The Cultural Landscape of Zerain offers a deep insight into the history and traditions of this town in Goierri, where agriculture, mining, and craftsmanship have left their mark over time. This cultural ensemble can be explored through various activities and emblematic sites.
The Ethnographic Museum of Zerain is a fascinating space that illustrates the development of the community’s way of life and customs. The visit starts with a diaporama providing a visual introduction to the town’s history. Afterwards, visitors can view exhibits of utensils, furniture, tools, and documents telling the historical story of Zerain.
The pieces in the collection have been generously donated by locals, covering the town’s beginnings in agriculture and shepherding, through the mining era, up to the present. This museum is the perfect place to connect with Zerain's cultural identity.
Built in 1890, the Larraondo sawmill is a testament to the hydraulic engineering of its time. It used the waters of the Lasurtegi river to activate its mechanisms. The power of the water moved two saws, a lathe, a planer, grindstones, a sharpening stone, drills, mills, and a forge.
Although the sawmill ceased operations in 1960, visitors can still observe the old machinery in action during guided tours held every weekend and public holiday.
Guided tour schedule:
Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance. If the minimum of 6 people is not reached, the tour will be canceled.
The jail, also known as the dungeons, was built together with the Town Hall in 1711, and it is the only 18th-century jail preserved in Gipuzkoa. Originally, it served as a transit jail, as Zerain was a meeting point between two main roads.
In this jail, prisoners sentenced to work in the Zerain iron mines would spend the night. Visitors can see the shackles and chains that were used to restrain prisoners, offering a chilling glimpse into the town’s penal history.
When visiting the Cultural Landscape of Zerain, Hotel Salbatore in Beasain stands out as the ideal place to stay. After exploring the region’s cultural and natural treasures, you can relax in its comfortable rooms and enjoy the daily menu at the restaurant. Its proximity to Zerain and other points of interest in Beasain ensures an enriching experience combining history, culture, and rest.
Simple hotel, perfect for sleeping and resting — no need to ask for more. Extraordinary people, very kind and highly professional, great dining service. Ideal location if you want to explore the Basque Country, just an hour's drive from all major sites. I’ll be back.
A very peaceful hotel to disconnect. The staff is very attentive and helpful. Daniela is such a sweetheart, always attentive and ready to recommend places to visit — truly charming. The food was exquisite, a 10! Those croquettes… ummm! I’d definitely come back. Thanks to all the hotel staff. Greetings and big hugs from a girl from the Canary Islands.
The friendliest hotel staff I’ve ever met. Daniela is pure charm and sweetness, and Jon gives you incredible tips on places to visit and where to park. I’ll recommend this hotel to anyone visiting the Basque Country, and if I ever return, I’ll definitely stay again. The breakfasts and dinners were fabulous. In short, a 10 out of 10.
We went to this hotel for a tournament. The staff was the best — super friendly and lovely, they treated us wonderfully. The restaurant surprised us: good food with generous portions at an affordable price. Clean and comfortable rooms.
Wonderful stay at the hotel: very comfortable and clean beds. TV and A/C were perfect for comfort. Storage space was great, although the hangers were very old. Lighting was excellent. The bathroom was very clean, although there were no towel hooks for the shower.
