About this place
Portupekoleze is a spectacular rock arch in the Urbasa mountain range, Navarre, part of the Urbasa-Andía Natural Park. The formation emerged from a karst landscape — millions of years ago the sea covered the area, and limestone formed from the remains of marine organisms was gradually shaped by water into a system of sinkholes, caves, and curious rock formations, including this arch.
What will you see?
Portupekoleze rises from a deep sinkhole (dolina) — a huge natural rock bridge greets visitors with a structure of vaults, spires, and buttresses that change shape depending on the viewing angle. It's one of Navarre's most photogenic spots, increasingly popular on social media. Nearby lies the Lezaundi cave — the largest cave in Urbasa Natural Park — well worth combining into a single outing.
How to get there?
The hiking route to the Portupekoleze arch usually starts from the parking area at Venta de Lizarraga and winds through the Urbasa-Andía landscape — beech forests and expansive pastures. Popular routes combining Portupekoleze with the Lezaundi cave typically run 12 to 16 km.
When to visit?
The best conditions are in spring and autumn, when temperatures suit longer hikes and paths stay dry. In summer, the beech forests provide shade, but it's worth setting out early morning; in winter the terrain can turn icy and requires extra caution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive directly to the Portupekoleze arch? Not directly — you need to park at Venta de Lizarraga and continue on foot along the marked trail.
Is it worth combining the visit with Lezaundi cave? Definitely — both sites lie close together and form one of the most popular hiking routes in the Sierra de Urbasa.
How difficult is the trail? The route is moderately demanding, accessible to hikers of average fitness, though its length (12-16 km) calls for proper preparation.
Where does this rock formation come from? It's the result of limestone erosion by water in a typical karst landscape — a process spanning millions of years, characteristic of the whole Urbasa-Andía range.
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