Starting point Pozalagua Cave

Our day plan takes us to Karrantza, the westernmost valley in the Enkarterri region. We start the day by visiting the Pozalagua Cave.

The cave is situated in the heart of the Armañón Natural Park. This cathedral-like underground world is home to the highest concentration of eccentric stalactites in the world. These peculiar formations grow randomly in all directions, defying gravity and forming a spellbinding mosaic. The cave was discovered by chance following an explosion in a nearby quarry that opened up a hole in the mountain. On the other side, a dazzling underground universe emerged. The visit takes you past stalactites, stalagmites and flows, and culminates with a viewpoint that presents the cavern in all of its splendour.

Facing the cave is the Parketxea or Armañón Natural Park Information Centre, which presents all of its secrets through a permanent exhibition and viewpoint with spectacular views.

Once the visit is over, you can recharge your batteries at the bar-restaurant next to the cave or head to the centre of the valley where there’s a wide and varied range of cuisine on offer. In Karrantza you can opt to visit BBK Karpin Fauna, a refuge for more than 55 different species of animals that can no longer live in the wild, or immerse yourself in part of industrial history by visiting the Dolomitas Museum.

Lastly, around 15 km from the Karrantza Valley, is Lanestosa, a charming town where time seems to have stood still since its foundation in the 13th century. The municipality, the smallest in Bizkaia, is perfect for delving into and walking around its historic centre of cobbled alleyways, medieval bridges and traditional houses with continuous balconies. The surroundings of the town are encircled by great mountain massifs full of hiking routes and perfect viewpoints.