Orduña, what to see and do.

Orduña, what to see and do in the only city of Bizkaia.

Orduña, Urduña in Basque, is the only town with the title of city in the province of Bizkaia. A fact that makes clear the historical importance of the enclave that we show you today. A strategic space, that we want to help you to know through this article on what to see in Orduña. We hope you like it. In case you do not find what you are looking for about Orduña, we encourage you to use the comment system that you will find under these lines, we will try to answer you as soon as possible. Bordered by the provinces of Araba and Burgos, this city draws attention for its great historical heritage and nature, 2 aspects, which fused together offer us a great family getaway at any time of the year. Protected by the always imposing Sálvada mountain range, this small and familiar urban nucleus opens its doors to show us some of the most striking spaces of all Euskadi. Do you dare to know Urduña / Orduña with us? The historic center of this Basque city was declared a historic monumental site in 1997. It is not surprising, even less so, when we walk through its narrow cobbled streets discovering buildings of great historical and cultural interest such as the Renaissance Palace Ortés de Velasco. Undoubtedly authentic architectural jewels of our land. But Orduña does not only call the attention for its Historical Center, as we have already said, nature plays an essential role in Orduña, to such an extent, that it is one of its greatest allies when it comes to attract travelers to its urban center. Thanks to the impressive landscape that surrounds the town, Orduña has become one of the most visited areas for the practice of sports such as hiking or mountain biking. This is largely due to geographical features such as Tologorri or Txarlazo, 2 peaks that represent a great option for all those who want to enjoy the outdoors in one of the wildest enclaves of Bizkaia. If we must highlight any of the spaces that we find near Urduña / Orduña, that is the Salto del Nervión, the place where the river Nervión is born, which, following the estuary of Bilbao flows into the Bay of Abra. This waterfall of more than 200 meters, currently represents the largest waterfall in the entire peninsula. A very striking space that we recommend you to visit in the rainy season or thaw. If you decide to visit this enclave, we strongly recommend that you make the route between viewpoints, you will love it.

This enclave located on a plateau between Burgos and Araba, is surrounded by beech and pasture fields, an area of great natural value that has been included in the Natura 2000 Network and has several Special Protection Areas for Birds. But this geographical location not only provides a natural space to take the hiccups, since its founding in 1229 until almost the nineteenth century, Orduña has been a strategic location for trade and conflict, a very coveted space. But this city is not only famous for its nature and its historic center, and is the Otxomaio festivities are known throughout Euskadi. A festival that has traditionally attracted a large number of people to this city.

What to see in Urduña / Orduña.

If you want to know what to see in Orduña, we recommend you to read carefully each of the sections of this section. And the fact is that all the places we show you below fit perfectly when planning a trip to Orduña and surroundings. We hope you like them.

Historic Quarter: The historic and monumental quarter of Urduña / Orduña was declared a cultural asset in 1997. A deserved cataloging, since it is the largest medieval quarter of Bizkaia and one of the few that preserves the remains of the ancient walls that defended it. Within these walls, we find religious and civil structures of great historical value. A jewel of Bizkaia’s heritage. The palaces and other buildings found throughout the historic center of Orduña, make clear the historical relevance that this urban center had in Euskadi. As a curiosity, according to experts, the wall that surrounded Orduña was more than 1.8 km long, a stone structure, which can still be seen today in the surroundings of the church of Santa Maria. Although it can not be seen with the naked eye, we must remember that currently remains standing 65% of this wall, and is that many of the sections of this wall are hidden by other buildings.

Sanctuary of La Antigua: The Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Antigua houses the image of the patron saint of Orduña. In honor of her, the famous “Otxomaios”, the most popular festivities in the area, are held. A festivity that, together with the monument that we find at the top of the Txarlazo pay homage to the patron saint of the city. Although the current sanctuary dates from the 18th century, we must mention that this building is built on other sanctuaries from previous centuries. It is worth mentioning the coat of arms of Orduña that we find on its exterior and the altarpiece with the image of the patron saint that is kept inside. According to the experts, the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Antigua is located in the enclave where the original settlements of Orduña were. Curious, isn’t it?

Church of Santa Maria: This temple located in the lower part of the city of Orduña, is attached to the wall as if it were another section of this structure. Undoubtedly it is one of the most striking churches of all Bizkaia. And it is that we must remember that being part of the defensive set of the city, this parish has become one of the few churches – fortress that we find in the province of Bizkaia. This temple, built in the 15th century, attracts the attention of travelers by the great central tower that we find in its highest point and by the altarpiece of the chapel of San Pedro that keeps in its interior.

