Nestled in the heart of the Baztan valley, at the foot of the Pyrenees, lies a small town that seems to come alive anew in autumn. Elizondo, the administrative and cultural center of the region, becomes a magnet every October for those seeking something more than just beautiful scenery. Here, every corner breathes history, and the atmosphere evokes times past, when noble families and enterprising returnees from America once walked these streets.
The town impresses with its architectural heritage: grand mansions with coat-of-arms, massive stone facades, and wooden balconies line the main streets, each recalling a bygone era. Among them stands out the Arizkunenea (Arizkunenea) palace, once home to counts and governors, now transformed into a vibrant cultural center for locals and visitors alike.
Despite its aristocratic appearance, Elizondo has not lost touch with its popular traditions. In the Middle Ages, important decisions were made here at residents’ assemblies—batzarre (batzarre)—and this spirit of unity is still felt today in the Fueros square and the church of Santiago, which was once dismantled stone by stone and rebuilt after heated disputes.
But it is not only history that makes Elizondo special. In autumn, the surrounding forests blaze with vibrant colors, and the Baztan River divides the town in two, creating picturesque views at the Muniartea bridge and the Txokoto dam. These spots look as if they’ve come straight from a postcard, so it’s no wonder that photographers and artists are drawn here.
October is especially lively here: local food markets, folk festivals, and Basque pelota competitions take place. In recent years, Elizondo has also gained literary fame thanks to Dolores Redondo’s trilogy, set precisely in this region. Now, not only nature enthusiasts come here, but also fans of detective stories.
Among the attractions, the Puriosenea house is worth noting—one of the oldest in the town. It currently hosts an ethnographic museum where visitors can learn about the life, crafts, and celebrations of this unique corner of Navarre.
