In the Pyrenees of Navarre, at the entrance to the picturesque Roncal Valley (Valle de Roncal), lies the small village of Burgui (Burgui), which has preserved its original authenticity. Its cobbled streets, the ancient medieval bridge, and the gentle murmur of the Esca River (río Ezka) together create a unique atmosphere where nature and centuries-old traditions exist in perfect harmony. This place, which recently drew the attention of global publications, remains one of the region’s least-known gems.
Burgui stands out among other Pyrenean villages for two unique features. First, the natural pool formed by the Esca River, right in the heart of the village, transforms into an open-air spa during the summer months. Second, the spectacular gorge described as a place of “colossal proportions.” These two highlights underline Burgui’s uniqueness, where historical heritage seamlessly blends with breathtaking landscapes.
The Esca River has always been at the heart of village life, shaping its economy in the past thanks to timber rafting. Today, this tradition lives on in the annual “Día de la Almadía” (Day of the Raftsman) festival, which holds the status of a national tourist interest event. Every April, the Asociación Cultural de Almadieros Navarros organizes the descent of wooden rafts along the river, drawing large crowds of onlookers. This vibrant event commemorates a craft that was once vital for the entire valley.
Burgui also preserves traditional Pyrenean architecture and ancient crafts. A special circular “Crafts Route” (Ruta de los oficios), stretching four kilometers, has been created for tourists. Walking its path, visitors can see restored bread ovens, charcoal pits, medieval icehouses, and an old sawmill that vividly illustrate the way of life in past centuries. The cultural heritage is further enriched by a medieval bridge with four arches and the church of San Pedro (iglesia de San Pedro), which houses relics from the famous Monasterio de Leyre (Monasterio de Leyre).
A visit to Burgui would be incomplete without sampling the local cuisine. In the village center, the restaurant El Almadiero serves homemade dishes made from quality local ingredients. To try one of the region’s specialties, be sure to stop by the Quesos Larra cheese dairy. Here, the renowned Roncal cheese (queso Roncal), which has protected designation of origin status, is produced. At the dairy’s shop, you can not only taste the cheese but also watch how it is made through a special viewing window.
Just a few minutes from the village, the Esca River carves its way between the mountain ranges of Sierra de Illón and Sierra de la Peña, forming the Foz de Burgui gorge. Declared a nature reserve in 1998, this area is home to one of the largest colonies of vultures in Europe. Marked hiking trails allow visitors to explore this rugged yet breathtaking landscape, with its sheer cliffs, fir forests, and peaks rising over 1,200 meters. Burgui offers a journey into the heart of a valley that has preserved its unique character.
