If you want to enjoy a different kind of trip, full of stories, legends and mystery, we suggest you visit Zugarramurdi, also known as the Witches' Village, which is located in the region of Baztán, Navarra.
It is one of the best places to visit in the area, where you can discover a history related to witchcraft and the Inquisition. What's more, its proximity to Pamplona, which is just over 80 kilometres away, makes it a very accessible destination for a weekend away.
Zugarramurdi in Spanish means place of abundant elm trees, which give the landscape an intense green colour. The storied village is nestled in the fold of this landscape.
What to see in the area of Zugarramurdi? The village centre has great appeal in terms of heritage, but tourism is particularly focused on the natural attractions, including the famous caves.
The Cueva de los Aquelarres (Cave of the Black Mass) is a 100-metre long tunnel carved into the rock by the waters of the Olabidea stream or Arroyo del Infierno, comprising a succession of chambers. These caves are the epicentre of witchcraft in Spain and can be accessed by buying tickets. You can check the prices to enter the caves at the Tourist Office.
Do you want to know what happened to the witches of Zugarramurdi? The story goes that back in 1610, a resident of the village dreamt that some people met in these caves to practise witchcraft. Word of these black masses reached the Inquisition Court in Logroño, which condemned 53 people to death for these “akelarres.” Some of them died in prison, and others were condemned to death by fire.
Nowadays, a visit to these caves is one of the highlights of a trip to the area, especially if you're coming with children. The halo of mystery that surrounds the caves leaves everyone enthralled, and you can visit the Witches' Museum, which has a number of explanatory and interactive activities, to better understand this story.
But the caves aren't the only thing to see in the village, as there is also religious heritage. Holy places such as the church of La Asunción and the hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Rosario give you a more traditional take on the story of the area.
There are a thousand and one ways to discover the magic of this town, but what you can't miss is the rich gastronomic offering. When it's time to eat, there's nowhere better than the centre of the village, where you'll find the best restaurants.
We recommend spending at least a couple of days in Zugarramurdi so as to get to know every nook and cranny. To do this, the best thing to do is to book a holiday cottage in the area. There are good prices throughout the year - and special deals in the low season - so you can sleep cheaply. Whether you're travelling as a couple, with your family or as part of a group. In fact, there are cottages for up to 20 people. And if you prefer another type of accommodation, there are rural apartments like airbnb which also allow you to discover the Witches' Village in depth.
You're probably wondering how to get there? The best option is to drive, as you will be able to pass through other nearby towns such as Elizondo or visit the Caves of Urdax, just a few minutes away.
