Bardenas Desert: an atypical landscape in Europe

The Bardenas Desert considered the most beautiful desert in Spain. It is a natural space magic. It's one of the most beautiful places in Europe, if not the whole world. We enjoyed some unforgettable hikes and excursions in this desert, which is only a short drive from the south of France. This arid landscape, which covers an area of more than 40,000 hectaresis located in the south-east of the Navarre.

How to visit the Bardenas Desert?

We recommend that you stop at the park information centre when you arrive in the desert. It is located at the entrance of the park. You can't miss it. You will find a map showing the different tracks that you can borrow in carin bikeThe map also shows the hiking trails. This map will be very useful during your visit to the Bardenas Desert. The map will help you to find the points of interest in the Bardenas RealesThe map does not show a lot of hiking trails, whether you decide to drive or hike. The map does not show many hiking trails. There is no reason not to use the footpaths for cycling.

• Getting to the Bardenas Desert by car: We recommend stopping in Tudela and to Zaragoza before heading to the Bardenas desert.
• Travelling to the Bardenas Desert by aircraft The nearest airport is in Zaragozabut there are not many direct flights from France. You will need to travel to Barcelona, Madrid and Bilbao.
• Take the train to the Bardenas Desert. First, take the train to Castejon de Ebro. Then take a bus/taxi.
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJPzoDhBnuw

Why should you visit the Bardenas Desert?

Unspoilt natural landscapes as far as the eye can see: The Bardenas Reales Natural Park extends over almost 43 hectares. It is composed of landscapes desertIt is a landscape of rocky outcrops and strangely shaped peaks, alternating with vast arid fields. However, it is cultivated every other year in order to preserve biodiversity. From 1980The park is designated as a "biosphere reserve" by theUNESCO.

This vast natural park is a place of transhumance which lends itself to all types of hiking: you can do it on foot, by mountain bike, by motorized vehicle, or even on horseback. However, you should be aware of the rules that apply to this area.

A place, a story: The future of the Bardenas was marked by the creation of Tudela by the Muslims in the year 800. Its inhabitants received certain privileges from the Kingdom of Navarre in exchange for their support for the Reconquest against Muslims. The shepherds of the Pyrenean valley had the right to graze, cultivate and exploit the forests.

When can you visit the Bardenas Desert?

The Bardenas Reales Visitor Centre is open from April to August, from 9h00 à 14h00 and 16h00 à 19h00 from September to March, from 9h00 à 14h00 and 15h00 à 17h00 (at Easter, the centre is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm).

You can visit the area around the airfield by car, but the best way to get there is by dirt road. There are a number of rules you must follow when visiting the area. For example, the speed limit is 40 km/h and you should only stop in designated and marked parking areas.

It is also prohibited to take routes that deviate from the established route.