Hiking in Izki Nature Park

Located in Álava, Izki Natural Park is a paradise for hiking and wildlife observation. It lies about 30 kilometers from Vitoria-Gasteiz, the largest city in Álava, and comprises deep forests, the aptly named Izki River, and mountains reaching up to 1176m (Mount Kapildui). We started from the Korres area and enjoyed a beautiful hike to see some waterfalls. Perfect for cooling off on hot summer days! Shall we go?

Izki Nature Park

North of the Cantabrian Mountains, the Izki Natural Park is a magnificent expanse of forest covering approximately 9,000 hectares. It is dotted with small rivers, including the Izki River (the largest), and offers beautiful hikes where water is ever-present, providing stunning scenery of waterfalls, gorges, rock formations, lagoons, and canals. The charming hamlet of Korres is an ideal starting point. Stop by for a coffee and visit the Park Information Center to gather information and plan your hikes. The center houses a permanent exhibition on the local flora and fauna. You'll find plenty of information and can pick up guidebooks, books on birdwatching, and details about seasonal activities for visitors. Guided hikes, discovery workshops, and sports activities —there's something for everyone, regardless of age or interests.

The villages and hamlets (San Román de Campezo, Durruma Kanpezu, Quitana, Urturi, Markinez, Maeztu …) are scattered throughout the mountains, often accompanied by beautiful parish churches and hermitages (Virgen de la Peña in Korres).

Birdwatchers shouldn't forget their binoculars, as the park is home to numerous species, including the Middle Spotted Woodpecker, whose population remains significant here despite declining elsewhere. Booted Eagles, Sparrowhawks, and Short-toed Eagles are easily spotted by keen eyes! Otters, minks, foxes, beech martens, wild boars, and small deer... the park is a haven for wildlife.

In Korres, a large parking area with a playground is an ideal spot for a picnic. There are also barbecue tables available depending on the season, and overnight parking is permitted. Within the park, numerous rural accommodations are available for a stay that allows you to meet locals and experience the region's typical environment.

Hike from Antoñana to the waterfalls

Since we were there on a very hot summer day, we didn't want to embark on an exposed hike and instead opted to explore the beech, holm oak, and maple forests around the small village of Antoñana. A large parking lot allows you to leave your vehicle just outside the hamlet. It's worth noting that there's another interpretive center in Antoñana; it's quite amusing as it's located in an old train, completely covered in graffiti!

We set off on foot towards the hamlet. Enjoy the pretty church and the charming village center. Continue by veering slightly right towards the Aguaque Waterfalls. Be careful! Don't take the path to the left that goes uphill; stay and follow the signs in the valley for now. We'll reach a canal and follow it until we arrive at a beautiful spot with waterfalls. Popular with locals, we saw families with children also enjoying the coolness of this place. There wasn't much water when we passed, but enough to create a pleasant atmosphere under the canopy of trees! We enjoy climbing, so we explored the higher ground to a climbing area, and by climbing a little further, you'll reach a beautiful viewpoint. Continuing uphill through the forest, you'll reach a road (the Arrabal Path ) which, if followed, will lead you to another very pleasant and beautiful, larger waterfall : the Cascada del Molino de Oteo. It's possible to reach it via the footpaths, but we got lost and preferred to stay on the road… Head towards the ruins to reach the waterfall just a few dozen meters away. A superb and little-known spot ! The locals wonder what two tourists are doing here!

From this second mill, there's a path leading east, which allows you to make a loop back to the hamlet of Antoñana. To find your way, check Google Maps. The village, the two waterfalls, and the various trails are clearly marked!

What to do around Park Izki?

Did you like our article? Find more in our Top Experiences section.

We're also on social media, come check out the Guide du Pays Basque Facebook page and our Instagram account @guidedupaysbasque