Hotels in Ochagavía

Ochagavía

The village spreads along both banks of the river Anduña, joined by a medieval bridge. Cobbled streets, stone houses with steep roofs and the church of San Juan Evangelista form a very well-kept ensemble. The nature interpretation centre is here, useful for planning your walks.

Sleeping in the village puts bars, shops and restaurants within walking distance. It is the most convenient base for visiting the Irati forest, reached by a mountain road from the village itself. In summer and autumn, when the beech woods change colour, the village fills up and you should book well ahead.

The Muskilda hermitage

Above the village, on a rise surrounded by meadows, stands the hermitage of Muskilda, with a very distinctive tower. A waymarked path climbs from Ochagavía, the most popular short outing. The rural stays on the outskirts, on the way to the hermitage, offer valley views and plenty of calm at night.

Izalzu and the road to Larrau

Izalzu is a small hamlet on the road up to the Larrau pass and the French border. It has very few houses and the odd rural stay. It suits you if you are after isolation, dark skies and quick access to high-mountain routes, such as those around Abodi. In winter there may be snow on the road.

Ezcároz and Jaurrieta

Downstream, the Salazar valley continues with stone villages such as Ezcároz, which has some services, and Jaurrieta, a little higher. They are quiet alternatives when Ochagavía is full in summer or on long weekends. They are well connected by the valley road and leave you close to both Irati and the way out to Lumbier and Pamplona.