SAN DONATO

Linear round trip route. Long Jump 9,2 km. Elevation 804 metres. Estimated tour time: 4 hours.

On this route we enjoyed one of the most beautiful views of the region, in addition to being able to see the hermitage of San Donato, the one that is at the highest altitude in Navarra.

We cross the town of Unanu until we reach a gravel track, 300 meters away there is a water tank and further on, a gate. The trail is very easy to follow. We continue climbing through a clearing until we reach a forest that we skirt. After one kilometer the road turns left.

We reach a curve with a fountain and an esplanade, a few meters away there is an intersection that marks the way to the summit, from this point the path towards Beriain becomes very steep.

After traveling 4,7 ascending kilometers we have reached the top and a few meters above an esplanade, we find the hermitage and refuge of San Donato.

We stopped to regain strength and eat something and returned along the same route we used to reach the summit.

PRACTICAL TIPS

-Much of the climb is along a rocky path, it is necessary to wear appropriate footwear and walking sticks, if you know how to use them.
-We will arrive at Unanu from the highway that connects Pamplona with Vitoria. At the end the road narrows so you will have to drive with caution. Unanu is a small town with beautiful hamlets, park trying to disturb as little as possible.

-The route is more or less signposted, with some stone mounds, but it is clear and easy to follow. We will leave along a gravel road and after several curves we will have to turn off onto a path directly to San Donato. Be alert on this detour.

-The path is steep, hard, and can be very long if you do not have a minimum of physical conditions. Check the weather conditions as this is a mountain route.

-The summit is a wide esplanade with magnificent views where cattle graze. In the hermitage of San Donato there is a small shelter.