Vía Verde del Bidasoa: The Best-Kept Secret Among the Valleys of Navarre
Imagine a trail that winds between forests, crystal-clear rivers, and picture-postcard villages. A path where, as you cycle or walk, the murmur of the Bidasoa accompanies you and every tunnel hides stories from the past. That is the Vía Verde del Bidasoa: much more than a cycling route, it is an experience for the senses and the soul, perfect for those seeking untouched nature, adventure, and true disconnection.
Few travelers know this corner of northern Navarre. Unlike other overcrowded greenways, here you will find peace, fresh air, and the hospitality of its people. The Vía Verde del Bidasoa connects Irún and Elizondo, following the trail of the legendary “Tren Txikito”, a mining railway that for decades witnessed smugglers, shepherds, and dreamlike travelers.
Why is this section of the Vía Verde del Bidasoa special?
Because it has it all: hand-dug tunnels, bridges that span impossible ravines, secret pools where you can cool off in summer, and an always-green setting, even in the middle of August. It is perfect to explore by bike, on foot, with family, as a couple, alone… or with your pet! And best of all, you can start right here, at Casa Angiz, in the heart of Sunbilla, the most beautiful and least crowded stretch of the entire route.
“There are paths you walk with your feet, and others that stay forever etched in your memory. The Vía Verde del Bidasoa is one of them.”
Table of contents
To see how to combine nature, history, and gastronomy in a single getaway, there is nothing like our post about Sunbilla, a charming Navarrese village
What is the Vía Verde del Bidasoa?
The Vía Verde del Bidasoa is one of the most surprising routes in northern Navarre. This former railway line, converted into a nature trail, crosses green landscapes, historic tunnels, and charming villages such as Sunbilla, Legasa, and Bera, right in the Bidasoa region. Perfect for walking or cycling, it is ideal for disconnecting, breathing fresh air, and discovering the essence of the most authentic Navarre.
If you are looking for a peaceful, family-friendly experience in contact with nature, this cycling route is for you. Its low difficulty, well-marked path, and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal option for all kinds of travelers: from experienced hikers to families with children.
📍 The Vía Verde del Bidasoa connects key points between Navarre and the Basque Country, forming part of the major European route EuroVelo 1 and the cross-border project Ederbidea.
In this article you will discover everything you need to plan your visit: the full map, the best sections, what to see, practical tips, exclusive photos, and a guide to staying comfortably at Casa Angiz, in Sunbilla, the heart of the route.
Get ready to explore one of the most magical greenways in Navarre! 🌿
Everything you need to know before traveling the Vía Verde del Bidasoa
If you are planning a cycling route through Navarre, the Vía Verde del Bidasoa is one of the best options available. Below I give you some essential practical details to make the most of this experience:
Technical features of the route
- Total length: The full route is approximately 42 km, making it perfect to do in one or two days.
- Total elevation gain: Minimal, just 83 meters, ideal for beginners and families with children.
- Terrain type: Mostly flat with stretches of compacted dirt, concrete, and asphalt, which makes it easy to travel both by bike and on foot.
- Tunnels: The route has 7 tunnels, some lit and others darker where it is recommended to bring lights or a flashlight.
Highlighted towns and points of interest
Along the Vía Verde del Bidasoa you will find picturesque villages and must-see stops such as:
- Oieregi: usual starting point, known for its proximity to the Señorío de Bertiz Natural Park.
- Legasa: famous for its quiet hidden pools, ideal for cooling off in summer.
- Sunbilla: a charming rural town offering bars and typical restaurants where you can try local cuisine.
- Bera de Bidasoa: a Basque village with traditional architecture and a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a stop.
- Behobia-Irún: final point in Gipuzkoa, connecting with other international cycling routes such as EuroVelo 1 and the Ederbidea project.
Essential services along the route
The route is well equipped with various essential services for travelers:
- Rest areas: there are several picnic areas with tables and benches for a break.
- Bars and restaurants: you will find local establishments in almost every village the route passes through, perfect for enjoying pintxos and typical Navarrese dishes.
