Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve

    • Hugging the coast
      Bilbao — Lekeitio

    Description

    The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is the most significant protected natural space in Euskadi-Basque Country, recognised by UNESCO for its extraordinary biodiversity. It stretches from the interior to the coast, combining mountains, rivers, cliffs, beaches and estuarine marshes into a remarkably varied landscape.

    The reserve hosts a range of transitional ecosystems that make it particularly valuable for both fauna and flora. The estuary marshes are among its most distinctive features, serving as resting and feeding grounds for numerous species of migratory birds.

    Urdaibai is also the only biosphere reserve in Euskadi-Basque Country to hold the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism, reflecting the area's commitment to responsible management of its natural heritage. This dual recognition — scientific and tourism-related — establishes Urdaibai as a key destination for those wishing to experience the natural dimension of Euskadi-Basque Country.