Old Irati Houses Trail

This moderate 10.5 km (6.5 miles) circular hike, known as the "Old road to Casas de Irati - Old road to Koixta – circular ZEPA Roncesvalles-Sierra Irati (SL-NA 69)", generally takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete at a steady pace.

The trail is rated as moderate. It follows well-marked paths through the forest, making it manageable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. There are some ascents, including one along a ridge, but no overly technical sections.

The trail is a circular route that connects Casas de Irati with the Koixta reservoir. While specific parking details aren't provided, it's common for trails in this area to have designated parking near the Casas de Irati. We recommend checking local signage upon arrival.

You'll primarily hike on marked trails through dense beech and fir forests. The route includes an ascent along a ridge, a brief crossing of a road, and sections running parallel to the Urtxuria River. The final kilometer to the Koixta Reservoir is on a track.

The trail offers an immersive experience in the ancient Irati Forest, one of Europe's largest beech and fir forests. You'll pass by the Urtxuria River, reach the Koixta Reservoir, and encounter the hermitage of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves (Our Lady of the Snows). The forest itself is a highlight, with ancient trees and spectacular seasonal colors.

The Irati Forest is renowned for its spectacular changing colors, making autumn a particularly beautiful time to visit. However, the trail offers a rich natural experience throughout the seasons. Spring brings lush greenery, and summer provides a cool escape under the forest canopy. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

While the Irati Forest is a natural area, specific regulations for dogs on the SL-NA 69 trail are not detailed. As a general rule in protected areas like the ZEPA Roncesvalles-Sierra Irati, it's best to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

The Irati Forest is a significant natural area, and while it's part of the ZEPA (Special Protection Area for Birds) Roncesvalles-Sierra Irati, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking on public trails like this one. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Visit Navarra website for any updated regulations or seasonal restrictions before your visit.

The Irati Forest is known for its exceptional biodiversity. As part of the ZEPA Roncesvalles-Sierra Irati, it's a habitat for numerous species of flora and fauna. Hikers might spot deer, wild boar, foxes, and various bird species. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a wildcat, though they are more elusive.

Yes, the "Old road to Casas de Irati - Old road to Koixta – circular ZEPA Roncesvalles-Sierra Irati (SL-NA 69)" trail intersects with or runs alongside sections of other routes. Notably, it covers 100% of the Iratiko etxeetako bide zaharra and 97% of the Koixtako bide zaharra. You'll also find it briefly touching parts of the Abodi, Ruta Transpirenaica en BTT (Aisa - Roncesvalles), and SL NA-69 trails.

Yes, if you're looking for a slightly different experience, the trail research mentions an alternative return route via SL-NA 60A. This path continues through beech forests and offers views from a viewpoint overlooking the Urtxuria River, providing a fresh perspective on the forest scenery.