- Bicycle rental: available in towns such as Sunbilla, Doneztebe, or Irún, making it easier to organize your trip.
- Accommodation: rural houses, hotels, and hostels in the villages mentioned, especially highlighting the rural tranquility of accommodations such as our own Casa Angiz in Sunbilla.
Key tips to fully enjoy the Vía Verde del Bidasoa
After my many experiences on this route, I share these brief personal tips to make the most of it:
- Always carry enough water, especially in summer, as some stretches have no nearby fountains.
- Don’t forget a headlamp or lights for the tunnels, especially if you are with children or traveling on cloudy days or in low light.
- Plan your route according to your fitness level; remember that the route is easy, but 42 km can be demanding for some travelers.
- Take the opportunity to visit nearby villages, so you can better understand the local culture and enjoy a complete experience.
Traveling the Vía Verde del Bidasoa is not only a pleasant cycling experience, but also a unique opportunity to connect with Navarrese nature and culture in a privileged setting.
Very close to Sunbilla is one of the most visited spots in the area: the Señorío de Bértiz, a natural area ideal for hiking with family or as a couple.
📈 The Vía Verde del Bidasoa will reach Elizondo in 2026: new cycling stage
🚴♀️ Great news for lovers of cycling tourism in Navarre! The Vía Verde del Bidasoa will be extended with a new branch of 15.3 km to Elizondo. Work will begin in the coming months, after its official publication in the BON and with funding secured thanks to Next Generation European funds. The execution of this section will be led by Cederna-Garalur with a planned investment of 1.57 million euros.
🛤️ Reconnecting with the legendary Tren Txikito
With this extension, the old route of the Tren Txikito will be completed, a railway line that connected the heart of Baztan with Irún and ceased operating in 1956. The future route will allow you to travel from Elizondo to the French border along a fully prepared and safe cycling itinerary.
🌳 Sections and key points of the new route
- Section 1: Doneztebe – Oronoz-Mugairi (passing by the medieval Reparacea bridge).
- Section 2: Oronoz-Mugairi – Arraioz (near the future Baztan-Bidasoa vocational training center).
- Section 3: Arraioz – Elizondo, passing through Irurita, Gartzain, the Lekaroz campus, and a footbridge over the Baztan River.
The route will cross areas of great ecological value, such as the surroundings of the Señorío de Bertiz Natural Park, where work will be limited to minimal actions such as light clearing and occasional pothole repairs.
🧭 What does this mean for visitors?
The connection to Elizondo will not only make new circular and longer routes easier from Sunbilla, Doneztebe, and Casa Angiz, but will also expand tourism and educational opportunities in the area. This section will make it possible to connect with historic towns and dreamlike landscapes throughout the Baztan Valley.
🚴 Can you imagine starting your route in Elizondo and ending at the French border by the sea? With the future extension of the Vía Verde del Bidasoa, it will be possible to enjoy a route of more than 57 km through valleys, rivers, tunnels, and charming villages.
👉 Keep discovering all the tips for organizing your getaway or explore other nearby routes such as the Vía Verde del Plazaola.
If you are looking for a destination where history, nature, and gastronomy come together, don’t miss our complete guide to Santesteban (Doneztebe) 🏞️.
Discover its most photogenic spots, hiking routes, popular festivals, and the best places to eat. Get ready to fall in love with this charming village!
🚲 Where to rent bikes for the Vía Verde del Bidasoa?
If you don’t have a bike yet, don’t worry: just a step away from Casa Angiz, in Santesteban (Doneztebe), there is a shop that offers cycling-tourism bike rentals, from traditional models to electric and children’s bikes, along with accessories such as helmets and repair kits.
What you need to know
- Available bike types: Adult, child, electric.
- Additional services: Helmets, child seats, assistance.
- Location: Santesteban (Doneztebe), 5 minutes from Casa Angiz.
