pyrenees of Navarre, extending across Spain and France. Its dense beech forests form a spectacular multicolored canvas of unparalleled wild beauty. We invite you to have a personal encounter with yourself in nature. Enjoy the symphony of water among beech trees, the pure air, the life of the Irati River, the sounds of animals, the fallen leaves in autumn, and the aroma of forest fruits. Wear comfortable attire for the mountain, walk through Irati Forest, and explore what suits your preferences, as there is a lot to choose from.
Many characters from Basque mythology inhabit the forest, such as sorginas (witches) and lamias who use the mist to bring the spirit of Doña Juana de Labrit – a poisoned Huguenot queen in Paris – be cautious if you encounter them, as they make people disappear in their wake. You may also come across the Basajaun (lord of the forest), a giant with long hair and great strength; some have compared him to the Yeti in appearance. He protects you, and you must obey him for him to take care of you while you are in his territory, the forest.
From Casa Rural Arce Pirineo, the information point is only 22 kilometers away on a well-signposted road. More precisely, you access it through the Aezkoa valley, specifically through Garralda – Orbaizeta – Arrazola.