Atxuria walks

Atxuria or Peña Plata is a beautiful peak with 100-metre cliffs on its southern face. Magnificent views of the Spanish mountains and the northern plains. There are numerous caves at its base. The most famous are those of Sare and Zugarramurdi, which were inhabited in the Palaeolithic era.

The mountain range south of Zugarramurdi offers modest peaks in terms of altitude but with interesting panoramic views. Today's hike, which is new, invites you to make short ascents of five of them: Mendibil, Airagarri, Atxuria, Aizparaz and Arleun.

Starting from the caves of Sare (which are well worth a visit), the climb to this proud summit offers a magnificent panorama. The climb up the French side, which is sometimes steep, quickly takes you close to the summit ridge, which you follow to reach the top of Atxuria. The route continues opposite the village of Zugarramurdi, the village of witches, before plunging down the Spanish side. A wild crossing precedes a steeper descent back to the French side, passing at the foot of cliffs made up of countless brown-red ledges: overhanging, they serve as a refuge and nesting place for colonies of griffon vultures that fly over this idyllic pastoral landscape. As you approach the forest, the hundred-year-old beech trees and the refreshing company of streams give this gentle valley an enchanting air.