The territory of Álava offers numerous routes to enjoy nature, and one of them, though little known, is gaining popularity on social media. This is the source of the Zirauntza River, located in northeastern Álava, near the Peñas de Egino and the Sierra de Altzania, specifically in Araia, a council of Asparrena, in the Cuadrilla de Salvatierra.

This route culminates in the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park, on a path that leads to a spring of clean and crystalline water, ideal for disconnecting from routine and immersing oneself in a landscape where tranquility is the protagonist. A content creator considers it the “secret” place of Álava, where a river begins amidst forests.

The circuit, approximately four kilometers long, can be completed in about two to three hours. It is full of pools, streams, waterfalls, and pure nature. It is a simple yet spectacular getaway for outdoor relaxation. Along the way, other points of interest can be found, such as old mills that once harnessed the power of the Zirauntza River to grind grain, and remains of old ironworks that were key to the economic and industrial development of the area.

Water springs occur when groundwater emerges to the Earth's surface, a phenomenon caused by the filtration of snow or rainwater in low-altitude areas. To get there from Vitoria, the route is simple: take the A-1 road to Araia, a journey of approximately half an hour. Once there, access to the spring is very well signposted, with a small car park near the start of the route.