Discover the Artibai River ZEC and its surroundings
Nature, history and tradition
Located in the Historical Territory of Bizkaia, the Special Area of Conservation (SAC)Río Artibai extends from Mount Oiz to its mouth in Ondarroa, forming an ecological corridor of great value that connects terrestrial, fluvial and marine ecosystems. This protected environment, part of theNatura 2000 Network, is key to the biodiversity of the Basque Country, offering a landscape of great beauty where nature and culture intertwine.
The Artibai river and its tributaries (Bolibar, Urbero, Urko, Amailoa and Olabe) are home to alder and ash forests, as well as endangered species such as the European mink and the madrilla. An ideal environment for hiking, cycling and birdwatching.
One of the most interesting routes for history and nature lovers is the GR 38, Wine and Fish Route, a historic trail that connects Rioja Alavesa with the Basque Coast. In the past, this path was used by muleteers to exchange products such as wine, fish, salt and cereals. Walking along it allows you to immerse yourself in the commercial history of the Basque Country while enjoying spectacular scenery.
A few kilometers from the Artibai River, Markina-Xemein is a town that preserves the essence of the Basque Country. Its historic quarter houses jewels such as the Church and Convent of Carmen, the Church of Santa María de Xemein, the Bidarte Tower, the Munibe Palace, the Antsotegi Palace and the Hermitage of San Miguel de Arretxinaga, with its unique altar formed by three enormous stones.
But if there is a place that stands out in Markina-Xemein is its Fronton, known as the University of Basque Pelota. Here you can take a guided tour and even participate in a Jai-Alai class, the fastest traditional sport in the world.
Just 6 km from Markina-Xemein, visitors can discover a real jewel of Cistercian art: the Zenarruza Monastery, declared a National Monument of the Basque Country in 1948. Its serene beauty and history make it a place of great cultural interest.
If we are looking for a seafaring atmosphere, Ondarroa, at the mouth of the Artibai River, is a must-see. Its old town, with narrow, steep streets with a medieval flavor, is home to unique corners such as the Old Bridge over the Artibai River, the Likona Tower (15th century), one of the oldest frontier constructions in the Basque Country, and the Andra Mari Church (1462), an impressive Gothic work with a beautiful rose window.
For those who prefer to relax by the sea, Ondarroa has the beach of Arrigorri, from where you can walk to the nearby beach of Saturraran, in the municipality of Mutriku, surrounded by a spectacular natural environment.
The ZEC Río Artibai and its surroundings offer a perfect combination of nature, culture, history and tradition. From historical trails to indigenous sports, from the medieval legacy of its villages to the beauty of its landscapes, this destination invites you to discover the Basque Country from a unique and authentic perspective.