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Of Kings, Pigs, and Mountain Passes

Pastures, borders, and the quiet logic of rural life

Elizondo welcomes us as it has always done: dignified, generous, unhurried. Long before novels and screens brought it sudden fame, it was already the noble heart of the Baztan Valley — a place of stately houses, old bridges, and one of the most cherished hot chocolates in Spain. We may begin with a cup, or not, but either way the tone is set.

From here, the road lifts gently toward the Izpegi pass, threading its way between pastures and forests as we cross into the French Basque Country. In Baigorri, we pause to admire its beautiful church and walk along the river, where daily life still follows the cadence of water and season. The journey continues upward, onto lesser-traveled mountain tracks toward Banca, passing trout farms, grazing sheep, and free-range Basque native pigs—animals deeply tied to both landscape and tradition.

We then re-enter Spain through the vast beech forests of Quinto Real, a natural stronghold where borders feel secondary to terrain. The light changes as we skirt the Eugi reservoir and climb again toward the Artesiaga pass, with wide views opening over valleys shaped by centuries of pastoral life. Descending once more into Baztan, we arrive in Irurita for a relaxed lunch before returning.

This is not a route of monuments, but of continuity: mountain passes walked for centuries, animals raised with purpose, valleys that still make sense on their own terms.

Here, history is not narrated—it grazes, flows, and endures.

  • €735 for 2 guests‍ ‍

    • €170 per additional guest

    • €140 per additional guest (10-17)

    • €35 per additional guest (under 10)

    Group size: Intimate groups, up to 6 guests.
 Larger parties may be considered upon request.

    Departures: Pricing and timing are based on departures from San Sebastián. 
Other departure points can be arranged upon request.

    Each journey is carefully calibrated. Variations in group size or departure point are handled with the same attention.

  • Departure: 8:30 am

    Duration: approx. 8 to 9 hours

  • · A full meal at a locally run restaurant

    · English-speaking professional native guide

    · Van, petrol & transportation expenses

    · All taxes

  • Food and/or drinks apart from water.

    Any item not described above.

Private enquiry.