Kingdom of Navarre. Land of diversity

Routes through history

These routes have created history and encouraged the development of traditions, If we had to mention just one in the Kingdom of Navarre, it would be the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela, a route that has left an indelible mark on the customs and artistic heritage of our Community. Navarre is the entry point from France and also a crossroads of routes: the two 'French' routes of the Pilgrim's Way come down from Orreaga/Roncesvalles and Sangüesa to join in Puente La Reina, from where they lead towards Estella and leave Navarre in Viana.

Other routes with centuries of traditions are the Roman roads; those at Cirauqui and Belate are still in good condition. Navarre is also crossed by a host of small and large routes. Some go through woods and around reservoirs or link ancient caves, while others take us to dolmens, cross rivers or follow the route of old railway lines, such as the vías verdes of Plazaola and Tarazonica.

Other routes are born in the Roncal valley: the Cañada Real, a remnant of traditional transhumance, when the flocks of sheep from the Pyrenean meadows go down to the Ebro valley, and another route used by the hardy almadieros (rafters) for many years to transport timber by river from the north to the south of Navarre.

The capital, Pamplona, has a 'route' that is intense and full of tradition and fervour: the Encierro (Bull Run). Eight hundred metres along which daring souls run in front of fighting bulls during the fiesta of San Fermín from July 7th to 14th every year.

Reasons for discovering Navarre

• Land of Diversity
• Land of traditions
• Good food
• The four seasons
• Party atmosphere
• Where one feels good
• Routes through history
• Authentic people