Navarre: guided quad bike tours through the Ultzama. The best route in the world

A guided quad bike tour through Navarre’s stunning Ultzama Valley offers an exciting way to experience the region’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and diverse landscapes. This 3-hour adventure, led by Natur-Quad Ultzama, combines off-road fun with scenic stops and unique local highlights. Starting at Calle la Asunción, 2, the tour features routes through valleys, forests, and panoramic viewpoints, making it ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a lively outdoor activity. With prices beginning at around 130 euros for a two-seater quad, this experience balances adventure, culture, and nature in one memorable ride.

While the tour is particularly suitable for those with a driver’s license and comfortable with moderate physical activity, it offers options for different durations, including shorter 1-hour and 1.5-hour rides starting at 80 euros per person. The guides speak Spanish, French, and English, ensuring clear explanations and local insights. The journey showcases the best of the Ultzama Valley, from mountain passes and dense forests to archaeological and cultural landmarks — giving visitors a well-rounded look at this scenic part of Spain.

Key Points

• Guided quad bike experience through the Ultzama Valley in Navarre
• Three-hour routes, with shorter options available
• Stops at Puerto de Belate, beech forests, and the Millennial Oak of Orkin
• Includes cultural highlights like Abauntz cave and prehistoric map
• Suitable for adults with a driver’s license, not for children under 7 years
• Prices start at 130 euros for two people, with flexible booking options

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Starting Point and Basic Tour Details

The tour departs from Calle la Asunción, 2, where participants meet the guides for safety instructions and equipment. The guided quad bike rides last between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the chosen route, with prices starting at approximately 130 euros for a two-seater quad. Shorter experiences of 1 hour or 1 hour 30 minutes are also available, starting at 80 euros per person.

This flexibility makes it accessible whether you’re seeking a quick adventure or an in-depth exploration of the valley’s landscapes. The small group size — limited to 8 participants — ensures a personalized experience with plenty of attention from the guides.

Exploring the Belate + Ultzama Route

The most popular route, called Belate + part of Ultzama, begins in Arraitz-Orkin and climbs toward the Puerto de Belate. This old mountain pass once linked Pamplona to Bayonne, and today it offers spectacular vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On clear days, views span across the Sierra de Aralar, Urbasa, Peña Izaga, and even reach the Cantabrian Sea in the distance — including landmarks like Mendaur and Larún.

The route then descends along tracks crossing grassy meadows dotted with horses and cows, offering a taste of rural life. The forests along the way are primarily acidophilic beech, similar to those in the Irati Forest, with dense greenery and a peaceful atmosphere. The trip also passes near the Mycological Park of Ultzama, where mushroom picking is possible in the autumn, with permission.

Visiting the Millennial Oak of Orkin and Abauntz Cave

One of the highlights along the route is a visit to the Millennial Oak of Orkin, a Monument of Navarre located just a few meters from the trail. This ancient oak, estimated to be over a thousand years old, symbolizes the enduring natural heritage of the region. While participants do not go inside the tree, the guide explains its significance and history.

Close by, the Abauntz cave captures archaeological interest. The guide points out the site where the Abauntz Map, one of Europe’s oldest prehistoric maps dating back approximately 14,600 years, was found. Although the cave itself is not entered, its importance is explained, providing a fascinating glimpse into early human activity in the area.

Forests and Biodiversity in the Ultzama Protected Area

Much of the route traverses the Robledales de Ultzama y Basaburua, a Protected Landscape and Special Conservation Area recognized for its rich biodiversity and forest wealth. Participants pass through the Orgi Forest, an 80-hectare oak grove with interpretive trails that deepen the connection with local flora and fauna.

The forests are a vibrant mix of oak and beech, creating a lush environment where wildlife like horses and cattle roam freely. The scenery is constantly changing, with dense woods, open meadows, and mountain views providing a rich visual tapestry.

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Cultural Villages and Local Cuisine

Throughout the ride, the route passes through traditional villages with classic architecture and livestock farms. These villages reflect the region’s rural character and longstanding traditions. Visitors can observe farm animals and imagine the local way of life.

The region is also known for its local cuisine, especially its cheeses, curd, and mushrooms, which are often featured in nearby eateries and markets. While the tour itself focuses on the landscapes and sites, it offers a flavor of the area’s authentic gastronomic culture.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The tour ensures flexible cancellation, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking can be made without immediate payment, giving travelers the chance to secure their spot while planning their trip.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and sportswear suitable for outdoor activity. The activity is not suitable for children under 7 years or those without a driver’s license.

Guides speak Spanish, French, and English, making this experience accessible to a broad range of visitors. The small group size guarantees a more personalized and engaging experience with plenty of local stories and explanations.

Why Choose This Quad Bike Tour in Navarre

This experience blends adventure with cultural discovery, providing a comprehensive look at the Ultzama Valley’s natural and historical highlights. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to connect with nature while enjoying the thrill of off-road driving. The route’s combination of forests, meadows, viewpoints, and archaeological sites makes it a well-rounded day out.

The guided nature of the tour, with multilingual guides and the possibility for shorter or longer routes, adds flexibility. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere where questions and interactions are encouraged.

While it requires a driver’s license and some physical mobility, it provides a safe, fun, and eco-friendly way to explore the region’s highlights. The inclusion of cultural landmarks like the Abauntz cave and Millennial Oak sets this tour apart from purely scenic rides, enriching the experience with history.

Final Thoughts on the Navarre Quad Bike Adventure

The guided quad bike tour through the Ultzama Valley offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and adventure. It’s a great way to see the diverse landscapes of northern Navarre while enjoying the fun of off-road riding. The price point is reasonable considering the guided commentary and variety of stops included.

This experience appeals most to those with some driving experience, a curiosity for local history, and a love of outdoor activities. The tour’s length and route are suitable for a half-day outing, leaving plenty of time afterward to explore nearby villages or relax in the region.

If you’re seeking an active way to discover Navarre’s natural beauty and cultural gems, this quad bike tour presents a compelling choice. It combines adventure, education, and scenic vistas into one memorable ride that showcases the best of the Ultzama Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for this tour?
Yes, children under 7 years are not allowed to participate.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, participants must have a valid driver’s license to take part in the quad bike tour.

How long does the tour last?
The longest routes are 3 hours, with shorter options of 1 hour or 1 hour 30 minutes available.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, French, and English.

What should I bring?
Participants should wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and sportswear suitable for outdoor activities.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Are food or drinks included?
The tour focuses on landscapes and cultural sites; there are no specified food or drinks included.

Is this activity suitable for families?
It is suitable for families with children over 7, but the activity is more geared toward those seeking adventure and exploration.

What is the price for the tour?
Prices start at approximately 130 euros for two people for the longest route. Shorter rides are available from 80 euros per person.

Where does the tour start and end?
The activity begins and ends at Calle la Asunción, 2.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby