Urdazubi/Urdax Caves

A world sculpted in silence

Beneath the green surface of Atlantic Navarre, water has been writing a story for millennia that needs no words. The River Urtxume continues its silent work, carving out galleries where light barely penetrates and time is perceived differently – more densely, more still.

In this space, the legends of the lamias seem to cling to the damp walls, whilst the limestone formations grow with almost imperceptible patience. Everything invites you to pause: to observe without haste, to listen to what is left unsaid, to wander through a landscape that does not quite belong to the outside world.

Urdazubi/Urdax Caves – general information

Known as the Ikaburu Caves, these cavities have been formed over hundreds of thousands of years by the continuous action of water on the limestone. They are located in the municipality of Urdazubi/Urdax , in the Navarrese Pyrenees, very close to the border with France.

The caves have been used by humans since prehistoric times. There is evidence of occupation during the Palaeolithic period, when they served as a refuge. Later on, they were also used as a hiding place during historical events such as the War of Independence in the early 19th century. Nearby lies the Alkerdi site, an important archaeological site featuring prehistoric animal engravings.

How to get to the Urdax Caves?

Access is by road through the northern part of Navarre, in an Atlantic landscape.

• Access by road: From Pamplona, take the N-121-A towards France and, at Oronoz-Mugairi, join the N-121-B towards Elizondo–Dantxarinea, continuing to the vicinity of Urdazubi/Urdax.  
• Final stretch: In the vicinity of the town, signs lead to the neighbourhood of Leorlas, where the Urdax Caves are located. There is direct access via a tarmac road to the entrance, with a car park nearby.

What is there to do at the Urdax Caves?

The tour allows you to discover both the natural formation of the cave and its use over time.

• Guided tour: A guided tour with adapted lighting that highlights the formations and explains the history of the site.  
• Geological formations: Observation of stalactites, stalagmites and other structures created by the action of water.  
• Natural surroundings: Opportunity to stroll through the village and explore nearby riverside paths.