Larraun is a municipality of extensive oak and beech forests, with its meadows and towns of large hamlets. The Sierra de Aralar, due to its karst nature, acts like a sponge, absorbing all the rainwater. In fact, there are no rivers in the mountains. It doesn't take long for so many underground waters to emerge, part of them in the Aitzarrateta spring. It does so under the name of the Ertzilla River, but, just 800 m further down, the river disappears and will not reappear until it reaches near Iribas, collecting new springs, and now under the name of the Larraun River. The route we have chosen takes us on a pleasant walk to get to know this unique place.
The visit is guided and lasts 60 minutes. Make your reservation in advance and go warm as temperatures are 8º C.
Larraun has beautiful panoramic views, highlighting these two viewpoints with their views of Aralar and the Malloas.
Aralar has the densest set of megalithic monuments in Navarra. Those of Larrazpil, Oderitz or Iribas stand out, among many others.
The longest Greenway tunnel in Europe. Although it is illuminated, it is recommended to always carry a flashlight or headlamp, and circulate through the center of it.
At the top the sanctuary of San Miguel awaits us, which can be reached on a 20 km round trip walk.
Town of large farmhouses, whose ramps to the under-decks warn us that the grass was kept there.
In a confusion of names, the Ertzilla River emerges first, perhaps the shortest river in the world, due to how quickly it disappears.
-Right at the entrance to Iribas you will find a large parking lot. Some signs will indicate the beginning of the route.
-The route is quite flat, very pleasant and with places of great beauty. We recommend that you pay special attention to the place where the river disappears and where it reappears, a true curiosity of nature.
WHAT TO DO IN THE SURROUNDINGS
Distance 5 km, circular