Bidasoa Greenway from Sunbilla: route, sections and practical tips
The Bidasoa Greenway is one of the easiest activities to recommend to visitors staying in Sunbilla. It follows part of the former Tren Txikito railway, runs alongside the Bidasoa River and combines cycling, walking, Atlantic scenery and villages of northern Navarra without requiring a demanding mountain route.
Sunbilla also has a particularly practical position on the route: from the village you can take a short outing towards Doneztebe/Santesteban, continue north towards Igantzi and Bera, or use the Greenway as part of a longer cycle-touring day.
Bidasoa Greenway: essential facts
The official route follows the former railway that once linked Elizondo with Irun. Navarra's tourism authority places the Greenway between Oieregi and Behobia, with roughly 42 kilometres overall and about 35 kilometres in Navarra. The dedicated cycling itinerary describes around 34 kilometres of prepared route with a low difficulty rating.
The surface changes from section to section, including concrete, asphalt and compacted earth. Much of the route follows the Bidasoa through Atlantic woodland and past former railway infrastructure.
Sunbilla to Doneztebe/Santesteban
For a short outing, the connection between Doneztebe/Santesteban and Sunbilla is very convenient. Official tourism information places the section at roughly 3.5 to 5 kilometres depending on the exact reference points. The route crosses woodland and several tunnels before reaching Sunbilla.
It is a suitable distance for an easy walk, a family outing or a first introduction to the Greenway before committing to a longer stage.
From Sunbilla towards Igantzi and Bera
Heading north, the section from Sunbilla towards the Igantzi area is around 11.5 kilometres. It is a longer and highly scenic stretch, set between mountains and passing small dams, fish ladders and remains of the former railway.
Notable features include an illuminated tunnel of around 208 metres and the former Igantzi station. Continuing towards Lesaka and Bera gradually brings the route closer to the Gipuzkoa border.
The Bidasoa accompanies much of the route. Photo: Ksarasola / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Can you do the Greenway with children?
Many parts of the Bidasoa Greenway have an easy profile and are suitable for relaxed family cycling. The corridor around Sunbilla gives you several ways to adapt the distance to the age and experience of the group.
However, conditions are not identical throughout the route. Rain can create potholes and some access sections are also used by residents, so it is sensible to check the latest route information before setting out.
Walking or cycling?
Both work well. On foot, choose a defined section and either return the same way or arrange transport. By bicycle you can cover much more ground and connect several villages in a single day.
With bikes, Sunbilla is well placed for routes towards Doneztebe, Bertiz, Igantzi or Bera. For a longer ride, official route suggestions even link Sunbilla with Irun and the EuroVelo 1 corridor.
How to prepare
Take water, weather-appropriate clothing and bike lights or a torch if you expect to pass through tunnels. Some are illuminated, but conditions can change. On wet days, pay extra attention to the surface and shaded sections.
The Greenway can be affected by rain, landslides and maintenance work. Official Navarra tourism notices should be checked before departure, particularly if you plan to continue all the way towards Irun.
Sunbilla is one of the convenient access points to the Bidasoa Greenway. Photo: Luistxo / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Combine the Greenway with Bertiz and Baztan
One advantage of staying in Sunbilla is that the Greenway fits naturally into a wider trip. You can cycle in the morning, visit Señorío de Bertiz later, or spend another day in Elizondo, Amaiur or Zugarramurdi.
The Bidasoa Greenway therefore does not have to be a standalone excursion: it can become the thread connecting several days across Baztan-Bidasoa and Malerreka.
Where to stay for the Bidasoa Greenway
El Eco de los Robles is in Sunbilla, a practical location for accessing the route and combining it with other excursions across northern Navarra. The property is rented as a whole house for six guests, with two additional places available, plus a garden, seasonal pool, barbecue area and private parking.
Families and groups can use the house as a base, choose different route lengths each day and return to the same complete accommodation instead of moving from place to place.
Frequently asked questions about the Bidasoa Greenway
Is the Bidasoa Greenway difficult?
It is generally considered an easy route, although surface conditions, weather and maintenance can vary by section.
Does the Bidasoa Greenway pass through Sunbilla?
Yes. Sunbilla lies on the main corridor and offers convenient access towards Doneztebe/Santesteban and towards Igantzi, Bera and Irun.
Can families with children use the route?
Many sections are family-friendly, but the distance should match the children's age and current route conditions should always be checked.
Image credits
Cover image: Makeip / Wikimedia Commons. Tunnel between Sunbilla and Doneztebe on the Bidasoa Greenway. CC0 1.0.
Interior images: Ksarasola / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; Luistxo / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Sources consulted
This guide was prepared and reviewed using official tourism resources from Navarra and public documentation about the route and locations mentioned.
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