El Regato

The essence of Bzkaia in a 6-kilometre route

LAND

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January 2026

El Regato is the green lung of Barakaldo, a natural destination just minutes from the center of Bilbao. Enjoy a 6 km route through forests and reservoirs, ideal for hiking and mountain biking. The area, with restaurants and cider houses, offers a perfect escape with mining history and traditional festivals such as the Cherry Festival.

It is located just a few minutes away from the centre of Barakaldo, which is one of the most densely populated areas in Europe, and a stone’s throw from Bilbao. However, El Regato is one of the most attractive natural destinations on the left bank of Bizkaia.

Water, forests, old mines and quarries come together in a short, narrow valley which also boasts a range of excellent restaurants offering different styles, menus and prices, including a popular cider house.

In five minutes, anyone who wants to can find themselves in a very different world from that of motorways, logistics centres and factories. The surroundings open up into a landscape where water and nature take centre stage: rivers, small reservoirs and paths winding through hills and wooded areas make this area an ideal destination for walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts.

The walk runs largely alongside reservoirs and accessible trails, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. There are also circular mountain bike routes that cross tracks and trails of low technical difficulty, combining history, sport and nature.

The valley is surrounded by mountains such as Argalario and Ganekogorta, making El Regato a popular starting point for hiking and mountain biking trails.

The balance between natural space and human presence has helped to preserve native forests, meadows and waterways, reinforcing its role as a green corridor.

MINES, INDUSTRY AND NATURE

The old hydraulic infrastructure is a reminder of its strategic role during the economic development of the 20th century. At the same time, the neighbourhood has managed to preserve its community identity, maintaining local traditions, popular festivals and strong neighbourhood ties.

The landscape combines a rural and almost junglelike past altered by mining and industry, which have now given way to nature once again. History is reflected here in local festivals. The Cherry Festival is a traditional agricultural day with a market, and the Santa Bárbara Festival in November commemorates the neighbourhood’s mining past with a craft fair, music and basque rural sports. In August, other festivals focus on music and entertainment.

Sasiburu desde Penas Blancas © Kurtsik from Euskal Herria

El Regato is an example of sustainable tourism close to large urban centres: an accessible natural environment with clearly signposted routes and activities for all ages, promoting awareness of natural and cultural heritage without overcrowding.

For residents and visitors alike, it is an invitation to reconnect with nature and discover a unique corner of the region that can be reached by public bus.

Interpretation centre

In the heart of El Regato lies the Luis Choya Almaraz Historical and Environmental Interpretation Centre. The centre offers exhibitions and interpretive resources such as panels, audiovisuals and models to help explain important aspects of local history and the natural environment of the El Regato valley. It provides a comprehensive overview of the past and nature, inviting visitors to learn about both the environmental and historical aspects of Barakaldo in an accessible and participatory way.

The centre is free to visit.