Where can you sleep?
Navarra is much more than the so famous Sanfermines and the city of Pamplona, even though these are the two main tourist attractions.
We must let you know that rural tourism is slowly taking the reins of the majority of the tourism in this area, thus introducing to visitors the impressive, magical beauty of the towns scattered in the region, both in the highest parts, as well as in the plain in la Ribera.
Some of the locations that we would like to recommend you are utmost examples of the more traditional Navarra, which have preserved the essence of tradition in this region.
One of the most popular destinations here is Olite, which was founded during the reign of Charles III of Spain, and which provides one of the most postcard-like views of the province: the Palacio Real. By the church of Santa María la Real you will also find a village full of true medieval character.
Ochogavía is another of the places we recommend for its postcard-like views, with its riverside houses, made mainly with stone.
One of the stops of the pilgrimage of Camino de Santiago is in Roncesvalles, always open to visitors and also a place full of contrasts.
But if we are talking about beautiful places, we mustn't forget to mention Ujué, a small town that also works as a viewpoint, and where you can see some of the most spectacular views of the province.
On the other hand, if you also want to enjoy staying in the capital we recommend you start looking for
What to do in the area?
There are many things to explore here in Navarra. You can find here a large number of tourist and cultural options that will allow you to discover a place full of history and legends.
There are options for nature-lovers, history-lovers, and for those who would prefer to enjoy of a more cultural visit.
Amongst the first ones, we find the Nacimiento de Urederra, a true natural gem that you cannot miss, and which holds a great number of elements that have made of this natural place one of the most relevant ones, and of the highest natural value in the country. If you're looking for more quiet place that is close to nature, you must visit the thermal baths Baños de Fitero, which have been visited by important figures such as the Spanish writer Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer.
Amongst the other elements that remind us of Navarra's medieval past, you can find the palace or castle in Olite, and the castle in Cortes. And amongst the ones that indicate its religious tradition are the monasteries in Irache and the one of La Oliva, and the chapel of Santa María de Eunate.
Older than Middle Ages are the archaeological findings from the Roman times that can be found in Andelos, near the town de Mendigorría.
And, of course, to finish with the perfect cultural visit, Calle Estafeta in Pamplona is one of the busiest ones in the region during the Sanfermines, which are worldwide famous.
What typical foods are recommended?
Navarra's gastronomy can't be understood without the influence of its neighbouring regions. The influence of the gastronomy from Aragón, País Vasco and France, together with the local essence, have filled Navarra's recipe book with an endless number of dishes where great contrasts of flavours are met.
Just like its geography is divided in different areas, so does its cuisine, depending on where you are staying and the local products you can find.
Meats such as beef and lamb predominate in the areas near the mountains, and deriving from them are some of the most popular local cheeses, such as the Idiazábal, and Roncal PDO.
Curd and cottage cheese are also some other key local delicies.
From the middle part of the province we recommend the local vegetable produce, together with mushrooms and truffles, the star product of Navarra's gastronomy. Other loca vegetable products include asparagus, or peppers, the main ingredient of many recipes.
To finish this gastronomical journey, the cuisine of the area of La Ribera is a mixture of the colours, red, green and yellow, and of vegetable products that are combined and served with some of the best local white and red wines.
Where are the festivities?
Navarra is a place of many traditions and festivities, where you will be able to enjoy of its longtime traditions and culture, with plenty of special occasions that will be the perfect excuse to move around the province and learn about its history.
The festivities celebrated in San Fermín are, without question, the main festivity of Navarra par excellence. Worldwide famous, it welcomes thousands of visitors every year that come to enjoy of its bullfighting tradition, and of the running of the bulls, its music and its gastronomy each 7th of July. 7
The 'romerías' at the beginning of spring are also a popular celebration in this province that you will be able to join in places like Ujué, Roncesvalles and Labiano amongst others.
And just like everywhere else in Spain, Easter is also celebrated widely and passionately in Navarra, which means that you won't miss the chance of having a closer look at this event during your next holidays.
