Mountains and mythology – Spain’s Urkiola Natural Park by MTB

The Urkiola Natural Park in the province of Vizcaya is a paradise. Its mountains, crags and valleys are brimming with mythology and culture. Numerous routes, geared towards every ability level, help you enjoy the fantastic rural scenery here. Close to the town of Durango, this area boasts quaint Basque-style farmhouses, rivers, diverse flora and fauna and the famous Basque horse.

On these three MTB routes, you discover the heart of the Urkiola Natural Park, the Anboto – its most precious jewel – and panoramic views of this small mountain range from Santa Luzia. Durango, a small town, is your basecamp. To get here, catch the EuskoTren train from Bilbao centre; you can take your bike with you in certain carriages.

In terms of mileage, the routes are not very demanding, but the gradients are tough. The northern Basque Country is mountainous so the terrain is steep. Nonetheless, you’ll come across plenty of people enjoying the outdoors here: by bicycle or on foot, as well as running, climbing or caving.

In this Collection, the longest route is the 91-kilometre (56 mi) ‘Mountains and Mythology’ trail which delves deep into the natural park. I’ve divided it into two days as the altitude differences are 1,640 and 1,140 metres (5,380 and 3,740 ft) respectively. You may have to push your bike up some climbs – a perfect excuse to enjoy the views.

On the first day, you can spend the night at Agroturismo Etxebarri in the village of Otxandio before continuing on the second part of the route. Don’t forget one of the highlights of the natural park: the Anboto. It is said that Amari, the goddess of Basque mythology lives on this peak. Pol-Pol and Zabalandi are incredible mountains too.

On the most moderate of the four routes, you ride to Santa Luzia, enjoying panoramic views of this enclave in the region of Duranguesado. Don’t forget to check the forecast before heading out though. In northern Spain it tends to rain a lot, although the weather has changed over the last few years. From mid-spring to October, there’s less rainfall and more daylight.

Camping inside the natural park is forbidden. But, it’s possible to stay overnight provided you set up and pack down your tent with the sun as there’s no accommodation in the area.

You can divide these routes into more days if you choose. The return to Anboto and the longest route are worth doing in three days, depending on your physical shape and preference. This natural park offers a wide range of experiences: it takes you into the Basque culture, its green meadows, small villages, gastronomy, mystical mist and mythology. Nature envelops you with every pedal stroke, with quiet roads and tracks and plenty of scenery to enjoy!