Throughout the middle Ages Zubiri was an important stop on the Camino pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela and still is today. Albergues in Zubiri have always been important.
Pilgrims travelling along the route would stop in Zubiri to rest and stock up on supplies before continuing on their journey.
I visited last year on my way to Pamplona and thats exactly what i did. The tortilla was one of the best I had on my whole trip. I’ll tell you the cafe i stopped at in this article.
Zubiri
Zubiri is a small town located in the province of Navarra, in the northern region of Spain and has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages.
It is believed to have been founded in the 11th century by the King of Navarre, Sancho Garcés III.
The town’s medieval bridge, which crosses the river Arga, was an important landmark on the pilgrimage route and remains a popular attraction to this day.
The Camino Frances actually walks directly over the bridge as you enter Zubiri and is a great stopping point if you have made the walk from Roncesvalles.
Over the centuries, Zubiri grew, developed and today it is a thriving village with a strong sense of community and a rich cultural heritage.
The town’s traditional Basque architecture, narrow streets and charming public squares make it a popular destination for visitors looking to experience authentic Basque culture.
In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Zubiri is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The town is located in the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains and many visitors explore the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of the area on foot or by bike.
When I visited and stayed a few years ago I was too tired to walk any further so just took in the village over a few beers.
Overall, Zubiri is a lovely village with a rich, varied history and it offers visitors a unique glimpse into the traditional Basque way of life.
Accommodation in Zubiri
There is good accommodation and albergues in Zubiri for Pilgrims whatever your budget may be. It’s a quiet village but has everything you need for a night on the Camino Frances especially as Pamplona beckons the next day.
Pamplona is typically the first major stopping point on the Camino Frances when Pilgrims really let their hair down and have a few glasses of wine to celebrate walking the first few stages.
Albergues in Zubiri
Albergues are great places that are specifically designed for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago and typically at a low price.
Zubiri offers a range of albergues, each with unique features and amenities.
Here are some of the best albergues in Zubiri:
- Albergue Municipal de Zubiri – This is the municipal Albergue and has a total of 72 beds in several dormitory-style rooms, as well as a kitchen, laundry facilities, and shared bathrooms. €9 a bed and not bookable.
- Albergue Zaldiko – This albergue is located in the center of the village and offers comfortable bunk beds, hot showers, and a fully equipped kitchen. The albergue also has a lovely garden where pilgrims can relax and socialise.
- Albergue Suseia – 12 beds in 4 rooms with a single bed starting at €16 per person. There is a bar, restaurant and terrace.
Private Accommodation in Zubiri
In addition to albergues in Zubiri there are also private places to stay such as hostels and hotels. If you prefer a bit more comfort and privacy, here are some recommended private accommodations in Zubiri:
- Pension Zubirian Etxea -Great old style accommodation directly by the bridge as you walk off the Camino route into Zubiri.
- Hostal Gau-Txori – single from €35, sun terrace, bar and swimming pool. you can also eat in their restaurant as well.
Casa Rural in Zubiri
There is only one Casa Rural in Zubiri.
- Casa Rural Txantxorena: A traditional farmhouse bed and breakfast accommodation located in the village of Zubiri. The accommodation is situated along the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route with several guest rooms, communal lounge, dining room and kitchen.
Where to eat in Zubiri
Zubiri has several great restaurants that offer traditional Basque cuisine and other international dishes. Here are a few popular restaurants to try in Zubiri:
- Bar Valentin: This is the bar we stopped at and had the best tortilla we had on the whole trip. It was massive as well and went down a treat. As you cross the bridge into Zubiri take the first left and the bar is on the right hand side.
- Taberna Baserri: A popular bar and restaurant located in the village of Zubiri. The restaurant is situated on the Camino de Santiago, making it a popular stop for pilgrims who are walking the trail.
- Bar Zubiri: This casual bar and restaurant is located in the center of the village and serves a variety of dishes, including pintxos, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a good selection of local wines and beers.
What to do in Zubiri
Zubiri is a small village so has limited options for anything to do apart from walking around the village and visiting the church in the centre of the village.
Writing in a journal is often a good way to reflect and record memories so you don’t forget anything. I use a really simple Camino journal that has day by day pages for notes as well as.
Fiesta in Zubiri
The fiestas in Zubiri are an important part of the town’s cultural heritage, and they are a great way to experience the local culture and traditions. Here is the most popular fiesta in Zubiri:
The Fiestas de Zubiri (San Esteban) is a religious and cultural festival that honors the patron saint of the town, San Esteban (St. Stephen).
The fiesta is usually celebrated over several days in early August and is one of the most important events in Zubiri.
During the fiesta, the town is decorated with colourful banners and flowers, and there are processions, music and dancing throughout the day and night. The highlight of the fiesta is the traditional Basque dances, which are performed by locals in traditional dress.
Overall, the Fiestas de Zubiri (San Esteban) is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions, and to have fun with the locals.
If you are in Zubiri during the fiesta, it is definitely worth checking out but be aware albergues in Zubiri will book up quickly so book ahead.
Conclusion
Overall, Zubiri is a quiet village with a rich and varied history, and it offers visitors a unique glimpse into the traditional Basque way of life and is a great place to stop on the Camino.
It also offers a shorter walk into Pamplona the following day. With an early start Pilgrims will have time to explore the old town of Pamplona and everything it has to offer.
Buen Camino