Palacio Díaz de Pimenta or Zaldibar: This palace whose main facade faces the Plaza de los Fueros, Foru Plaza in Basque, was built in the seventeenth century between Zaharra Street and the aforementioned square. A strategic location where we find a nice collection of historical buildings. It is worth mentioning the two towers it originally had, elements that, along with other features, are a clear example of the baroque style of this building.

Palacio Mimenza: This 16th century structure once again attracts our attention in the Plaza de los Fueros. A Renaissance building that overlooks the square with its six arches and the gallery of arches with which it has in its upper part. It is one of the first palaces that was classified in this category in all Bizkaia.

Foru Plaza: Foru Plaza, Plaza de los Fueros in Spanish, is one of the most emblematic spaces in Orduña and the largest merchant square of medieval origin in the Basque Country. Built in the 12th century in the heart of the town, this space houses some of the most important and historic buildings of the city such as La Aduana, the palaces of Díaz Pimenta, Zaldibar, Mimenza, the church of the Sagrada Familia or the town hall itself. The arcades surrounding the square are a typical feature of the squares that hosted weekly markets in the Basque Country. In this case, the Plaza de los Fueros of Orduña hosted 2 weekly fairs that attracted a large number of people to the area. This is how Orduña became one of the towns with the greatest commercial activity in all of Bizkaia, thanks to its strategic location and trade.

Aduana: The palace of La Aduana, today converted into a hotel, is one of the most striking and important buildings in Orduña. Its original purpose was the control of goods arriving in Orduña, a fact, for which it was located next to the portal through which all those people coming from Burgos arrived, the Portal de San Francisco. This is how customs duties were charged to those who wanted to cross this small Biscayan island located between Burgos and Araba.

Palace Tower Town Hall: The town hall of Orduña is located in a building of the sixteenth century and a tower of the thirteenth century, the only tower that remains of the old wall of the city. For what we can affirm that it is a question of an architectural set of type Tower Palace. A building that has been serving Orduña since the 15th century. Next to this building we find another of the original entrances to the city, the so-called Dark Portal.

Fortified enclosure and its walls: The walls that protected Orduña kept inside more than 1,500 square meters of surface. In order to enter the urban nucleus it was necessary to cross one of the 7 gates or portals that this defensive complex had. At present, only one of those entrances is preserved, the aforementioned Dark Portal. As a curiosity we must indicate that the church of Santa Maria is part of this strong masonry structure that protected the city for years.

Palacio Olaso: In the same place where centuries ago was the portal of “La Antigua” today we find a neoclassical building somewhat deteriorated. However, although it does not show the best of its facades, even today we can appreciate some of the winks to nature that make their eaves.

Ortés de Velasco Palace: This palace was once part of the barrier that defended the city. A building of military character, which is also known by the name of Palacio de Arbieto.

Sagrada Familia Church: This baroque style church built thanks to the patronage of Juan de Urdanegi, keeps inside one of the most important altarpieces of Euskadi. As a result of this patronage, today we can appreciate the family coat of arms of the Urdanegi family on the main façade of this Biscayan temple. In its beginnings this temple and the school that we find attached to this same structure were managed by the order of the Jesuits. Witness of it are the different Jesuit anagrams that we find in this temple.

Museum of Orduña: This space gathers the history and culture of Orduña through an interesting collection of objects contributed by the neighbors of the city. The museum named “Urduña Hiria”, Orduña city in Basque, is located in the Kultur Etxea of Orduña, the house of culture that we find next to the church of Santa Maria. The entrance fee is 2€ and it is really worth a visit. We remind you that this museum has been created by the will of the people, a popular initiative that thanks to volunteers continues to show visitors some of the most curious facts of this spectacular walled city.

Delika: The Delika canyon amazes us with a simple and beautiful route. A route that surprises us with a different perspective of the Salto del Nervión.

Neighborhoods: We must emphasize that Orduña is not only formed by the urban core of which we have spoken so far, there are many neighborhoods (also known as villages) that are scattered along the slopes of the Sierra Sálvada. Urban centers of rural character, which, located in an unprecedented natural setting, invite us to know its rich cultural and historical heritage.

Murals: Art in Orduña is present in every street and square, an example of this are the different murals that we find on the ceilings of the Plaza de los Fueros. A beautiful collection of paintings that transport us to another era while we know part of the Basque culture and history. Art in the heart of the historic center of Orduña. A real luxury.

