Bordered by France, La Rioja and the Basque Country, it's unsurprising that Navarre is a well-known destination for foodies. Most of the region’s visitors, however, come either to run with the bulls in Pamplona or to walk the ancient pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. A less-travelled destination than much of Spain, Navarre still boasts a wide array of excellent accommodation options. Better yet, many of the best places to stay in Navarre are both charming and reasonably priced.

Northern Navarre reaches into the lush green foothills of the Pyrenees, and its small towns and rural villages have a Basque flavour to them. The region’s south is a bucolic land of farms and pastures; this is where much of Navarre’s fantastic fresh produce and superb wines are grown. The Camino de Santiago also comes this way, so you can expect to discover striking ancient churches and religious monuments as you hike, cycle or horse ride.

Most of Navarre’s population are based in and around Pamplona and Tudela, the region’s two largest cities. Both boast impressive heritage architecture and a lively foodie scene. Pamplona’s big draw is, of course, the famed Festival de San Fermín, which takes place each July. Travel at this time only if you’re eager to see the running of the bulls. The city is beautiful and feels more relaxed throughout the rest of the year. You’ll also find the best places too tay in Navarre much quieter outside of the summer months.

The Best Places to Stay in Navarre

For Heritage Glamour

• Gran Hotel La Perla was Hemingway's hotel of choice when in Pamplona. A stunning heritage building, this beautiful property now has 44 indulgent guest rooms with antique furniture and bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. The superb Plaza de Castillo setting and excellent restaurant complete the picture.
• Churrut Hotel is an 18th-century manor house in Bera's old town. Lovingly restored, the hotel has timeless interiors, with 18 individually decorated rooms and a great restaurant. Elegant and romantic.

For Rural Bliss

• Heredad Beragu is a chic, adults only property promising spectacular views of the Pyrenees from individually designed rooms and suites. A lovely combination of modern comforts and original period features, with hiking and birdwatching opportunities aplenty. Very restful and romantic.
• Hotel Rural Torre de Uriz, close to the Irati forest, has also preserved its medieval charm. Exposed stone and polished wood are paired with large, contemporary glass windows and simple minimalist furnishings. Highly recommended for couples or friends looking to trek, mountain bike and bird watch. Guests must be aged 16+.
• Hotel Rural Iribarnia is another romantic choice for those dreaming of secluded rural bliss. A wood and stone facade hides contemporary rooms with big black stone bathtubs and crackling wood burners. Intimate and relaxed, on the edge of Lantz.

For Families

• El Secreto del Ollo, in the hills surrounding Pamplona, has eight spacious rooms with lots of charm. The self-catering apartment is perfect for families, who can use the hotel as a springboard for hiking, cycling and horse riding in the countryside. Great fun.

For a Vineyard Escape

• Pago de Cirsus offers a stunning hotel with 12 traditional yet luxurious bedrooms surrounded by vineyards. The hotel is part of an acclaimed winery, perfect for guests dreaming of private tours and tastings. The onsite restaurant specialises in regional fare, paired with estate-grown wines. Superb.

For Design-Led Luxury

• Aire de Bardenas is a remote collection of ultra-modern cubist pods, each containing private rooms and suites. Minimalist rooms have white interiors, with light wood and big outdoor tubs for stargazing. Surrounded by rolling cornfields and a national park, this is a terrific eco-escape for those seeking to combine outdoorsy explorations with an appreciation of bold design. The restaurant is excellent.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Pamplona Airport, and travel to your destination by bus or taxi from there. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• Navarre is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect a warm year-round climate, with temperatures averaging at around 26°C - 30°C between April and September. You'll find fewer crowds outside the school holidays in April, May or September.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Pamplona.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the neighbouring Basque Country.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Navarre