Lezaundi

Lezaundi is a cave (Cueva de Lezaundi) in the Urbasa mountain range, Navarre, at an elevation of roughly 1,099 meters — the largest cave in Urbasa Natural Park. It lies on the communal land of the Urbasa range, close to the famous Portupekoleze rock arch.

What will you see?

The cave's huge mouth measures 102 meters long, 72 meters wide, and 35 meters high — it most likely formed from the collapse of a large dolina (sinkhole), leaving a semicircular stone ledge surrounding a circular depression. Several smaller openings at the base lead into a network of shafts, halls, and galleries totaling 440 meters in length and reaching around 70 meters in depth.

The cave also holds archaeological significance — Bronze Age ceramics were discovered during surface exploration. The Urbasa massif itself is one of the few places in Navarre where traces of the Lower Paleolithic have been found, marking the oldest known period of human presence in the region.

How to get there?

Popular hiking routes to Lezaundi cave typically run 12–16 km and start from the parking area at Venta de Lizarraga. The trail crosses the scenic Urbasa landscape — beech forests and expansive pastures — and often combines Lezaundi with the nearby Portupekoleze arch into one outing.

When to visit?

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for hiking — moderate temperatures and dry paths make longer routes easier. In summer, it's worth setting out early morning, while in winter you should expect possible ice on the terrain above 1,000 meters elevation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside Lezaundi cave? The huge entrance chamber is accessible to visitors, but the deeper sections (shafts and galleries) require proper caving preparation and equipment.

What archaeological finds were made at Lezaundi? Surface exploration uncovered Bronze Age ceramics, and the wider Urbasa massif has yielded Lower Paleolithic traces — the oldest evidence of human presence in Navarre.

How did this cave form? Most likely through the collapse of a large karst dolina, which explains its distinctive semicircular entrance shape.

Is it worth combining the visit with the Portupekoleze arch? Yes, both sites are close together and form one of the best-known hiking routes in the Sierra de Urbasa.