Altarpieces: As we have already mentioned throughout this article, Orduña has 3 altarpieces declared of Cultural Interest. The altarpiece of the church of Santa María de La Asunción, the altarpiece of La Antigua and the altarpiece of the church of La Sagrada Familia. A real luxury for lovers of religious art.

Txarlazo: The summit of Txarlazo houses the monument to the Virgen de la Antigua at more than 900 meters above sea level. A real icon of the place. A place of pilgrimage that offers a beautiful route and better views.

Ballooning in Orduña: Ballooning in Euskadi is a nice way to get to know the most striking corners of our geography. In this case, Orduña. We must indicate that although there are balloon flights from Orduña, it is not always possible to ensure that you will fly in this airspace. And it is that we depend totally on the climatology. It is for this reason that those responsible for the balloon flights in Orduña will warn us 48 hours in advance about which airspace has the best weather conditions. The authorized take-off zones in Euskadi and surroundings are Orduña, Valdegovía Gaubea and Medina de Pomar. You can make your reservation in a comfortable, practical and safe way from here.

What to see near Urduña / Orduña.

Near Orduña we find some of the most surprising places. And, thanks to its strategic location, this Biscayan city allows us to enjoy a dozen spaces, which, captained by the largest waterfall in the peninsula, the Salto del Nervión, we recommend you to visit. We are sure that this place will captivate you to such an extent that you will be eager to return. Here is our small selection of what to see near Orduña, we hope you like it.

Salto del Nervión: The Salto del Nervión is the largest waterfall in the peninsula. A waterfall of water of great height that surprises us with a view to take away the hiccups. As if this were not enough, the different routes that we find in the area, invite us to explore this place while the provinces of Bizkaia and Araba are literally at our feet. A highly recommended visit. More information in our article: Salto del Nervión, how to get there, what routes to do, when to visit and where to park.

Gujuli Waterfall: Gujuli (Goiuri in Basque) is, together with the Nervion Waterfall, one of the great attractions of the area. In this occasion, the waterfall is not so showy nor so accessible, but the more than 100 meters of unevenness by which its waters fall make that this waterfall attracts to this place hundreds of visitors throughout the year. Although many people go into the trees looking for the best photo, it is best to enjoy the views from the viewpoint. Be careful. Like the Salto del Nervión, the best time to visit is during the thaw or the rainy season.

Monumental complex of Quejana: About 11 kilometers from Artziniega is the monumental complex of Quejana, the house of Pedro Lopez de Ayala. One of the most important characters of the Middle Ages of Araba and therefore of Euskadi. Built in the 14th century by Fernán Perez de Ayala, this complex made up of a palace, a convent, a church and a tower is of great interest in the region. So much so that it was declared a Cultural Asset in 2002.

ArtziniegaArtziniega: This town is one of those places that leave a mark. An urban nucleus, in which in addition to finding a historic center to remove the hiccups, we also have the opportunity to enjoy some of the most important museums of Euskadi. An example of this is the Santxotena Museum or the Ethnographic Museum of Artziniega, 2 spaces that we are sure you will like.

Balmaseda: Balmaseda is known for its historic center, its Holy Week and its medieval market. 3 attractions that have made this Biscayan town famous. But we must not forget places like the Museum of berets the Enkartada, one of the most important museums of our industrial heritage. We love it.

Nervión Greenway: The Nervión Greenway runs along the riverbed of the same name between the towns of Amurrio and Laudio, a very comfortable and beautiful route that is chosen by hundreds of Biscayans to enjoy a pleasant walk with the family. The route has been conditioned in several points to be able to face the different architectural obstacles that we find on our way. A great option for all those people who are looking for a route to cycle with the family.

Zuia Golf: This beautiful golf course is composed of 9 holes of different profiles that surprise even the most experienced player. Trees abound, being in this case, one of the most dangerous obstacles of the course. In any case, we are sure that this golf course and its restaurant will not go unnoticed. We encourage you to enjoy it.

Honey Museum of MurgiaThis small town located in the heart of the Gorbeia Natural Park, invites us to learn the secrets of honey by visiting one of its museums, the honey museum. A space in which the great work done by the beekeepers of the area is put in value. Small but very interesting.

Salinas de Añana: Las Salinas de Añana, currently represents the largest salt complex in the Basque Country. Located in the center of a valley of great natural value, we find hundreds of white terraces that brighten up the view. An epic setting, like something out of a movie. And it is that, today, the Añana Salt Mines have been recovered to put in value the history of this Basque enclave. Salt, the white gold, is once again the protagonist in Araba. If you like nature and hiking, we recommend you to enjoy the route of Las Salinas de Añana, you will love it.

