URKULU TOWER
ORBAIZETA WEAPONS FACTORY
A route that starts from the ruins of the Orbaizeta weapons factory, and goes into the beech forests until reaching the first peaks of the Pyrenees at the Urkulu tower, from where we will enjoy a wide panoramic view. At the top we will find a robust stone construction, built by Rome in the 4,5st century BC, to commemorate the conquest of Aquitaine. It reached XNUMX m in height and its silhouette can be seen from afar, marking the border, and serving as a guide, then for the hardworking legions, and now, for the hikers. A somewhat long but varied route, at one of the extremes of Navarra, and in the foothills of the Irati Forest and the Pyrenees.
Route 12,4 km. Circular.
TIPS
-The Orbaizeta Weapons Factory is more than an hour from Pamplona, the road is in good condition, but it has quite a few curves, drive with caution.
-The route we recommend starts at the Weapons Factory. It can be a bit long, and it could be shortened by driving to the fields of Azpegi, where there is a parking lot, but we would miss the spectacular beech forests that we will find along the way.
-You can see some menhirs scattered throughout the meadows and the Cromlechs of Azpegi, with circular geometry.
-The last section is the hardest. At the top, the Urkulu tower awaits us, which is spectacular due to its location, its robust construction and the panoramic views of the Pyrenees. You can climb the tower via a kind of stone staircase on one side.
-We return via the road, which has very little traffic.
-Very close is one of the accesses to the Irati Forest that we recommend you visit.
WHERE TO SLEEP
Auñamendi rural hotel. In the center of Ochagavía, one of the most beautiful towns in Navarra and a stone's throw from the Irati Forest, we find this charming rural hotel. In a traditional house, the family business opened fifty years ago, and after its complete renovation in 2014, they maintain their enthusiasm and close customer service.
Hotel Rural Besaro. In Izalzu – Itzaltzu is this charming hotel, a privileged place 3 km from Ochagavía, and a stone's throw from the Irati Forest and the Roncal valley. In it you will experience the pleasure of being in the middle of nature and find a pleasant place to rest from the days of sightseeing in your garden or in the living room in the warmth of your fireplace.
Iratiko Rural Hostel Urkixokoa. Orbaiceta. This country house serves a buffet breakfast. You can dine and it offers a terrace. The property has a shared lounge. Cycling and hiking can be enjoyed nearby. A fairly new place and in a beautiful location.
Here is a selection of the best establishments where you can eat in the surrounding area.
ACCOMMODATIONS AROUND THE IRATI JUNGLEPLACES TO EAT
Here you have a selection of the best establishments where you can eat in the surroundings of the Irati Forest.
RESTAURANTS AROUND THE IRATI JUNGLEZoom in on the map to see its location.