Discover what the shop is like
Take a look at the following video where they show what the place is like and the atmosphere when renting bikes:
Renting a bike near the Vía Verde del Bidasoa is the most comfortable and eco-friendly option to enjoy a route among forests, tunnels, and charming villages.
Travel light, pedal in peace, and discover the best of cycling tourism in Navarre.
My experience on the Vía Verde del Bidasoa: cycling through history and nature among magical villages
I will never forget the first time I traveled the Vía Verde del Bidasoa. I set off early from Sunbilla, with the mist still clinging to the river and the feeling that I was about to live a small adventure. The bike rolled smoothly along the old route of the Tren Txikito, that legendary railway that I had heard the elders of the valley mention so many times.
Soon I crossed the first tunnel, damp and cold, listening to the echo of the wheels and feeling that, somehow, the spirit of the old train was still traveling with me. When I came out, the landscape opened up: ferns, oak forests, the Bidasoa running alongside, and the whistle of birds.
During the ride I passed through charming villages such as Legasa and Doneztebe/Santesteban, where it is always worth stopping for a pintxo and to regain strength. Later on, near Elgorriaga, I took the chance to cool off in the river and enjoy one of the picnic areas under the shade of the trees.
One of the most magical moments was crossing the hanging bridge of Sunbilla. The views of the river and forest are impressive, and it is easy to imagine the old train passengers admiring the same landscape, though from a wooden carriage.
Practical tips from someone who has experienced it (Vía Verde del Bidasoa)
- Bring a headlamp: some tunnels are long and dark; the feeling is unique, but it’s better to be prepared.
- Make stops: in villages such as Sunbilla, Legasa, Doneztebe, or Bera you can find bars and shops with local products—don’t miss them!
- Don’t be in a hurry: the magic of the route is in the details: the ruins of old stations, the birdsong, the sound of the water…
- Bring water and some food: although there are fountains, it never hurts to be equipped.
- Check the weather: after rain, the route has even more charm, but it is advisable to bring waterproof clothing.
- Use Wikiloc: it helped me a lot to orient myself and discover alternative or circular sections, such as the route Irun-Hedaia-Via Verde Bidasoa-Cruce de Lesaka
“Every kilometer is a mix of history and nature. Sometimes it feels like you are alone in the world, surrounded by forests and with the murmur of the river as a soundtrack.”
If you have time, I recommend taking a short detour in Elgorriaga and visiting the spa, perfect for relaxing after the route. And if you want to go a little further, there are connected routes such as Ederbidea to Irún, which crosses spectacular landscapes and lets you explore the wildest side of the valley.
Returning to Casa Angiz at sunset, tired but happy, is one of those small pleasures you never forget. If you are lucky enough to meet a local from the village, ask them to tell you an anecdote about the “Tren Txikito.” I assure you that hearing stories of smugglers, shepherds, or snowy days makes every corner take on a new meaning.
I also saw cows in the meadows, chickens near some farmhouses, and even a sheepdog supervising its woolly “family.” There is nothing like pedaling while feeling that you share the path with animals that are part of authentic rural life. These encounters turn every stretch into an adventure, ideal for families and for those seeking a genuine connection with nature and Navarrese culture.
Charming villages in Navarre
If you love villages with history, cobbled streets, and picture-postcard landscapes, we invite you to discover our selection of the most beautiful villages in Navarre. Find ideas, routes, and secrets in this article:
🔗 Discover charming villages in Navarre
The thrill of the tunnels and the echo of the past on the Vía Verde del Bidasoa
One of the most exciting moments of the route is passing through the tunnels of the old Tren Txikito. The first time you enter one, the light gradually disappears, the cool air surrounds you, and the echo of your footsteps or bike wheels seems to multiply. Some are so long that at first it is hard to see the exit, and that gives them an adventurous touch that delights the little ones… and the grown-ups too!
My advice: always carry a headlamp or have your phone flashlight ready. I remember one day when, halfway through a tunnel, a group of swallows flew out around me; the scare was huge, but the moment was unforgettable. Every tunnel is different, some with wooden doors, others with moss and ferns at the entrance. Without a doubt, they are the magical touch of the Vía Verde del Bidasoa and one of its great hallmarks.
