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Porte Notre-Dame, Rue d'Espagne 64220 Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

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Directions GOLDZIKO & Le légendaire Trésor Basque - Discover gold panning as a family and an unusual activity in the heart of the Basque Country

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    • Goldziko: an unusual activity in the Nive Valley, following in the footsteps of the Tarbelli

      What if the Basque Country held a treasure even the Basques themselves were unaware of? In the Nive Valley, between Itxassou and Banca, Goldziko invites you to a unique and rare experience : becoming a gold prospector in the river. Immerse yourself in the ancient history of the Basque Country, pan in hand, to discover a nearly unknown past.


      An ancient historical secret born in the Basque Country

      The Tarbelli, a tribe that settled in the region in ancient times, were already exploiting the gold deposits using advanced hydraulic extraction methods. Roman military engineers refined these techniques in northwestern Spain, where they opened the largest gold mine of antiquity. This colossal wealth fueled the expansion of the Roman Empire and had a significant impact on global geopolitics.

      Your guide, David, a passionate expert, enthusiastically reveals these secrets. He also discusses gold itself: a chemically indestructible particle, born from the merging of stars billions of years ago, older than the Earth and the Solar System. Contemplating a gold jewel is like observing cosmic dust 5 billion years old.


      An unusual 3-hour tour, accessible to everyone in all weather conditions.

      With Goldziko, learning is fun. You'll discover the techniques of gold panning, how to use a gold pan to separate gold flakes from the sand, and then the methods of jewelry making and gold appraisal. Fun and easy to learn, the activity is suitable for everyone.

      It's suitable for all types of groups: families with children, solo visitors, groups of up to 10 people, company outings, or birthday parties. It takes place in both summer and winter : shelters are set up on the river in case of rain, and the cool water provides up to 10 degrees of relief during periods of intense heat.

      And you won't leave empty-handed: each participant returns with a significant amount of gold, found with their own hands. Reservations are made online, weather permitting.

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Province : Basse Navarre

Opening hours

  • Monday 09:00 am - 12:00 am
  • Tuesday 09:00 am - 12:00 am
  • Wednesday 09:00 am - 12:00 am
  • Thursday 09:00 am - 12:00 am
  • Friday 09:00 am - 12:00 am
  • Saturday 09:00 am - 12:00 am
  • Sunday 09:00 am - 12:00 am