The Iron Mountain, located in Zerain, stands as a significant testimony to the Basque Country’s rich industrial history. Since the 11th century, this area has been a major iron extraction center, contributing fundamentally to the region's economic and social development. The exploitation of iron and coal has left a deep mark on the landscape, now designated as a Monumental Complex by the Basque Government.
At the Aizpea Mines, also known as the Iron Mountain, visitors can discover the fascinating process of iron extraction. You can explore the mine galleries, where structures revealing the area's mining history have been preserved. Thanks to the Aizpitta Interpretation Center, cutting-edge technology brings the story of the iron industry and its impact on the Basque Country to life.
Zerain retains a traditional rural atmosphere and offers various activities for visitors. Highlights include:
Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance. If the minimum of 6 people is not reached, the tour will be canceled. For more information or to book, contact (+34) 943 80 15 05 / 649 946 277 or email turismobulegoa@zerain.eus.
Besides the mines, you can also visit an 18th-century jail and a functioning hydraulic sawmill in Zerain, adding extra interest to your experience.
The landscape of Zerain, located within the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park, holds traces of its industrial past, including quarries, galleries, calcination kilns, powder magazines, and repair workshops. These elements are key to understanding Basque mining history and its influence on local culture.
The Iron Mountain is not only a place to remember the past but also a site to reflect on the impact of this industry on society and the natural environment over more than a millennium.
If you decide to explore the Iron Mountain, Hotel Salbatore in Beasain is the perfect place to stay. Offering comfortable rooms, free WIFI, and a welcoming atmosphere, the hotel provides a perfect refuge after a day of discoveries. Its restaurant offers a daily menu and a delicious continental breakfast to fuel your adventures in the region.
From Hotel Salbatore, you will have easy access to Zerain and other points of interest in Beasain, ensuring a memorable experience full of history and nature.
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.