- How many tunnels are there? More than 10 along the route, the longest near Sunbilla.
- Recommended routes with tunnels: Full route on Wikiloc
Magical stops: hidden pools and secret viewpoints
Along the Vía Verde del Bidasoa there are corners that you only discover if you go slowly and keep your eyes wide open. On one of my trips, just before Legasa, I found a small pool of clear water where I could cool my feet. There are lonely benches by the river that are perfect for a picnic, and even a raised viewpoint that offers spectacular views over the valley.
These places do not always appear on maps, but they are what turn the route into a unique memory. If you have time, don’t hesitate to sit for a while and listen to the silence! Nature here has a different rhythm, and it is easy to feel part of it.
- My favorite bench: A wooden bench with a view near Doneztebe, ideal for a snack while watching the sunset.
- Recommended pool: Between Legasa and Sunbilla, following the river trail (check this route on Wikiloc).
Baztan-Bidasoa Valley, essential guide
Do you want to get to know the Baztan-Bidasoa Valley in depth and not miss any of its special corners? Visit our essential guide with itineraries, recommendations, and must-see places:
🔗 Essential guide to the Baztan-Bidasoa Valley
🚴♂️ Stages and full route of the Vía Verde del Bidasoa
The route of the Vía Verde del Bidasoa stretches for about 42 kilometers, from Oieregi (Navarre) to Behobia-Irun (Gipuzkoa), near the French border. It is an ideal route to do by bike or on foot, crossing tunnels, forests, rural villages, and unforgettable landscapes.
1️⃣ Start of the route: Oieregi and the Señorío de Bertiz
The zero kilometer is in Oieregi, next to the famous Señorío de Bertiz Natural Park. Here the trail begins, right at the edge of the forest, with a gentle slope and a surface prepared for all kinds of visitors. Bikes must stay outside the park, but you can walk its trails before starting the adventure.
2️⃣ Legasa and its charming square
After leaving Oieregi, the route crosses the road via safe underpasses and runs alongside the NA-121A. Very soon the small village of Legasa appears, with a charming square and typical valley houses. It is a short but photogenic stop.
3️⃣ First major village: Santesteban (Doneztebe)
After about 6 km, you reach Doneztebe/Santesteban, an important town center. Here we cross the Bidasoa River for the first time. There are parks, shops, and several bars. On the way out of the village, next to Intzakardi Park, the green section returns with a concrete surface and benches to rest.
4️⃣ Tunnels and arrival in Sunbilla
The route continues through a dense forest, crossing two short tunnels until reaching the town of Sunbilla (km 9.6). This village is divided on both sides of the river and stands out for its medieval bridge and flower-filled houses. It is a perfect place to rest or even stay at Casa Angiz.
5️⃣ Road to Lesaka and Bera
The surface changes from concrete to compacted dirt, but it remains comfortable. More tunnels (lit) and areas with dams and fish ladders for salmon are crossed. The Bidasoa River accompanies you the whole time. You pass near the old Igantzi station and later through Lesaka (km 25), where there is a lit tunnel and a crossing with a gas station and hotel.
6️⃣ Section next to Bera
Although it does not cross the village, from the route you can see Bera on the other side of the river. Here you cross a safe underpass of the N-121A. Bera is the birthplace of the Baroja family and has great historical and aesthetic value. We recommend visiting it by crossing its San Miguel bridge.
7️⃣ Tunnels and spectacular landscapes in Endarlatsa
The most impressive section is when you reach Endarlatsa (km 33.8). Here the river is squeezed between mountains and tunnels carved into rock appear, some with openings toward the river that function as viewpoints. The excitement rises in this stretch.
8️⃣ Final stretch: Behobia – Irun – Pheasant Island
From Endarlatsa, the route continues to Behobia and enters Irun, already by the sea. The route passes through industrial and natural areas, finally ending in front of the mythical Pheasant Island (km 42). It is the perfect end to a magical route.
