Aralar Tour

This trail is designed for trail running and typically takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. However, your actual time may vary depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail begins at the Port of Lizarrusti, which is a well-known access point to the Aralar Natural Park. There is often an interpretation center and an inn at Lizarrusti, suggesting amenities and parking facilities are available there for visitors.

No, this trail is rated as difficult for trail running. It involves a significant elevation gain of over 400 meters and can be challenging, requiring good physical fitness and careful footing, especially in certain sections. It is not recommended for beginners.

The route offers several notable features. You'll pass by the tranquil Lareo Reservoir, surrounded by beautiful beech forests. The trail also leads to the Monte Cormor (995 m) summit, and the area is known for the unique Sarastarri Cave and the Sarastarri Summit, which provides excellent panoramic views.

The terrain is diverse, featuring mostly accessible paths but with some sections that demand careful footing. You'll navigate through extensive beech forests, and parts of the path can narrow into small tracks, particularly around the Lareo reservoir. Expect significant ascents and descents.

The trail is beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly vibrant when the beech trees around the Lareo reservoir are at their peak. Be aware that the area is prone to fog and low clouds, which can impact visibility, especially at higher elevations.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within the Aralar Natural Park for activities like trail running. However, it's always a good idea to check with the Lizarrusti Interpretation Center for any current regulations or local advisories before your visit.

While many natural parks in Spain allow dogs, specific rules can vary. It's best to confirm with the Lizarrusti Interpretation Center or local park authorities regarding dog policies, including leash requirements, to ensure a smooth visit with your canine companion.

Yes, beyond the stunning beech forests and the Lareo Reservoir, the area is notable for the Sarastarri Cave, a unique karst cave with a small internal lagoon. If you plan to explore it, a headlamp is essential. The region around the Sarastarri summit also features numerous other caves.

Yes, this trail running route intersects with several other official paths. A significant portion of the route follows sections of the Aralarko bira (72%) and the Lareo ibilbidea (69%). You'll also find it crosses parts of the Artzaintza naturbidea (54%) and the E1 Gaztaren Ibilbidea: Lizarrusti - Ordizia (53%), among others.

From the Sarastarri summit, you can expect privileged panoramic views of the Aralar region. On clear days, you'll be able to see prominent peaks like Txindoki and Ganboa, and even the distant Urbasa and Andía mountain ranges, offering expansive vistas of the surrounding natural landscape.