The forest served as a source of wood for the Spanish Royal Navy's ship masts during the 18th century.
Irati contains several protected reserves, including the Mendilatz and Lizardoia integral reserves which forbid human entry to protect primeval forest dynamics.
The forest is home to a significant population of the Pyrenean chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica).
The Irati River, which gives the forest its name, is one of the best-preserved mountain river ecosystems in the region.
Much of the beech forest is considered a relic of the post-glacial period, maintaining species composition unique to the Atlantic-European transition zone.
Selva de Irati is the second largest and best-preserved beech and fir forest in Europe, covering approximately 17,000 hectares. Located in the eastern Pyrenees of Navarre, it spans the border between Spain and France. The forest ecosystem features diverse topography including the Irati River valley and surrounding mountain peaks. Native flora includes centuries-old beech trees and silver firs that create a dense, shaded canopy. It serves as a vital habitat for endangered species such as the white-backed woodpecker and the Pyrenean desman. Management focuses on sustainable forestry and biodiversity conservation. The landscape shifts drastically with the seasons, from lush greens in summer to deep oranges and reds during autumn.
The wooden bridge crossing the Irati River near the Casas de Irati reception area.
Register your vehicle online during high-traffic seasons to access the parking areas at Casas de Irati and Pikatua.
Bring waterproof hiking boots as the forest floor remains damp even in summer months.
Use the official forest trail markers, as GPS signals can be unreliable under the dense canopy.
Attempting to drive deep into forest tracks without a 4x4 vehicle or during winter when snow covers the roads.
Access to parking areas and certain trails is restricted or requires a fee-based permit during peak tourist periods in autumn.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive undergrowth, take all trash out with you, and refrain from picking mushrooms or plants.