From the Navarrese valleys to the Cantabrian Sea, the Vía Verde del Bidasoa connects you with history, nature, and Basque-Navarrese culture.
Are you up for doing it in full or in sections? 🌿
Essential information about the Vía Verde del Bidasoa: kilometers, villages, and key sections
The Vía Verde del Bidasoa follows the old route of the Tren Txikito, from Oieregi (near the Señorío de Bértiz Natural Park) to Behobia-Irún, by the French border. So in reality, it is not just a path: it is an old train journey turned into a cycling and hiking route that will delight anyone who travels it today.
📏 Total mileage and route density
✔️ The prepared route totals about 42 km, from Oieregi to Behobia-Irún
✔️ In total, the old railway measured 51.5 km, but the current greenway covers about 42 km
📍 Villages and main sections along my route
- Oieregi: start next to the Señorío de Bértiz.
- Legasa: first contact with farmhouses and the rural Navarrese setting.
- Doneztebe/Santesteban: ideal stop for a pintxo and to walk through the town center
- Sunbilla: my perfect base, with a hanging bridge and direct access from Casa Angiz.
- Igantzi and Lesaka: former stops, areas of railway history and authentic natural surroundings.
- Bera/Vera de Bidasoa: village of the Cinco Villas, with a medieval bridge and border atmosphere
- Endarlatza: before reaching Irún, a point close to the historical beginning of the mining route
- Behobia‑Irún: end, by the border and the Txingudi Bay.
⚠️ Elevation, surface, and difficulty concentrated by sections
➤ Total elevation gain: gentle, about 200 m over the whole route. The positive elevation is approx. 202 m and the negative 390 m
➤ Surface type: mostly compacted dirt (~90%), some asphalt (~5%) and concrete (~2%) Some sections have uneven surfaces, especially between Endarlatza and Lesaka and around long tunnels. I recommend a gravel or trekking bike.
➤ Accessible sections: the Legasa-Sunbilla section (~9.3 km) is wheelchair accessible
⏱️ Estimated time by stage
– Oieregi → Legasa: ~2–2.5 h on foot, ~45 min by bike.
– Legasa → Doneztebe/Santesteban: ~1 h by bike with stops.
– Doneztebe → Sunbilla: ~45 min, ideal for a second pintxo.
– Sunbilla → Lesaka → Bera: ~1.5 h.
– Bera → Endarlatza → Behobia-Irún: ~1 h, ending by the river opposite Hendaye.
Before setting out, make sure you choose the section and the mode (on foot, bike, electric…) that best suits your experience and fitness. Check the kilometers, elevation gain, and terrain condition on each route carefully, and always bring the proper equipment. Better to be cautious and enjoy an unforgettable experience on the Vía Verde del Bidasoa safely!
Want to explore more options? Use Wikiloc to find the route closest to your location and the difficulty level that suits you best.
| Tramo | Distancia | Desnivel+/- | Tiempo (Wikiloc) | Dificultad | Enlace Wikiloc |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bértiz – Bera | ~75 km | +1300 m / – | ~6 h | Media | Circular Bértiz – Bera (34194716) |
| Elizondo – Pamplona via Plazaola | 64,3 km | +855 m / –616 m | 5 h 26 min | Fácil | Ruta 5 (13799867) |
| Irún – Lesaka (gravel/MTB) | ~43 km | +343 m / –343 m | 5 h 59 min | Fácil | Irún‑Lesaka (15302874) |
| Doneztebe – Cascada de Bisusta | ~18 km | Prácticamente plano | ~2 h 15 min | Fácil | Bisusta (209849634) |
| Irún → Lesaka (Endara) | - | - | - | Moderado | Irún‑Lesaka MTB (4607745) |
| Elizondo → Etxalar → Vía Verde | - | Tramos técnicos | - | Moderado | Elizondo‑Etxalar (27870742) |
| Lesaka (marcha nórdica) | - | - | - | Fácil | Lesaka Nordic (136959258) |
🧭 Practical tips to enjoy the Vía Verde del Bidasoa 🚴♀️🚶♂️
Before setting out to discover the Vía Verde del Bidasoa, it is important to keep in mind some useful tips that will make your experience more comfortable, safe, and memorable. Whether you are hiking, cycling, or simply taking a family walk, here is the essentials.
