The Call of the Wild: Karrantzana Valley

The moment I set foot in the Karrantzana Valley, I knew I was in for an adventure unlike any other. The valley stretched out before me, a vast expanse of green, dotted with the occasional burst of wildflowers. The air was crisp, carrying with it the scent of pine and earth, a reminder of the untamed beauty that lay ahead. As I stood at the viewpoint, the valley unfolded like a living tapestry, each thread a story waiting to be told.

Our journey began with a trek to the Cave of Pozalagua. The path was rugged, a challenge that only heightened the anticipation of what lay ahead. As we descended into the cave, the world above faded away, replaced by the cool, damp embrace of the underground. The stalactites hung like chandeliers, their eccentric formations a testament to the slow, patient artistry of nature. It was a world unto itself, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

A Step Back in Time: Villa de Balmaseda

Leaving the cave behind, we journeyed to the Villa de Balmaseda, a place where history seemed to whisper from every corner. The medieval bridge stood as a sentinel over the river, its stones worn smooth by centuries of footsteps. As I crossed it, I could almost hear the echoes of the past, the stories of those who had walked this path before me.

The historic center was a maze of narrow streets, each turn revealing a new facet of the town’s rich history. The Church of San Severino loomed above, its spire reaching for the heavens. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of incense, a reminder of the countless prayers that had been offered within its walls. The exhibition of the Holy Week steps was a sight to behold, each one a work of art, a testament to the town’s enduring faith and tradition.

The Heart of the Earth: La Arboleda

Our final destination was the mining area of La Arboleda, a place where the earth’s bounty had been both a blessing and a curse. The iron mines, now transformed into a serene park, were a stark reminder of the region’s industrial past. As I wandered through the park, the lakes shimmered in the sunlight, a mirror reflecting the sky above.

The descent on the Funicular de La Reineta was a thrill in itself, the landscape rushing past in a blur of color and light. At the cliffs of Cobarón, the sea stretched out to the horizon, a vast, untamed expanse that called to the adventurer in me. The walk along the cliffs was exhilarating, the wind whipping through my hair, the roar of the waves a constant companion.

The Bizkaia Mining Route was more than just a tour; it was a journey through time and nature, a reminder of the beauty and history that lie just beyond the beaten path. For those who seek adventure and discovery, this is a journey not to be missed.