We'll take you on a truly unique hike to a little-known paradise... La Ruta del Agua is a series of waterfalls and pools with turquoise , transparent waters that are very cool... In the heart of summer or on a beautiful sunny day, come and sit on the banks of the Inglares River. A magical place to discover with your family, a gem!

Photos from the report: Basque Country Guide


The water route, a unique place!

Follow the Inglares River, in the heart of the Sierra de Cantabria, along a hike in Berganzo, about 8km, on a very easy path to do with the family (it's a loop). You are about 40 minutes from Vitoria and 50 minutes from Logroño.


Very important information: It is imperative to park in the Berganzo car park. This is a paid parking lot, and you must use your smartphone with available network (you will give your license plate number), which is not an easy thing to do... Don't hesitate to ask around or go a little further to access the site where you can pay for parking (a paltry sum) and open the barrier. Do not park in the village! Do not park in the surrounding area either because you risk a fine. In summer it is a very busy place and if the car park exists, it is because users parked anywhere, disturbing the peace of the inhabitants and their private properties. Parking is authorized from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and for 50 cars.

The Water Route
The Water Route
The Water Route
The Water Route


Leave the parking lot and head along the Ruta del Agua (the water road) following the signs. You will pass through the village of Berganzo and then take a small path. You will hear the tumult of the river before seeing it (on your left). The river reveals itself and its blue color will surprise you! The waters are crystal clear, ideal for swimming and the banks are welcoming to lay your towel. Don't stop right away, it gets even prettier as you walk along the path! You will come across the Herrerías Waterfall, one of the prettiest, then you will join the canal to supply the Berganzo hydroelectric dam. The path continues on the heights of the valley while following the canal, which sometimes plunges under the rock face.


Read the article on the Water Route on the Tourist Office website.

The Water Route
The Water Route
The Water Route
The Water Route
The Water Route
The Water Route

SIERRA SALVADA BUBBLES

SIERRA SALVADA BUBBLES
  • Unusual Accommodation
  • Ayala

Stay in a bubble with a jacuzzi in the heart of the Spanish Basque Country

46,4 km

SANTIAGO APARTMENTS

SANTIAGO APARTMENTS
  • Gite & Holiday Rental
  • Bilbao

Discover the best accommodation prices in Bilbao

66,8 km

Balneario Casa Pallotti

Balneario Casa Pallotti
  • Hotels
  • Carranza

Hotel, restaurant, and spa in the Karrantza Valley

75,5 km


Swimming is allowed in the river, despite the fact that the site is protected by the Natura 2000 classification. We recommend that you be respectful of this magical place, not damaging the rock formations or the banks. We have not found any information on this subject, it is possible that the color of the water is due to the presence of karsts, suspended limestone, agitated by the eddy, which gives its amazing color to the water. This site is wonderful to spend a hot summer afternoon. We met mostly locals, who come with their families, not to hike but to settle down by the water and spend a beautiful day relaxing.


The Water Route


Things to do and see nearby


  • You are not far from Rioja Alavesa. Come visit Labastida and enjoy some wine tourism. The landscapes of this region are surprising and magnificent. Gastronomy is not to be outdone, you will enjoy yourself, at the tables of small family restaurants and in the wineries ( bodegas ).
  • Not far away is Leza, a pretty little village to visit, surrounded by vineyards and perched on a hill, like many villages in the region.
  • Laguardia and Elciego are also less than 30 minutes away by car, passing through breathtaking landscapes, including the " Balcony of Rioja " which is not to be missed under any circumstances.
  • Read our guide to visiting the region to prepare your stay in Alava
  • Do you like sports? Head to the Sobron via ferrata , just a few kilometers away – it'll make your head spin!

Did you like our article? Find more on the Basque Country Guide blog . We are also on social media, visit the Basque Country Guide Facebook page , as well as our Instagram account @guidedupaysbasque


The Water Route


Back to "Sport"