📍 Where does the Vía Verde del Bidasoa start and end?
The full route goes from Oieregi (Navarre) to Behobia-Irun (Gipuzkoa). If you want to do the route taking advantage of the favorable slope, the ideal thing is to do it **from south to north**, following the natural descent of the Bidasoa River to the sea.
🚲 Can it be done by bike? And with children?
Yes, absolutely. It is one of the most accessible greenways in Navarre for bikes. The terrain is mostly paved or compacted. It is even ideal for **family cycling tourism** and routes with children. You just need to be careful in sections where the path is shared with agricultural or resident vehicles.
🔧 What type of bike is best?
- 🚵♀️ MTB or hybrid: perfect for the whole route.
- 🚴♀️ Electric bike: helps on the climbs in the final section.
- 🚲 Children’s bike: on shorter sections such as between Sunbilla and Doneztebe.
🎒 Recommended gear for hiking or cycling tourism
If you plan to do the Vía Verde del Bidasoa on foot or by bike, bring the following:
- 🥤 Reusable water bottle (there are fountains in some villages)
- 🥪 Snack or picnic if you are doing long stretches
- 🧥 Comfortable layered clothing: the northern climate changes quickly!
- 🔦 Headlamp or bike light: there are tunnels (some without lighting)
- 🗺️ Physical map or GPS app in case you lose signal
☀️ What is the best time of year to do the route?
The best time for hiking on the Vía Verde del Bidasoa is from April to October, when the days are longer and there is less rain. Even so, in spring and autumn the landscape is incredible. In summer, go early to avoid the heat.
👨👩👧 Is it a good route for families?
Yes. Many sections are designed for family routes with children. From Sunbilla to Doneztebe, for example, there are only about 3 km of smooth surface, with benches and rest areas. The small tunnels are not dangerous and children love them.
🛑 Safety on the Vía Verde del Bidasoa
- ⚠️ Respect crossings with roads and areas shared with vehicles
- 🧍♂️ Do not walk with headphones in areas where cars may pass
- 🔔 Bring a bell on your bike to warn pedestrians
- 💡 Use front and rear lights if you are cycling
📷 Where should you stop for photos?
There are many photogenic places along the route. Here are some:
- 🌉 The medieval bridge of Sunbilla
- 🌲 Tunnels between Legasa and Doneztebe
- 🏞️ Natural viewpoint in Endarlatsa with views of the Bidasoa
- 🌸 Flower-filled facades in Bera and Lesaka
🍴 Where to eat during the route?
Some villages have restaurants or bars where you can recharge:
- Doneztebe/Santesteban: variety of bars
- Sunbilla: bars with affordable menus
- Lesaka: a slight detour, but worth it
You can also bring a picnic and stop at one of the greenway rest areas.
🏡 Where to stay if you do the route in two days?
If you are looking for an authentic rural experience, you can stay at Casa Angiz, in Sunbilla. It is right next to the greenway, in a quiet setting surrounded by nature. Ideal for resting and continuing the route the next day. 🌿
📶 Is there mobile coverage?
In general, yes. Although there are stretches of forest or tunnels where the signal may briefly disappear. Bring downloaded maps if you need them.
🗺️ Where can I get the route map?
In the full article about the Vía Verde del Bidasoa on our blog you have an interactive map. You can also find it on Google Maps as “Vía Verde del Bidasoa – Eurovelo 1”.
🌧️ Can the route be done if it rains?
Yes, but with caution. Some dirt sections can become slippery. If there is a storm, it is best to avoid tunnels and wait in nearby villages.
