Alto de las Bordas Viejas (Port Fondo Geodetic Vertex)
Alto de las Bordas Viejas (Port Fondo Geodetic Vertex)
Highlight • Summit
Hiking
5.0
(5)
Alto de las Bordas Viejas, also known as Vértice Geodésico Port Fondo, is a prominent summit located in the Sierra de Andia, a natural extension of the Sierra de Urbasa within Spain's Cordillera Cantábrica. Standing at an elevation of 1,265 meters (4,150 feet) in the Navarre region, it is recognized as one of the highest points in the Sierra de Andia and is home to a significant geodetic vertex. This natural monument offers expansive views and a unique blend of…
Tips
June 7, 2022
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Alto de las Bordas Viejas (Port Fondo Geodetic Vertex)
4.3
(4)
9
hikers
9.19km
02:57
400m
390m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
22.8km
06:17
370m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,100 m
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Wednesday 18 March
14°C
7°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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The primary access points are the town of Goñi and Puerto de Lizarraga. From Goñi, the ascent typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. The route from Puerto de Lizarraga is longer but generally features gentler slopes, with an estimated ascent time of approximately 2 hours.
Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking in the Sierra de Andia, including Alto de las Bordas Viejas. However, it's always advisable to check local regulations, especially concerning protected areas or during specific seasons like hunting periods, though this is uncommon for general hiking.
While the area is generally dog-friendly, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially due to the presence of livestock (shepherd's huts indicate past pastoral activity, and grazing animals may still be present). Always follow local leash laws and ensure your dog is comfortable with rocky, exposed terrain.
Beyond the panoramic views, hikers can discover the remnants of old shepherd's huts, known as the "bordas viejas," on the eastern slopes, offering a glimpse into the region's pastoral past. Additionally, the ancient Trekua dolmen is located in the Trekua pass to the southwest of the ridge, providing a point of prehistoric interest.
The terrain is characterized by treeless, grassy ridges and calcareous karst, which can include rocky and exposed sections. While the ascent from Puerto de Lizarraga is noted for its gentle slopes, making it a comfortable option for less experienced hikers, appropriate footwear and caution are always recommended due to the uneven ground.
Public transport options directly to the remote trailheads like Goñi or Puerto de Lizarraga are limited. It is generally recommended to access the area by private vehicle. Check local bus schedules for nearby towns, but expect a significant walk or taxi ride to reach the starting points.
The immediate vicinity of Alto de las Bordas Viejas is natural and undeveloped, so there are no direct facilities on the mountain itself. For restaurants, cafes, or accommodation, you would need to visit nearby towns such as Goñi or other villages in the Sierra de Andia region. It's best to plan for these services before or after your hike.
Winter hiking is possible but requires significant preparation and experience. The summit is exposed, and conditions can be harsh, with snow, ice, and strong winds. Specialized winter gear, including crampons and ice axes, may be necessary, and checking the weather forecast meticulously is crucial. It is generally recommended for experienced winter mountaineers only.
While many routes to the summit are out-and-back, it is possible to create loop trails by combining different paths or extending your hike to explore the wider Sierra de Andia. Hikers often use the network of tracks and trails to design their own circular routes, often incorporating the Trekua pass or other nearby features.
The geodetic vertex at Port Fondo is a crucial part of Spain's national triangulation network. These concrete pillars mark exact geographical positions and are used for creating precise topographical maps. For hikers, it serves as a distinctive landmark at the summit, often accompanied by mountaineer mailboxes, and signifies a point of scientific and cartographic importance.