Attractions and Places To See in Ullibarri Urtegiko Adarrak/Colas Del Embalse De Ullíbarri - Top 3

The region is centered around the expansive Ullíbarri-Gamboa Reservoir, which is the largest in the Basque Country. It features several natural spaces, including Blue Flag-certified beaches like Landa and Garaio, and islands such as Zuhatza (Rabbit Island) and Orenin. The area is also recognized as a Natura 2000 site and a Ramsar wetland, highlighting its ecological importance.

You can experience several impressive structures and scenic spots. The Rabbit Island Viewpoint offers spectacular views. Additionally, there are significant pedestrian and cycle bridges, such as the Azua Footbridge (almost half a kilometer long) and the Zadorra Footbridge (208 meters), which are integral parts of the circular routes around the reservoir and provide unique perspectives of the natural setting.

The reservoir is a hub for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy water sports like rowing, canoeing, and windsurfing. The area is also perfect for hiking and cycling, with an extensive network of trails, including a popular 44 km circular route around the reservoir. Swimming and sunbathing are popular at the Blue Flag beaches during summer.

Yes, the region is very family-friendly. The Vitoria Reservoir area, with its beaches and wooded paths, is ideal for recreation. Garaio Park offers a large leisure space for strolling, and many trails, like the Forest trail along Landa and Garaio lakes, are suitable for families. The Rabbit Island Viewpoint also has benches and new ground, making it accessible for families to enjoy the views.

The Mendijur Ornithological Park, located at the eastern end of the reservoir, is an excellent spot for birdwatching. It features adapted paths and two observatories. Guided kayak tours also provide unique opportunities for birdwatching from natural observation platforms on the water.

The summer months are particularly popular, especially for swimming and recreation at the reservoir's beaches. However, the extensive hiking and cycling routes offer smooth walks with gentle slopes and continuous views, making spring and autumn also ideal for outdoor activities when the weather is milder.

Yes, the area offers a variety of hiking trails. For easy, family-friendly options, consider routes like the "Garaio Provincial Park – Garaio Footbridge loop" (5.1 km) or the "Garaio Footbridge – Garaio Provincial Park loop" (5.4 km). For more moderate challenges, you can explore the "Garaio Footbridge – Azua Footbridge loop" (13.6 km). You can find more details on these and other routes in the Family-friendly hikes guide.

Absolutely. The region is well-known for its cycling opportunities, including a popular 44 km circular trail around the reservoir. There are numerous routes for touring bicycles, such as the "Garaio Footbridge – Ullíbarri-Gamboa Reservoir loop" (45.2 km) or shorter, easy options like the "Azua Footbridge – Garaio Footbridge loop" (14.3 km). Explore more options in the Traffic-free bike rides guide.

Visitors frequently praise the tranquility and natural beauty of the trails. The Forest trail along Landa and Garaio lakes is noted for being quiet and offering stunning views. The Trail Section to Nanclares de Gamboa is highlighted for its perfect and fast condition, despite potential crowds on weekends, and is often considered the best stretch of the reservoir for its good road surface.

Yes, road cyclists can find several routes. Options include the "Bar Urbasa – Fields of the Llanada Alavesa loop" (65.9 km) or the "Parador de Argómaniz – Fields of the Llanada Alavesa loop" (47.2 km). These routes offer varying distances and difficulty grades, from easy to moderate. You can find more detailed information in the Road Cycling Routes guide.

The Rabbit Island Viewpoint is highly recommended for its spectacular views of Rabbit Island and its tranquility. It has been recently updated with new ground and benches, making it a comfortable and scenic spot to pause and enjoy the landscape.