Puerto de Ibañeta is a classic road trip in northern Spain
Spain, europe
16.4 km
1,063 m
hard
Year-round
# Puerto de Ibañeta
If you're looking for a seriously scenic mountain crossing in Spain, the Puerto de Ibañeta is your answer. Sitting pretty at 1,063m (3,487ft) in Navarra, this pass has been welcoming travelers since Roman times—talk about staying power! You might hear it called by a bunch of different names (Paso de Roncesvalles, Col de Roncevaux, and a few others), but they all lead to the same epic mountain experience.
The pass itself stretches 16.4 km (10.19 miles) from Roncesvalles in the north down to Luzaide/Valcarlos in the south, carving its way between the Nive valley and the Irati valley. The main road up here is the N135, and here's the good news—it's completely paved and well-maintained. The not-so-good news? It's seriously steep in places, with gradients hitting up to 15%, so pack your driving patience.
The road stays open pretty much year-round, which is impressive for a Pyrenean pass. Once you reach the summit, you'll spot the modern Ermita de San Salvador de Ibañeta church marking your arrival at the top.
Want to push even higher? The NA-2033 branches off from here, a narrow paved mountain road that climbs another 6km to Ortzanzurieta at a breathtaking 1,570m (5,150ft). The whole area is pure Pyrenean magic—rugged, dramatic, and absolutely worth the drive.
Where is it?
Puerto de Ibañeta is a classic road trip in northern Spain is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 38.7797, -4.6212
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 16.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,063 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 38.7797, -4.6212
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