GR-25. Stage 03. San Román de San Millán-Zalduondo

Stage 03 of the GR-25, which connects San Román de San Millán with Zalduondo, offers a challenging and enriching hiking experience in the heart of the Basque Country. With a length of 20.3 kilometers and a cumulative elevation gain of 548 meters, this route is ideal for those looking to test their endurance while enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Throughout the route, hikers will have the opportunity to explore the history of the area, starting with the municipality of Albéniz. This small village, which was crossed by the Roman road XXXIV, connects Bordeaux with Astorga. Although its history is not fully documented, the influence of this ancient route can be felt in the modern infrastructure, which includes the Madrid-Irún railway and the N-I road. In addition, the route approaches the Kukuma site, a cave from the Upper/Final Magdalenian period located near Araia, at the foot of the Alzania mountain range. This archaeological site is a testament to prehistoric life in the region and offers a window into the past, allowing walkers to reflect on the human history that has taken place in these lands. The difficulty of this stage requires good physical and mental preparation, but the reward is an impressive natural environment, where the local flora and fauna intertwine with the rich cultural heritage of the Basque Country. Each step on this trail is an invitation to discover not only the beauty of the landscape but also the traces of history that have shaped this fascinating region.