Natural Reserve of the Foz de Lumbier – circular route

The circular route through the Foz de Lumbier Nature Reserve immerses you in a landscape where the Irati River has carved an impressive gorge into the limestone rock. You'll walk along the old track of Spain's first electric train, passing through two dark tunnels that add a touch of adventure. The imposing rock walls, reaching up to 200 meters high, are home to griffon vultures, and it's common to see them soaring above the canyon. This is a 3.9-mile (6.3 km) hike with an elevation gain of 888 feet (271 meters), classified as moderate, and will take you approximately 2 hours and 2 minutes.

To plan your visit, keep in mind that spring and autumn are the ideal seasons to enjoy this route. It's essential to bring a flashlight for the two unlit tunnels, which are an exciting part of the journey. Although the gorge section is very accessible, the complete circular route requires a good level of physical fitness, so be prepared for some climbs and carry enough water.

This route is notable for its unique combination of history and nature. It follows part of the old track of the "El Irati" railway, the first electric train on the Iberian Peninsula, which gives it a special historical character. Furthermore, the Foz de Lumbier is a declared Nature Reserve, famous for its colony of griffon vultures and Egyptian vultures, offering a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching in a spectacular geological setting.