Vasco-Navarro Greenway
A scenic greenway following an old railway, offering diverse landscapes, historic tunnels, and viaducts for cycling and walking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities
Vasco-Navarro Greenway
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic greenway following an old railway, offering diverse landscapes, historic tunnels, and viaducts for cycling and walking.
"A picturesque route with historical charm, perfect for a scenic bike ride or walk."
Bring Your Own Water 💧
Taps along the route may not be functional, so carry ample water for your journey .
Cycle or Walk Sections 🚴♀️
The full 120km route is extensive; consider shorter, scenic sections like Ancin to Zuñiga .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Viaducto de Arquijas
Arquijas Gorge
A stunning nine-arch viaduct, nearly 30m high, over the Ega River. A declared Historical Monument!
Acedo Tunnel
Near Acedo
Over a kilometer long, this illuminated tunnel offers a unique and memorable cycling or walking experience.
Ancin to Zuñiga Section
Navarre
A beautiful stretch offering picturesque landscapes, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Your Journey
Pack Smart for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Water 💧
Taps along the route may not be functional, so carry ample water for your journey.
Cycle or Walk Sections 🚴♀️
The full 120km route is extensive; consider shorter, scenic sections like Ancin to Zuñiga.
Check for Detours ⚠️
The Laminoria tunnel may be blocked, requiring a detour through the mountains.
Respect the History 🚂
This route follows the old Vasco Navarro Railway, so appreciate the preserved stations and viaducts.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Water 💧
Taps along the route may not be functional, so carry ample water for your journey.
Cycle or Walk Sections 🚴♀️
The full 120km route is extensive; consider shorter, scenic sections like Ancin to Zuñiga.
Check for Detours ⚠️
The Laminoria tunnel may be blocked, requiring a detour through the mountains.
Respect the History 🚂
This route follows the old Vasco Navarro Railway, so appreciate the preserved stations and viaducts.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Essential for enjoying the varied terrain, whether you're walking or cycling.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Vasco-Navarro Greenway for its picturesque landscapes and historical significance, offering a well-preserved route for cycling and walking. The transformation of the old railway line into a scenic trail is a major highlight, with iconic structures like viaducts and tunnels adding to its charm. While generally accessible, some note the need for better maintenance regarding trash cans and working water taps.
"Easy and picturesque return day trip on a hybrid bike from Vitoria to the Lamanoria tunnel (42km). Bring water, none of the taps on the way are working."
Mark H
"Recommended for a short walk and getting to know this area of the great green ring that surrounds the city of Vitoria. It is very well preserved, both the road itself and the bridges and rest areas.
Maybe planting trees on the edges of the path would be more pleasant since you are close to the road. There is also a need for trash cans, there is not one along the entire route."
Sergio López
"Vasco Navarro Green Route
The Vasco Navarro Green Route is one of the most interesting routes in northern Spain, both for its scenic value and its historical significance. The route uses the route of the old Vasco Navarro Railway, popularly known as "the little train," which operated for much of the 20th century and connected Estella-Lizarra, in Navarre, with Vitoria-Gasteiz and Bergara, in the Basque Country. Today, transformed into a green route, it offers walkers and cyclists the opportunity to relive the memory of that railway while enjoying a diverse and charming landscape.
The route stretches over 120 kilometers, although it can be covered in sections depending on the visitor's time and interest. Along the way, you'll pass through tunnels, viaducts, and renovated old stations, which keep the railway's memory alive and add a nostalgic air to the route. One of the most spectacular sections is the one that crosses the Acedo Tunnel, over a kilometer long, which is now illuminated and adapted for bicycle and pedestrian traffic.
The greenway passes through a wide variety of landscapes: from Rioja Alavesa vineyards to mountainous areas and agricultural valleys, making it a complete experience for those who enjoy both nature and local culture. Furthermore, it is a route suitable for all ages, as most of the route has a gentle slope, making it easy to practice sports without great physical demands.
