About this experience
During this fascinating excursion, I will introduce you to the 'white pearl of Alava' - the Salt Valley of Salinas de Añana, which is recognized as a nationally significant historical and artistic monument and recently awarded the Europa Nostra prize.
Salinas de Añana
The salt terraces, connected by a network of wooden channels through which salt water flows, produce salt in a traditional way dating back to the time of the Roman Empire. It is currently one of the most outstanding and well-preserved saltworks in Europe with a unique landscape of 5,000 salt terraces, half of which are active.
Program
During the tour, you will learn about what was here millions of years ago, see how salt is extracted, try your hand at this craft, and taste various types of salt. Finally, at the end of the tour, you can enjoy beneficial salt baths in an open-air salt spa.
After exploring the salt terraces, we can stroll through the village of Salinas de Añana, which has preserved its medieval architecture and Baroque mansions.
Optionally, after the tour, lunch can be arranged in a restaurant in a 16th-century historic building. Enjoy a menu of traditional Basque cuisine using salt from Salinas de Añana.
Organizational Details
- Entrance tickets to the salt terraces (7-9 euros) and lunch (15-20 euros) are paid separately.
- Upon prior request, this tour can be complemented with a visit to the nearby medieval castle Los Varona, shrouded in legends of brave knights. Inside the residential interior of the castle, there is a museum with an original exhibition dedicated to the history of this ancient noble family. Transfer time 20 minutes + 1-hour castle tour. Cost - 80 euros for a group of 1-4 people.
