Bardenas Reales

The Bardenas Reales can’t just be described, they must be experienced.

Walking through this Navarrese desert feels like stepping onto another planet: clay formations sculpted by wind and water, endless ravines, solitary hills, and ever-changing light that transforms the landscape with every step.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends, or with family, there are countless ways to discover the Bardenas at your own pace: by bike, on foot, by buggy, on horseback, or on a guided 4×4 tour. From Ruralsuite, you can book exclusive active tourism experiences with daily departures and small group sizes.

It’s not just about seeing the landscape, but feeling it. Breathing pure air, watching birds of prey fly free, hearing the crunch of the earth beneath your feet… The Bardenas offer total disconnection — an authentic, unfiltered escape.

How to Get to the Bardenas Reales

The Bardenas Reales are located in southern Navarra, just 10 minutes from Tudela and 5 from Cascante, making them a must-visit if you’re staying at Ruralsuite.

The main entrance is through the town of Arguedas, known as the “Gateway to the Bardenas.” From there, a paved road leads you to the visitor information centre and the start of the signposted routes.

You can easily reach the area by car via the AP-68 or A-68 if coming from Zaragoza, Bilbao, or Logroño. If coming from the north, the AP-15 connects directly to Valtierra, also very close to Arguedas. Once there, follow the signs to the Natural Park. The speed limit inside the Bardenas is 40 km/h, and driving is only allowed on designated roads.

What Are the Bardenas Reales?

The Bardenas Reales are a semi-desert landscape declared a Natural Park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. They cover more than 41,000 hectares with no towns inside, which enhances the sense of authenticity.

This landscape — the largest desert in Europe — was formed by wind and water erosion on clay terrain, creating surreal shapes like Castildetierra, the park’s most iconic landmark.

The area is divided into three main zones: the Bardena Blanca, the Bardena Negra, and El Plano. Don’t miss the viewpoints at El Yugo, Aguilares, and Sendaviva — perfect for taking in panoramic views.

Thanks to its unique geological and ecological character, the Bardenas are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You may spot golden eagles, Egyptian vultures, eagle owls, and other birds of prey, as well as reptiles and mammals adapted to the dry climate.

Experience the Bardenas from Ruralsuite

From our hotel in Cascante, we organise exclusive activities with Activa Ruralsuite, an active tourism company based on-site. You can book guided buggy tours, 4×4 excursions, or fully personalised experiences to discover the best of the Natural Park with zero hassle.

And after your adventure, you can relax in our fully equipped apartments — surrounded by nature and designed for comfort, accessibility, and sustainability.