Odieta

Amidst slopes covered in beech and oak trees, the River Ultzama flows through Odieta with a quiet grace that defines the entire landscape. This valley, set apart from the busiest routes, retains a serene atmosphere where the villages cluster around stone and silence, maintaining a constant connection with their surroundings. In Odieta, the ancient towers, the paths between hamlets and the ever-present forest shape a territory with a strong sense of identity. Odieta reveals itself little by little, in the details of its houses, in the contours of the landscape and in the continuity of a life bound to the land.

Odieta general information

Odieta is situated in a transitional area shaped by the River Ultzama. The valley is organised around this river axis, which structures the territory and divides the landscape into distinct areas. The sub-Atlantic climate favours the presence of beech forests in the higher areas and oak forests at lower altitudes. Among its peaks, Mount Aldaun stands out, at an altitude of 914 metres.

Historically, Odieta is linked to the figure of Sancho de Elso, considered one of the first authors to write in the Basque language in Navarre during the 16th century. Today, Odieta’s economy is based on livestock farming and forestry. 

What to see in Odieta?

In Odieta, you can visit various examples of rural architecture and religious heritage.

• San Urbano Chapel (Gaskue): An 18th-century Baroque building linked to the valley’s folk traditions.  
• Parish churches: Buildings reflecting different historical periods, such as San Esteban in Gaskue, Santa Catalina in Ziaurritz or San Juan Bautista in Ostitz.  
• Traditional architecture: Ashlar-built houses and complexes such as Casa Zalbatorena (Anotzibar) or Casa Jauregia (Ziaurritz), representative of the Navarrese rural style.  
• Network of local footpaths: Paths connecting the various villages and allowing visitors to explore the valley on foot, including areas of geological interest.  
• Erripa Tower: Former Cabo de Armería palace, the only one preserved in the valley.