Alkiza
Protected nature beneath Mount Hernio
At the base of Hernio mountain, on the entrance to the Hernio-Gazume Special Conservation area, Alkiza gives us all that is needed to enjoy both the nature around and the rich cultural and gastronomical heritage.
371 habitantes
Nativity, 8th September
Qué ver en Alkiza
Alkiza is a natural window over Tolosaldea that combines medieval history and biodiversity. From the viewpoint in the square, the views of the valley are spectacular, acting as a prelude to architectural treasures such as the Church of San Martín de Tours or the Lete Farmhouse, from the 13th century. Its paths will guide you among century-old farmhouses, ancient pollarded trees, and the Askantxo stream, a magical environment beneath Mount Hernio where nature remains untouched.
The lookout on the square
In a priviledged location, from this balcony, where there’s also a playgroud, there’s a lovely view of Arana neighbourhood and the Oria river valley.
San Martin de Tours church
Gothic style parish, which started getting its actual look on the 16th century. The tower, on the other hand, was built later, on the 17th century. It has a beautiful choir and an arcade where a small and particular wooden balcony stands out.
Alkizalete farmhouse
Listed as cultural heritage good, it’s a building that maintains its original Gothic style remains from the medieval era, in a semicircular arch and pillars and beams from the 16th century. The coat of arms the year 1212 engraved. It was renovated in the 18th century, adquiring the actual Barroque style. Nowadays is a rural guesthouse: Lete.
Santiago chapel
Next to the graveyard and currently demystifyed, it was first mentioned in 1528. The path between this chapel and the church has 12 remaining crosses from the stations of the cross. There was no mass on the inside for almost 50 years due to its poor conditions. The ban was lifted in 1832, when it was renovated.
Farmhouses
Alkiza consists of several farmhouses, some of them very antique. At the square we have the rectory and Mendietxea farmhouse, from the 16th century. At Arana neighbourhood we can find Altzorbe, Agerre, Igaranzabal and Intxaurrandiaga. A bit far away Garro and Aginaga, with a large coat of arms and two solar clocks, something quite unusual.
Pollard trees
On the base of Hernio there’s a big number of small pollard breeches, trees cut to produce sprout. This was made in order to increase the productivity of the forests, without the cattle damaging the trees’ growth.
Askantxo
The path entering the Hernio-Gazume area twists between Zopite and Belako crags, where a number of chasms are hidden, and Askantxo stream, formed by the underground water of Hernio. Forests and streams. In this area several endangered species live, such as the tawny vulture and bats. It’s an easy route, perfect for families.
Txakoli with more personality
There are two txakoli (a type of white wine) wineries in Tolosaldea: one in Alkiza, the small and familiar Inazio Urruzola, and HIKA in Amasa, a modern and innovative winery. Not only the wines, but also the food served in their restaurants is high quality.
Hernio-Gazume’s natural, mythological and cultural wealth
The peak of Hernio is one of the most iconic places in Gipuzkoa, reason why it welcomes thousands of visitors throughout the year. The massif, formed by other stunning peaks and a protected natural enviroment, is full of history, traditions and legends.
Alkiza
in pictures
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