Day trips in Navarra: six must-see spots to make you feel like the star of your own movie

4 October 2024 | Out of route

Navarra is a land of contrasts, filled with landscapes that seem taken straight out of the best adventure, romance, and even fantasy films. At Zinema7 Hotel, we know some travelers seek to live their own epic scenes in breathtaking settings. That's why we’ve put together a list of six must-see spots for day trips in Navarra—places that, while we’d love to say can all be visited in a single day, are best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Maybe choose one or two stops per day to make the most of your adventure.

So, get ready, because these destinations will not only make you feel like Indiana Jones but will also let you experience some of the best hiking Navarra has to offer—all with our special cinematic touch. Ready to start?

Day Trips in Navarra - Bardenas Reales

1. Nacedero del Urederra: a picture-perfect oasis

We begin our journey with one of the most spectacular spots for day trips in Navarra: the Nacedero del Urederra. Its name means “beautiful water” in Basque, and it couldn’t be more fitting. This place, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, looks like the perfect set for a fantasy movie. Gandalf himself would probably take a break here after battling the Balrog.

Nacedero del Urederra is ideal for a relaxing day hike, filled with natural beauty. The main trail is easy, suitable for all ages, which makes it perfect for family outings or a stress-free escape. It's like someone combined the Paradise Falls from "Up" with the vibrant colors of "Avatar." You might wonder, what would Leonardo DiCaprio do here? Probably sit back and enjoy the view—without any sinking ships involved, of course.

2. Irati Forest: a walk in an enchanted woodland

If you’ve ever wanted to star in your own version of "The Lord of the Rings," Irati Forest is the perfect place for your day trips in Navarra. This is the second-largest beech and fir forest in Europe, only surpassed by Germany’s Black Forest. The atmosphere is magical, with a fairy-tale-like aura that makes you feel small amid the grandeur of nature.

Irati Forest features numerous hiking routes, suitable for all kinds of adventurers. You can choose more demanding, longer trails or take a lighter stroll where you can enjoy nothing but the crunch of leaves and birdsong. Doing hiking in Navarra routes like those in Irati is ideal for getting lost (safely) and enjoying the fresh air. Picture Sigourney Weaver battling aliens but, this time, surrounded by beeches and firs instead of spaceships—the same bravery, but with much more natural charm.

3. Bardenas Reales: lunar landscapes and Sergio Leone westerns

No day trip in Navarra would be complete without a visit to the Bardenas Reales. This semi-desert landscape, with its gravity-defying rock formations, looks like it came straight out of a spaghetti western. You could easily picture Clint Eastwood riding through this dusty scenery on horseback, hat tilted, wearing that signature scowl.

The Bardenas Reales are so impressive that they’ve even been used as a filming location for shows like "Game of Thrones." It’s easy to imagine dragons flying over these dramatic landscapes. On your visit, you can take on several trails perfect for hiking, where every step will transport you to another world. Whether by car, bike, or on foot, exploring Bardenas will make you feel like a true protagonist—just be sure to bring water, a hat, and resist the temptation to search for hidden treasure.

Day Trips in Navarra - Olite

4. Olite: a romantic journey back in time

Olite is the perfect destination for those looking to swap hiking for a trip back in time. This small town is famous for its stunning castle-palace, which looks like it’s right out of a medieval movie. Have you seen "The Name of the Rose"? Imagine Sean Connery walking through these mysterious halls, though with a bit less darkness and more fairy-tale charm.

The Royal Palace of Olite is one of those places you have to visit at least once. Wander its towers, stroll through its gardens, and be sure to take in the views from the top of the castle. If Romeo and Juliet had this option, we’re sure they would have avoided a lot of drama. After your visit, get lost in the cobblestone streets of the town and enjoy a glass of wine at a local winery. It’s the perfect day to let your imagination run wild and savor the romantic side of Navarra.

5. Zugarramurdi Caves: magic and legends in a mysterious setting

If we’re talking about day trips in Navarra, the Zugarramurdi Caves are a must-see for those who love legends and history. This place is known as the “cradle of witches,” with a mystical air that transports you to another time. In the 17th century, Zugarramurdi was the scene of witch trials and eerie tales—it's a place where reality and fantasy blend.

The main cave, with its enormous opening and underground river, is perfect for exploring on a mysterious stroll. It’s easy to picture a coven at this location, just like in classic horror films, but without the scares. What would Johnny Depp do here? Probably try to find the Mad Hatter and throw an underground tea party. The atmosphere is so intriguing that even Sherlock Holmes himself would be curious about the secrets it hides.

After exploring the caves, don’t miss the Witchcraft Museum, where you can learn more about the legends and history of this unique place. It's ideal for those looking for a different day trip, with a bit of dark flair without losing its charm.

6. Foz de Lumbier: nature in Its purest form, no stunt doubles needed

Foz de Lumbier is yet another perfect spot for hiking in Navarra and will make you feel like the protagonist of a great adventure. This gorge, carved out by the Irati River, offers an impressive landscape, with towering rock walls on either side that seem to shield you as you walk. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like Harrison Ford in "Indiana Jones" but without the giant boulder chasing you, this is the place.

The hiking trail through Foz de Lumbier is simple and follows the old path of a railway, making it ideal for all ages and fitness levels. During the hike, you’ll have the chance to spot griffon vultures soaring over the canyon, adding an extra level of spectacle to the experience. There's no whip needed, but the sense of adventure is definitely guaranteed.

If you visit, be sure to bring a good camera to capture the majesty of the scenery. You could easily make your own nature documentary in the style of David Attenborough—without the need for a British accent.

Choose your own cinematic adventure in Navarra

Navarra is a place of contrasts, where every corner seems designed to make you feel like the protagonist of a great story. Whether you’re looking for magical landscapes, western-style scenes, fairy-tale castles, or mysteries to unravel, day trips in Navarra offer all this and more.

Remember, it's impossible to visit all these places in just one day (not even with a DeLorean). We recommend choosing one or two of these options and making the most of each spot—take your time, savor each moment, as if you were in the climactic scene of your favorite movie.

Navarra awaits you with incredible hiking routes, stunning landscapes, and a story to tell at every step. At Zinema7 Hotel, we’ll be thrilled to welcome you after a day full of adventures, offering all the comfort and charm you need to keep dreaming of new expeditions. Let the show begin!

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