♻️ Respect the environment: leave the greenway as you found it
Remember: do not leave trash, respect the flora and fauna, and keep quiet in the more natural stretches. We all take care of this natural treasure together.
💡 Casa Angiz tip: If you do the route in two days, choose a midway point to sleep such as Sunbilla. It will let you enjoy the experience without rushing.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask at Casa Angiz: we will be happy to help you choose the best route and answer any questions. Your safety and enjoyment are our priority!
Bidasoa River: routes and activities by the water
If you enjoy water, river landscapes, and outdoor activities, don’t miss our selection of routes and plans along the Bidasoa River. Discover them all here:
🔗 Routes and activities on the Bidasoa River
🚂 The Tren Txikito and other curiosities of the Vía Verde del Bidasoa
The Vía Verde del Bidasoa is not only a natural and sporting route: it is also a journey through time. Along this path that connects Navarre with Gipuzkoa, every bend, tunnel, and bridge preserves the memory of a railway past that transformed the area. Did you know that this greenway used to be the route of the legendary Tren Txikito?
📜 The origin of the Tren Txikito: a story on rails
The Bidasoa Railway, better known as Tren Txikito, began operating in the early 20th century. Its nickname, which means “little train” in Basque, referred to its narrow gauge and small size. It connected Elizondo with Irun and was key for trade, mineral transport, and communication between the villages of the valley.
The line was closed in the 1950s, but its legacy remains alive. Today, thanks to its recovery as a green route, we can follow its path and discover how engineering and nature intertwine.
🏗️ Railway heritage hidden along the route
As you travel the route, you will discover structures that have been restored or preserved:
- ⛓️ Old stations such as those in Igantzi, Sunbilla, or Endarlatsa
- 🌉 Railway bridges of stone and iron, witnesses to the train’s passage
- 🕳️ Hand-dug tunnels that cross mountains and allow safe passage for walkers and cyclists
- ⛏️ Minerals, rails, and stops still visible in some sections
📍 Endarlatsa: strategic point of the route
One of the most historically rich places is Endarlatsa, where the Bidasoa River marks the natural border between Spain and France. Here was one of the most important stops of the train, with direct connection to the mines of the Peñas de Aya (Aiako Harria). This area was the epicenter of mineral transport, and remains of the Palace of the English, where the British businessmen of the time stayed, can still be seen.
🔍 Did you know that…?
- 🚩 The train also carried passengers between villages, being essential for students and merchants.
- 🎖️ A battle was fought on the Bera bridge during the Peninsular War, defended by British riflemen.
- 📦 The wagons descended by inclined planes from the mine to the stop to load the wagons directly.
- 🔗 The original route was expropriated to build roads, which forced sections of the current greenway to be diverted.
📷 Hidden details and curiosities of the path
Beyond the railway past, the Vía Verde del Bidasoa offers small gems for those who know how to look:
- 🌉 The medieval bridge of Sunbilla, one of the most beautiful in northern Navarre
- 🐟 Fish ladders for salmon that allow fish to overcome the dams
- 🌸 Farmhouses with flower-filled balconies in Lesaka, Bera, and other villages along the route
- ⛰️ Impressive views of Aiako Harria, the only granite massif in Euskadi
- 🇫🇷 Pheasant Island, territory shared between France and Spain
🌍 The route today: European connection and sustainability
Currently, this route is part of two major international projects:
- EuroVelo 1: the Atlantic Coast Route, which connects Norway with Portugal
- Ederbidea: a cross-border network between Bayonne, Donostia, and Pamplona
The Vía Verde del Bidasoa is an example of sustainable tourism, converting old infrastructure into spaces to enjoy Navarrese nature without leaving a trace.
❤️ Traveling with emotion: what guidebooks don’t tell you
Beyond the history, this route moves people because of what it conveys. The silence of the tunnels, the crunch of gravel under bike wheels, the smell of damp forest, the birdsong, or the greetings from neighbors from the farmhouses.
It is a route to discover slowly, without hurry. To stop at every bench, every bridge, every corner with history. Because beyond sport, the Vía Verde del Bidasoa is an emotional journey through history, nature, and rural life.
