Church of San Martín de Tours, Forua

The most convenient public transport option is the Euskotren railway. The Forua station is located directly on the Urdaibai line, making it easily accessible. From the station, the church is just a short walk away, allowing visitors to arrive without the need for a car.

While parking is generally available in Forua, it can become limited, especially during peak tourist seasons or on weekends. For those planning to combine their visit with a hike, it's advisable to arrive earlier in the day to secure a spot. There are usually designated areas within the village for visitor parking.

Yes, the area around Forua and within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve offers several family-friendly walking routes. These often feature gentle terrain and scenic views suitable for all ages. The church itself, with its fascinating Roman necropolis visible through the glass floor, is also a captivating educational experience for children.

Many of the outdoor trails in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. While dogs are generally not permitted inside the church itself, they are welcome in the surrounding outdoor areas and on most local walking paths. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out.

The terrain around Forua varies. Many trails within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve feature a mix of paved paths, gravel tracks, and natural earth trails. You can expect some gentle inclines and descents, particularly as you explore the natural features of the reserve. For more challenging routes, some paths might involve steeper sections or uneven surfaces.

Yes, several circular routes can be found that begin in Forua, often passing by the church. These routes typically explore the nearby natural landscapes of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, offering views of the estuary, local villages, and historical sites. Local tourist information centers or online hiking platforms can provide detailed maps and descriptions of these loops.

While the church can be visited year-round, for hiking, the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather with milder temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Summer can be warm, and trails might be busier. Winter offers a quieter experience, but some paths could be muddy, so appropriate footwear is essential.

Forua, though a small municipality, has a few local establishments where visitors can find refreshments. There are typically cafes or small restaurants in the village center where you can enjoy a coffee, a snack, or a traditional Basque meal after your visit to the church or a hike in the area.

Beyond the fascinating Roman necropolis visible through the glass floor, visitors should pay attention to the church's Gothic-Renaissance architecture, particularly its three naves of equal height. The interior also houses exceptional altarpieces from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, with the Rococo style altarpiece in the central chapel by Juan de Urquiza being particularly noteworthy. The precious wooden dome covering the temple is also considered a gem of local wooden architecture.

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the church's historical and cultural significance. These tours typically delve into the long history of the site, from its Roman origins and the archaeological discoveries beneath, to the architectural evolution of the current Gothic-Renaissance structure and the stories behind its altarpieces. They offer a deeper understanding of this unique historical landmark.

Hiking in Forua offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, often featuring routes that connect historical sites like the church with the natural landscapes of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. While Urdaibai offers a vast array of diverse trails, Forua's routes are particularly notable for their direct link to ancient Roman history and the estuary's ecosystems, providing a distinct experience compared to more purely coastal or mountainous paths within the reserve.