Camping in Navarra

The province of Navarre is known far beyond Spain for its time-honoured capital Pamplona and the bull races held there. The region also has a unique natural landscape to offer, which is mainly characterised by the mountains of the Pyrenees in the north. In contrast, the semi-desert Bardenas Reales in the south-east is a popular excursion destination for fans of breathtaking landscapes.

Special features of camping in Navarre, Spain

Anyone travelling to Navarre for camping can spend their holiday on the fertile slopes of the Pyrenees, for example. The wooded mountains and remote, wild rivers and streams are ideal for active leisure activities. Around Erratzu, Elizondo and Roncesvalles, for example, you can go hiking, mountain biking and kayaking.

Basque rural culture is well preserved in the region. Traditional handicrafts made from wood and chilli cultivation are characteristic of the western Pyrenees. South of the mountains lies the capital Pamplona, where you can admire the historic architecture. Many smaller towns in Navarre also impress with their majestic castles, which date back to the time of the kingdom.

Journey

From Germany, you first travel to France by motorhome, caravan or car. It is possible to cross the border in Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland. The first stop on the French side is Alsace or Lorraine. The many Gothic buildings and half-timbered architecture are particularly worth seeing there.

Afterwards, it is best to travel to Paris and take a few days to climb the Eiffel Tower or see the exhibits in the Louvre, for example. To the south of Paris, take the A10 motorway towards Bordeaux, France's famous wine metropolis. Here, holidaymakers are only 400 km away from their destination. Continue along the A63 to Bayonne and Biarritz, where you can either head straight up into the Pyrenees or travel as far as San Sebastian in the Basque Country.

There you will finally find the turn-off to Pamplona and the Navarre region. The Basque coast is around 40 km from the border of the neighbouring country. It is around 100 kilometres to Pamplona. From Germany, for example from Frankfurt am Main, you should plan on travelling around 1,400 km. In Berlin, holidaymakers are 1,900 km away from Navarre.

Destinations in Navarre, Spain

Navarre is particularly fascinating with its idyllic small medieval towns and, above all, the regional centre of Pamplona, which is famous for its bull races. Nature lovers can explore desert areas in the south and roam through the Pyrenees in the north.

Pamplona

Pamplona is the capital of Navarre and is one of the most visited municipalities with its Sanfermines festival and the bulls running through the town. Away from the festival season, the historic buildings, especially the baroque churches and the Gothic cathedral of Santa Maria la Real, are well worth a visit. The massive city walls that surround the centre are impressive.

Pirineos de Navarra

The Navarre Pyrenees are ideal for hiking excursions. High in the mountains, you can set off on numerous paths to spectacular viewpoints. The most famous peaks in the region include the Mesa de los Tres Reyes and Pico de Ory, which are over 2,000 metres high. The north of Navarre is strongly characterised by Basque culture. The language is widely spoken in many villages.

Ribera de Navarra

The most important agricultural areas are located in the south of Navarre. You can visit one of the tranquil villages around Tudela and buy fresh produce at the markets. Medieval towns, bizarre rock formations and desert-like landscapes create the best conditions for road trips.

Top 5 sights

• Cathedral of Santa Maria la Real: With its mixture of neoclassical and Gothic elements, the cathedral is one of Pamplona's best-known landmarks.
• Plaza del Castillo: Pamplona's main square is the meeting place for locals and visitors alike, and was also once home to the writer Ernest Hemingway.
• Monastery of San Salvador de Leyre: The oldest monastery in northern Spain is located at the foot of the Pyrenees and is known for its intricate portals.
• Estella: In the municipality, visitors can tour the Palace of the Kings of Navarre.
• Nacedero del Urederra: The national park is a popular tourist destination due to its turquoise-coloured lakes and waterfalls.

Top 2 insider tips

• Tudela: The second largest city in Navarre is located in the fertile Ebro Valley and is considered the centre of agriculture. The Cathedral of Santa Maria from the 12th century with its imposing Romanesque façades and Gothic portals is particularly worth seeing. The reddish shimmering, octagonal Monreal Tower is also famous.
• Way of St James: The Way of St James runs right through Navarre and can also be followed by motorhome. Along the way, you can visit a number of pilgrimage churches and discover old inns for travellers. Several museums and exhibitions tell the story of St James and his followers.

Excursions and activities

Between the Pyrenees and desert landscapes, there is plenty for holidaymakers to do - from extensive hikes in the mountains to cycle tours in the south of the region. Idyllic little towns and the sights of Pamplona can be visited on a road trip.

Hiking in dreamlike nature

The Pyrenees are particularly tempting for hiking excursions. Here you can admire marvellous mountain pastures, crystal-clear streams and waterfalls as well as mighty mountain peaks. The Way of St James also runs through Navarre, one of the most famous pilgrimage and hiking routes in the world.

White water for adventurers

The wild watercourses in the Pyrenees offer the ideal conditions for an active holiday with camping in Navarre. Many local providers take those interested on a white water trip in a rubber boat or on independent kayak trips.

Sightseeing romance

In Navarre, many historical buildings from the time of the kingdom await travellers. As part of an excursion, you can visit the secluded towns between the desert and the Pyrenees and be inspired by the Romanesque buildings. The region's most famous buildings are located in the cultural centre of Pamplona.

events

March - April

• Easter: For Easter, processions are organised, especially in the Spanish villages, which re-enact the Passion of Christ. On Sunday, the resurrection is celebrated with a big feast.
• Bolantes dances: In Luizaide-Valcarlos, the traditional Bolantes dances are also performed at Easter, which once greeted pilgrims on the Way of St James when they arrived in the village. In keeping with the traditional costume, the dancers wear a white shirt, a red cap and embroidered cotton trousers.

July

• Sanfermines: Pamplona is upside down for a whole week in July. From 6 to 14 July, the capital hosts spectacular concerts, folkloric shows and, of course, the Encierro, the world-famous running of the bulls. You can watch the animals run through the city centre from a safe distance from the roadside.
• Fiestas de la Verdura: The Fiestas de la Verdura take place in Tudela from 24 to 30 July. Throughout the week, you can sample regional food, admire folklore dances and listen to traditional music. The entire town is dressed in red during these days.

Gastronomy

Navarre is one of the most famous wine-growing regions in Spain. The region's wines grow at the foot of the Pyrenees. There are also several wine chateaus south of Pamplona, including Baja Montana and Ribera Alta. This is where the red Garnacha grapes grow, for example. You can sample the fine wines in one of the traditional wine taverns, the bodega, accompanied by tapas or pintxos, as they are called in Basque. The classics include fiery chorizo sausage, fried cod, octopus and grilled lamb ribs. Many of the products come from organic farms in the Pyrenees and their fertile slopes. Goat and beef, asparagus, tomatoes and even fish from the clear rivers come from here.

Best time to visit

The summer months are considered the peak season for a holiday at one of the campsites in Navarre. Temperatures rise to a maximum of up to 19 degrees Celsius as early as May. In July and August, temperatures reach around 27 degrees Celsius. During the day, the mercury can exceed 30 degrees C. Those who prefer a milder climate can arrive in June or September with temperatures of around 24 degrees Celsius. October is also pleasantly warm for a holiday at 18 degrees Celsius. In winter, temperatures of up to eight degrees Celsius can be expected. It is significantly cooler and rainier at higher altitudes, which is why you should bring appropriate clothing.