✨ Casa Angiz tip: when you pass through Sunbilla, go down into the village, cross its medieval bridge, and take a break looking at the river. It is one of those places you never forget. 🏞️
My real experiences and anecdotes on the Vía Verde del Bidasoa
Traveling the Vía Verde del Bidasoa has been one of the most complete and rewarding adventures I have experienced in northern Navarre. Every time I leave from Casa Angiz, I know something different awaits me: new encounters, landscapes that change with the light, and small challenges that end up becoming stories to tell.
I especially remember one spring morning, when fog covered the river and there were hardly any sounds, except the distant murmur of the water and the song of the blackbirds. Suddenly, I met a shepherd guiding his flock of sheep across the route. He greeted me with an “egun on,” smiled, and continued on his way, leaving behind that trail of rural calm that so characterizes the area.
Another unforgettable experience was discovering a small hidden pool near Legasa. It was a hot day, I was alone, and I had a sandwich and fruit with me. I took off my shoes, put my feet in the icy water, and for a moment I felt time stop. There is nothing like finding your own secret corner in the middle of nature.
I also won’t forget the day a group of swallows shot out of a tunnel just as I was crossing by bike with the lights on. The scare was huge, but it quickly turned into laughter and a story to tell friends and guests.
There are days when the route is full of life: families on bikes, couples walking, travelers from abroad who stop you to ask about the best section or where to eat a good pintxo. Many times, I end up recommending the village bar, the bakery, or the quietest picnic area, because I know those details make all the difference in any trip.
📸 Explore the Vía Verde del Bidasoa through my best photographs
Every trip along the Vía Verde del Bidasoa is unique and different. That is why I wanted to share with you some of the most special images I have captured during my adventures from our beloved Casa Angiz in Sunbilla.
In these photographs you will discover the incomparable beauty of this cycling route in Navarre, from its historic tunnels to its most secret natural corners. You will see impressive landscapes along the banks of the emblematic Bidasoa River, framed by the tranquility and authenticity of charming villages such as Oieregi, Legasa, Sunbilla, and Bera de Bidasoa.
I have captured special moments in every season, from spring freshness to the warm colors of autumn, so that you can feel the spirit of this route, part of important international routes such as EuroVelo 1 and the cross-border project Ederbidea.
Enjoy these exclusive images visually and find inspiration to plan your own adventure, whether by bike, on foot, or with family. And remember that if you want more practical information or personal tips on how to do this wonderful route, at Casa Angiz we will be happy to help you.
Let yourself be carried away by the magic of the Vía Verde del Bidasoa and fall in love, as I do every day, with this extraordinary corner of northern Navarre!
Would you like to discover the magic, legends, and mystery of the Zugarramurdi Caves?
Don’t miss our complete guide with everything you need to know to visit them and enjoy a unique experience:
🔗 Explore the Zugarramurdi Caves
❓ Traveler tips and questions
Ready to discover the Vía Verde del Bidasoa?
After traveling paths, tunnels, and villages steeped in history, I can only recommend that you experience this journey calmly, with curiosity and all your senses awake. If you are looking for the perfect place to start and end your adventure, Sunbilla is the green heart of the route and Casa Angiz the ideal refuge for those who want to rest, feel the authenticity of Navarre, and enjoy the best starting point of the greenway.
From here you will have direct access to the most beautiful sections, the hospitality of the local people, and all the services you need to make your trip comfortable, safe, and memorable. And best of all: after the route, nothing beats returning to Casa Angiz and feeling at home.
Do you have questions, need advice, or want to plan a getaway tailored to you? Write to us; we will be delighted to help you organize your perfect experience on the Vía Verde del Bidasoa.
Book your stay now at Casa Angiz and get ready to fall in love with Sunbilla and the unique landscapes of this corner of Navarre!
To better plan your trip and discover everything Navarre has to offer, you can consult official information on the region’s tourism website:
🔗 visitnavarra.es