In short, the Vasco Navarro Greenway is a perfect option for those looking for a combination of outdoor activities, railway history, and unforgettable landscapes. Walking it offers a journey into the past with the comfort of the present, and a sustainable way to discover the natural and cultural richness of Álava and Navarre."
Juan R.B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Greenway is easily accessible from Vitoria-Gasteiz. Many visitors start their journey from the city, with popular sections like the one towards the Lamanoria tunnel being common day trip destinations. Public transport options to nearby towns along the route are also available.
While the Greenway itself is a trail, you can reach various access points via local buses. For instance, buses from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Bilbao run frequently, and you can disembark at towns that offer access to the route.
Yes, the Vasco-Navarro Greenway extends into Navarre. The section between Ancin and Zuñiga is particularly scenic and accessible from towns in that region.
Buses are the most convenient option, running hourly between Vitoria-Gasteiz and Bilbao. This allows for easy day trips to sections of the Greenway accessible from either city.
Parking availability varies by access point. Larger towns along the route, like those in Álava or Navarre, generally offer more parking options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Vasco-Navarro Greenway is a public route and does not require an entrance fee. You can access and explore it freely.
As an outdoor public trail, the Greenway is accessible 24/7. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment, especially when passing through tunnels.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's important to respect the natural environment and historical structures. Always follow local guidelines and be mindful of other users.
While there isn't one single official map for the entire 120km, many local tourism websites and cycling/hiking apps provide detailed route information and maps for different sections.
Yes, these are iconic landmarks along the public Greenway and are freely accessible to all visitors.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Greenway is generally considered to have medium to low difficulty, with a gentle slope for most of its length, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
You'll encounter diverse scenery, including vineyards in Rioja Alavesa, mountainous areas, agricultural valleys, forests, and charming villages.
The route has renovated old stations that serve as rest areas. However, some reviews mention a lack of trash cans and non-working water taps.
Yes, its gentle slope and varied scenery make it a great option for families. Shorter, well-maintained sections are ideal for younger children.
If the Laminoria tunnel is blocked, you'll need to take a detour through the mountains towards Musitu. This section can be more challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
The Viaducto de Arquijas 
are highly photogenic. The scenic landscapes between Ancin and Zuñiga
It's best to stop your bike in a safe location before taking photos to avoid accidents and to fully capture the scenery.
Morning and late afternoon light often provide the most dramatic and appealing conditions for landscape photography.
The old railway stations, bridges, and tunnels are remnants of the 'little train's' past and offer a nostalgic backdrop for photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and structures like viaducts. A good phone camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Cycling Enthusiasts
Popular day trips include the route to the Lamanoria tunnel from Vitoria-Gasteiz.🚶♀️ Nature Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Vasco-Navarro Railway
Today, its transformation into a greenway allows visitors to not only enjoy the natural beauty of the region but also to connect with this industrial heritage. The preserved stations, tunnels, and viaducts serve as tangible reminders of the railway's past, adding a layer of historical depth to the experience. Exploring these remnants offers a unique perspective on the region's development and the impact of the railway on its people.
Many travelers find the historical aspect of the route particularly engaging. The idea of cycling or walking where a train once ran evokes a sense of nostalgia and adventure. It's a way to experience the landscape through the lens of its past, appreciating how the infrastructure has been repurposed for modern recreation and conservation.
Cycling the Greenway: Tips and Routes
Many visitors opt for day trips, using Vitoria-Gasteiz as a base. A common route is cycling to the Lamanoria tunnel and back, a journey of about 42km round trip.When planning your cycling adventure, be aware of potential detours. The Laminoria tunnel, a significant feature, may be blocked, requiring a more challenging mountain route to Musitu.
Navigating the Greenway: Walking and Accessibility
While the main path is generally well-preserved, it's advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes. Be prepared for varying terrain, especially if you encounter any detours. The historical elements, such as old railway stations and viaducts, add an interesting dimension to the walk, providing opportunities to learn about the region's past. Remember to bring water and snacks, as amenities can be limited along certain stretches.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit