Environmental history
In the municipalities of Arraia-Maeztu, Bernedo and Campezo, Alava, there is an area of great natural beauty which was declared a National Park in 1998. Covering an area of 9,081 hectares, the Izki National Park is one of the largest areas of indigenous forest in the Basque Country. The most extensive forest formation in Izki is the Pyrenean Oak (Quercus pyrenaica). Surrounding the Pyrenean Oak is the European Beech (Fagus sylvatica). In chalky areas of Arlucea and between Corres and Bujanda, are Portuguese Oak (Quercus faginea).
In addition to the all-pervading woods, the landscape of Izki is marked by its high rock faces. The limestone plateau that borders the north of the Park consists of the mountains of Kapildui, San Justi and San Cristobal. This is an area of grazing and thicket with magnificent views. Another place of great scenic beauty is La Muela, in the southeast of the Park. This is a small mountain chain, 1,056m above sea level, whose southern slope drops sharply into the valley of San Roman de Campezo.
In Izki there are over 151 species of vertebrates. An interesting bird fauna inhabits its rocky areas, most notably the Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) and the Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus). The woods are home to considerable forest fauna, whose most significant species is the Middle Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos medius), being the most important population on the peninsula.
The clear waters of its rivers invite species such as the Pyrenean Desman (Galemys pyrenaicus), the European mink (Mustela lutreola) and the European otter (Lutra lutra) to live in them.
Consequently, the area’s unique landscape, its major plant formations, the large number of animal species that are establishing themselves in the multiplicity of habitats, and the botanical variety, make this a natural paradise.