Bidasoa Greenway

The path that runs alongside the river

Here, where the River Bidasoa sets the pace of the valley and the old bridges still bear witness to the passage of the train, the Bidasoa Greenway winds its way through Atlantic forests, farmsteads and small villages in northern Navarre. The old railway line has left behind the clamour of industry to become a peaceful route that follows the river’s course to the shores of the Cantabrian Sea.

On one side lie wet meadows and slopes covered in oak trees; on the other, tunnels carved into the rock, forgotten stations and old iron structures blending into the landscape. The route invites you to explore the valley at a leisurely pace, following the course of the water and the memory of the old ‘Tren Txikito’.

Bidasoa Greenway – general information

The Bidasoa Greenway follows part of the old railway line that once linked Irún with the Endarlatsa mines and, later, with various points in the Navarran valley. The current route is around 42 kilometres long and connects the area around the Señorío de Bertiz with Behobia, very close to the river’s mouth. Its virtually flat profile and minimal gradient make the route one of the most accessible in Navarre for hiking and family cycling.

The original railway line began operating in the late 19th century as a means of transport for the mining industry. Over time, it also carried passengers and goods between Gipuzkoa and northern Navarre, forming part of daily life in the valley’s villages for decades. Today, the route forms part of international projects such as EuroVelo 1 and Ederbidea, integrating into a network of trails that combine nature, heritage and sustainable mobility.

How do you get to the Bidasoa Greenway?

The route has various access points in both Navarre and Gipuzkoa.

• Oieregi: The most common starting point is next to the Señorío de Bertiz, surrounded by Atlantic forest and very close to the Bidasoa River.
• Behobia: At the northern end, the route connects with the French border and the area around Irún via the Pausu Bridge.
• Intermediate access points: Towns such as Doneztebe/Santesteban, Sunbilla, Lesaka and Bera allow easy access to different sections of the route. Currently, the section between Zalain Zoko and Endarlatsa remains closed due to landslides.

What to do on the Bidasoa Greenway?

The route combines lush countryside, railway heritage and some of the greenest landscapes in northern Navarre.

• Exploring the valley by bike or on foot: The gentle gradient of the route makes for easy going without steep climbs, making it a very comfortable option for families and leisurely walks.
• Discover the Bertiz Estate: The route begins next to one of Navarre’s best-known natural areas, featuring historic gardens, footpaths and Atlantic forest.
• Passing through tunnels and old railway halts: The route retains several tunnels and railway remains that recall the valley’s industrial past and the old train route.
• Visit the villages of the Bidasoa: Doneztebe, Sunbilla, Lesaka or Bera boast traditional architecture closely linked to the Atlantic landscape, with farmhouses, stone bridges and quiet streets.
• Observe river life: At certain points, you can see fish ladders and areas frequented by salmon, as well as birds and species typical of northern rivers.
• Admire the historic bridges: The route crosses or runs alongside medieval bridges and historic structures that are still part of daily life in the valley’s villages.