Peña del Santo and La Muela Loop

The circular route typically begins from the charming village of Corres. You can usually find parking within or near the village, which serves as a convenient starting point for your hike into Izki Natural Park.

While generally considered to have an "easy" to "low-medium" technical difficulty, this route is rated as moderate. Some sections, particularly the ascents to Peña del Santo and La Muela, are steep and can be slippery, especially when wet. Hikers should be prepared for varied terrain, including scree and lapiaces, and some parts might require holding onto trees for assistance.

You'll experience a diverse range of terrain, from open areas to dense beech forests (hayedo) and wooded ravines like the Barranco de Castejón. Expect sections of scree ("pedrera") and distinctive limestone formations known as lapiaces. There are also strong, potentially slippery slopes, so appropriate footwear is essential.

The trail offers impressive panoramic views from the summits of Peña del Santo (1037m) and La Muela (1,055 m). A significant highlight is the passage by the Mirador de Atxamunio, which provides excellent vistas. You'll also enjoy the diverse landscapes of Izki Natural Park, including its extensive European oak forest (marojal) and characteristic "ship-prow" shaped peaks.

The Izki Natural Park is beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly spectacular as the forests explode with color, enhancing the visual appeal of the hike. Spring also offers lush greenery and pleasant temperatures. Always check the weather forecast before you go, as wet conditions can make some steep sections very slippery.

Izki Natural Park generally welcomes dogs, but they should be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Given some of the steep and potentially slippery sections, ensure your dog is capable of handling the terrain.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail or access Izki Natural Park. The park is open to the public, and its network of trails is freely accessible.

Izki Natural Park is known for its significant biodiversity. Keep an eye out for various species, including the middle spotted woodpecker, agile frog, and wild boar. The park's diverse ecosystems, from forests to open areas, support a rich array of flora and fauna.

Yes, this route utilizes sections of several well-marked trails within Izki Natural Park. You will find yourself on parts of the Izkiko mendi ibilbidea, Ruta 8 - Izki, and Artzaintza naturbidea, among others. The trail often follows existing PR-A80 signage, making navigation easier.

As the starting point for the hike, Corres Village is a small settlement. While specific details on cafes or pubs are not provided, it's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks. The village church is a notable landmark.

Given the varied terrain and potential for steep, slippery sections, sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential. We recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, and layers of clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. Trekking poles can be helpful for stability on descents and steep ascents. A map or GPS device is also advisable, though the paths are generally well-marked.