Tower of the Varona family: The tower of the Varona family is one of the buildings that has surprised us the most in Alava. And you should know that the last descendant of the Varona family lives today inside this majestic building. During the visit, we will have the opportunity to enjoy unique pieces of Basque history and culture. Highly recommended.

Otzarreta beech forestThis beech forest located in the Natural Park of Gorbeia, is currently one of the most visited forests in our environment. This is due to its beauty and location. This small corner of Euskadi surprises us with a small stream that runs through the roots of ancient beech trees. A magical enclave.

Vitoria Gasteiz: The capital of Araba, is perhaps the quietest city with the best quality of life in the Basque Country. Surrounded by a large green ring, in the middle of nature, we find a city that traps and captivates. We recommend reading our article on what to see in Vitoria Gasteiz. If you do not have enough time to visit all the places we mentioned, our recommendation is simple, focus on the Old Town, a real wonder.

Bilbao: The capital of Bizkaia welcomes and surprises the visitor with modern spaces such as the Guggenheim Museum and traditional and historical corners such as the 7 streets, the historic center of the city. We recommend you to visit Bilbao and its surroundings, we are sure you will love it. If you want more information about what to see in Bilbao, we recommend reading our article 199 things to see in Bilbao.

Route through the Sopeña: The route that separates Ruzabal and Maroño gives us an impressive route to enjoy nature while we delight in the breathtaking beauty of the Sierra Sálvada. This route is designed to be done in motor vehicles due to its nature. The steep slopes that characterize this route are not suitable for everyone. The route begins next to the Sanctuary of the Antigua, from there, a road makes us climb height to reach the recreational area Fuente La Choza, from where several routes depart. The road continues winding between small villages until it reaches Izoria, where we can taste one of the best Idiazabal cheeses in the area.

Txakoli winery: In this area we find multiple wineries of Txakoli, the famous white wine of Euskadi. A type of establishment that invites us to taste its wines while we learn the secrets of this typical drink of Euskadi through one of its guided tours. An example of this is the Txakoli Astobiza winery in Okondo, a small wine temple that we have already told you about in previous articles.

Maroño Reservoir: Located in the municipality of Ayala, this reservoir is one of the great attractions of the area. Protected by the Sálvada mountain range, the surrounding landscape is truly idyllic. This sheet of water supplies most of the towns in this part of Araba. An emblematic enclave, where hundreds of fishing lovers gather every year to enjoy the Pike and Trout, the 2 most common species in these waters. As if all of the above were not enough, this reservoir is a refuge for migratory birds when the weather allows them to overcome the enormous wall represented by the Sálvada mountain range.

Where to sleep near Urduña / Orduña.

In case you want to plan a getaway to Urduña / Orduña to visit this incredible area of Euskadi, we recommend you to stay in Satia Berri, a small complex of beautiful wooden cabins located in Llanteno, in the middle of nature. And thanks to its strategic location, this rural lodging allows us to discover a great part of Bizkaia and Araba without losing a lot of time in displacements. To this aspect we must add the fact that the prices for each of these cabins are the most competitive we have seen in the area, far exceeding those of other accommodations that we find in the town of Orduña. If you want to book your log cabin you can do it at the best price and in a safe and intuitive way from our reservation center, here.

Where to eat in Orduña.

After visiting some of the spaces mentioned above, it is essential to get strength to continue discovering some of the most beautiful corners of Euskadi. To do this, we recommend that you go into the historic center of Orduña. And it is here, where we find a greater offer of establishments with menu of the day or a la carte. We opted for the restaurant Hikei, in our humble opinion this restaurant represents a great option to eat in Orduña. Especially its tasting menu. On egin!

Video of Orduña.

Once again, we wanted to accompany these words and photographs with a video where you can appreciate in a more real way the beauty of this destination. We hope you like it. If so, we encourage you to subscribe to our YouTube channel to discover with us hundreds of destinations, hotels, restaurants and spaces of Euskadi. We are sure that some of them will catch your attention.

As you have been able to see, Urduña / Orduña, represents one of the most important urban centers of this strategic enclave located between the lands of Alava, Burgos and Biscay. We hope that this article on what to see in Orduña will be of help to you when planning your trip to this small and idyllic corner of the Basque Country. In case you have any doubt or suggestion we recommend you to use the comments system that you will find under these lines to let us know, we will try to answer you as soon as possible. Ondo pasa!