LEURTZA RESERVOIR
Circle route. Long Jump 7,35 km. Elevation 468 metres. Estimated tour time: 3 hours
The route begins next to the reservoir parking lot, following the paved path towards the picnic area. To the left is the picnic area with tables and barbecues ready to make a fire. A little further on are a fountain and toilets.
Three hundred meters from the beginning of the route we find a fork in the road, we take the short path on the left marked with white and yellow milestones. After traveling about 300 meters we arrived at the dam.
We began an ascending section and at a distance of approximately 1,1 kilometers, we crossed a bridge over a stream, walked another 200 meters and reached a menhir. A little further on we find another fork in the path and continue to the right. The markings are white, yellow and red.
After traveling a kilometer we reach a type of rock road and 900 meters further on we find the Pittortzar dolmen, which is part of an archaeological site. We advance a little further to the next information post for the different trails and follow the one marked with white and yellow marks.
Depending on the weather, you might encounter a bit of fog. About a kilometer away there is a large pigeon house on a tree to the right of the road.
Next, we encounter the hardest slope of the route and we advance one kilometer to the top of Soratxipi. We enjoy the impressive views and descend 1,5 kilometers to an intersection in the path, the one on the left leads to the Bonozorrotz, the one on the right takes us to the beginning of the route.
It is a constant slope until we reach a ridge at the edge of the path, a few meters further on there is a fountain and we only have to walk a little until we reach the reservoirs again.
PRACTICAL TIPS
– In Urrotz some signs show us the direction to the reservoirs. The road is in good condition but it is narrow and with many curves so you will have to drive with caution.
– Depending on the days and time of year, you may be charged a small fee per vehicle. There is an information booth, toilets and a picnic area.
– Parking costs €3. There are barbecues for those who wish to use them, this is the only place in the park where lighting a fire is allowed.
– Bathing is allowed.
– The recreational area around the reservoir is adapted for people with reduced mobility.
– There is a route that goes completely around the reservoirs, comfortable and well signposted.
– The climb to Soratxipi is steep, especially in its final section. You will enjoy a wide panoramic view.
