Orhi Peak

The first stone pyramid rising above the Atlantic forest

Here, where the ridge breaks through the two-thousand-metre barrier and the summit wind dominates the horizon devoid of boundary stones, time marches on. On Pico de Orhi, the green carpet of its grassy slopes coexists with the sheer drop down to the northern valleys, revealing a landscape where the forest and the exposed rock maintain a delicate balance. It is a summit of borders and memory, where the solidity of its pyramidal shape and the heartbeat of the land manifest themselves in serene harmony before the respectful observer.

Pico de Orhi – general information  

The Pico de Orhi (2,017 m) is the most iconic peak in the Navarrese Pyrenees and the first ‘two-thousander’ in the mountain range from the Cantabrian Sea. Situated at the head of the Salazar Valley, it marks the natural border between Navarre and Zuberoa.

Its silhouette features two contrasting slopes: the southern slope descends gently through meadows towards the Irati Forest and Abodi, whilst the northern slope drops steeply towards the glacial cirques of Larraine. Deeply rooted in Basque culture and mythology (associated with figures such as Mari and Basajaun), it symbolises a deep connection to the land, as reflected in the famous saying ‘Orhiko txoria, Orira tira’ (every bird returns to its nest).

How to get to the Peak of Orhi?

Access via the Navarran side is via Ochagavía/Otsagabia, first taking the NA-140 road and then the NA-2011, which climbs towards the Larrau Pass and the border with France.

The most common ascent route begins at the Puerto de Larrau, situated at an altitude of 1,573 metres. From the car park, the path crosses the border area and climbs towards the summit. During winter, snow may hinder or prevent access by road from Pikatua, so it is important to take the terrain conditions into account before setting out on the route.

What to do on Orhi Peak?

The area around Orhi offers various ways to enjoy the high mountains and the landscape of the Salazar Valley:

• Climb to the summit: follow the path from Puerto de Larrau and skirt the secondary summit of Ori Txipi (Oritxipia). The route allows you to ascend via different paths until you reach the triangulation point and the summit postbox.
• Take in the views: from the summit you can see the Irati Forest, the Sierra de Abodi and numerous Pyrenean peaks, such as the Mesa de los Tres Reyes, Petrechema, Pic d’Anie and Midi d’Ossau. On clear days, the view extends as far as the Cantabrian Sea.
• Spotting mountain wildlife: the cliffs and slopes of Orhi form part of the habitat of various birds of prey, including the griffon vulture and the Egyptian vulture.
• Exploring the Salazar Valley: round off your visit with a tour of towns such as Ochagavía, Izalzu or Ezcároz, or pay a visit to the sanctuary of Our Lady of Muskilda.