Izal is a small village in Salazar valley, placed in the heart of the Navarre Pyrenees, with a great variety of landscapes and high peaks which overlook Irati forest, a broad forest which offers as many sensations as colours in each season.
In the valley, you will find a huge number of paths where to get lost and a great architectonic heritage: medieval churches, chapels with amazing views and well preserved funerary steles.
You will be able to visit the nearby Roncal and Aezkoa Valleys or discover the Aspurz, Arbayun and Lumbier gorges, which have a diverse fauna and flora with high ecologic value.
Come to Know us!
Arburua chapel
One of the most charming chapels in Navarre. The walk starts in Izal and we assure you that the beautiful views that you will enjoy are worth: Pyrenees mountains (Bisaurin mount stands out), Salazar Valley and Abodi-Ori zone. Besides, the beauty of the surrounding of the chapel enables, if the weather is good, to stop and have a snack there. Ah, don´t forget to ring the bell!
Irati Forest
One of the most valuable natural settings in Europe, a treasure which hides 17,000 hectares of beeches and firs among other kinds of trees and bushes. It holds dozens of trails to walk and get hypnotized by the alluring leafy scenery which fills the mountainside with lively colours. In the middle of Irati forest, you will find Irabia reservoir.
Benasa Gorge
Even if it is one of the least well known gorges in Navarra, a stroll inside becomes an exciting adventure. Perfect summer excursion, when the riverbed is small enough to walk along. In addition, can you think of a better way to finish the excursion than having a bath in the middle of this peaceful natural corner?(In July and August, the Townhall in Navascués enables the bathing area of the river pool). It has also got a picnic area and open fire.
Leyre Monastery
Monastery which lies in the hillside of the mountain range of Leyre, natural border with Salazar Valley. It was built in an isolated spot, viewpoint over near peaks and distant mountain ranges, as well as the nearby Yesa Reservoir. The monastery hides wonderful treasures such as the 11th century crypt, the gothic vault or “Porta Speciosa”, a perfect Romanesque doorway from the XII century. You will be able to discover the natural beauty of the surroundings by walking along some of the routes which start there, such as Saint Virila Fountain, Escalar Mountain, Paso del Oso...
Arbayun Gorge
Salazar river arrives from the Pyrenees and cuts its way through the mountains creating the Arbayun Gorge, 5,6 km long, with stunning walls over 300 metres high. On your way to Izal, you can visit the viewpoint of the gorge, where you will enjoy astonishing views.
Chapel of Our Lady of Muskilda
Romanesque chapel in the summit of mount Muskilda, which can be reached either on foot or by road, is at an altitude of more than 1000 metres. In September, when festivities in Ochagavia are celebrated, the peace of the place is shattered and the town dancers surround Muskilda with their original dances led by the “bobo”.
Orreaga-Roncesvalles
Crossing point where both history and legend melt as well as favourite starting point of pilgrims to begin Saint James´ Way. The monumental complex of the Collegiata Church of Orreaga/Roncesvalles, former pilgrim hospital, and the tomb of king Sancho VII The Strong, is an excellent example of medieval architecture. Mythical place.
Cornota Rock
Specially beautiful route which will lead you up to one of the most amazing and gorgeous natural viewpoints in Navarre. A natural vantage point, with a precipice at your feet over Arbayun Gorge, with a stunning landscape and vertical rock faces which reach a height of more than 300 metres. A big part of the route runs along paths and tracks, but there is another part which runs throughout wilder zones and you have to let your own sense of direction guide you and follow cattle tracks. It is also a natural breeding place for vultures.
Castle of Javier
The Castle of Javier is placed on a hill in Javier, 6 kms far from Sangüesa. It dates back to the tenth century and it was both birthplace and residence of Saint Francisco Javier. It is a pilgrimage point, specially at the beginning of March, in the so called “Javieradas”. It has been considered as an Asset of Cultural Interest since 1994.
