Nestled in the heart of the Navarre Pyrenees, Osate campsite is becoming one of the most sought-after getaways for the December holidays. Its popularity is thanks to its unique location next to the Irati Forest and a wide range of accommodations, from cozy wooden cabins to distinctive Comanche tents. This spot is ideal for anyone looking to escape the city and unwind among beech groves and majestic mountains.
At first glance, this might seem like a typical campsite in northern Navarre, but Osate is in fact one of the highest-rated destinations for nature lovers seeking comfort and easy access to the Salazar Valley’s hiking trails. Located just 300 meters from the charming village of Ochagavía-Otsagabia, the campsite serves as a perfect base for exploring the Irati Forest, even without a car—an especially valuable advantage during the peak of the autumn and winter seasons.
Accommodation options
Osate campsite offers a wide range of lodging, from the most basic options to fully equipped cabins—perfect for a long December weekend. For example, a bungalow for two with bunk beds, heating, TV, and a kitchen costs €130 for two nights. A three-person unit with a double bed and sofa bed is €176, while a four-person bungalow with a double bed and two bunk beds is €196.
Larger companies can opt for more spacious options. A bungalow for five people with three rooms can be rented for €304, while a two-story house for eight guests costs €340 for two nights. Wooden cabins offer two bedrooms, a living room with a TV, a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom, and a veranda for €264. For those seeking a unique experience, Comanche tents accommodate four people and come with foam mattresses, mosquito nets, and lighting. Finally, the so-called ‘pods’ feature a double and a single bed, a kitchen and refrigerator, and are priced at €144 for two nights.
The Heart of the Salazar Valley
This campsite is located right in the center of the Salazar Valley, one of the main gateways to the second largest beech-fir forest in Europe after the famous Black Forest. From here, you can easily access popular hiking trails like Errekaydorra, Sabaleta, or the path around the Irabia Reservoir. Despite the area’s popularity during holidays, the vast grounds ensure it never feels crowded.
How to get there
To reach the Osate campsite by car from Pamplona, the most direct route is via the NA-150 road to Lumbier, then take the NA-178 towards Escároz and Ochagavía. The drive passes through the picturesque Salazar Valley, offering beautiful views of charming villages and mountain landscapes. The campsite is located at Carretera de Salazar s/n, 31680 – Ochagavía (Navarra). You can also access it from France via the Larrau pass, which is convenient for travelers coming from the Basque Country or southwestern France.
By the way, the Irati Forest (Selva de Irati) is a vast natural treasure designated as a Special Protection Area. It’s a true paradise for birdwatchers, hikers, and anyone who appreciates unspoiled nature. The forest is especially famous for its vivid autumn colors, when the beech leaves turn shades of gold and crimson. The area is divided between Spain (Navarra) and France, making it a unique cross-border natural site.
