Cueva de Kobatxo
Hidden in the limestone cliffs on the northern flank of the Sierra de Andía, Kobatxo is a small but dramatically situated cave that most visitors to the area never find — its mouth frames a postcard view over the Sakana valley and the town of Alsasua far below, and the short scramble to reach it feels like a genuine discovery.
Getting There
The cave is accessed via an unmarked path that branches off the main Beriain trail about 2 km from the Puerto de Olazagutía trailhead — local hikers in Alsasua can point you to the junction, or ask at the tourist office on Calle Mayor for the hand-drawn sketch map they keep behind the counter.
The final 100 metres involves a mild scramble over loose limestone; hiking boots with ankle support are essential and the route is not suitable for young children or anyone uncomfortable with exposure.
The whole detour adds about 45 minutes to the Beriain hike and is best combined with the summit as a full day out.
Inside and Around the Cave
The cave itself is shallow — perhaps 15 metres deep — but its ceiling is encrusted with small stalactites and the floor is carpeted with soft, dry earth that makes it a natural shelter; shepherds used it for exactly that purpose for centuries.
Sitting at the cave mouth with your legs dangling over the void and the valley spread below is one of those quietly spectacular moments that travel writing struggles to do justice — bring a thermos of coffee and take your time.
Griffon vultures nest in the cliffs nearby and it is common to look up from the cave mouth and find one gliding past at eye level, close enough to see the individual feathers on its wingtips.
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