Beasain to Zegama

The stage that unites Zerain with Salvatierra/Agurain is the heart of the Vasco-Interior Way and one of the most spectacular mountain stages of all the Northern Ways. The pilgrim faces the crossing of the imposing Sierra de Aizkorri. The ascent is hard and sustained, largely along a medieval road that winds its way through a beech forest. The highlight is passing through the Tunnel of San Adrián, a natural cave that traverses the mountain and has been an important passage since prehistoric times. Inside, there is a hermitage, creating a magical and unique atmosphere. Beyond the tunnel, the path continues over a high-altitude meadow landscape before starting a long and sometimes technical descent into Álava province. The landscape changes dramatically, and the mountain gives way to the vast plain known as the Alavesa Llanada. Arrival in Salvatierra/Agurain marks the end of an epic stage. This medieval village, with its porticoed streets, its fortified churches of San Juan and Santa María, and its tranquil atmosphere, is the perfect place to rest and celebrate having crossed Aizkorri.