Ullibarri-Gamboa Reservoir - arabaturismo

Landscapes teeming with life and memories

The Ullibarri-Gamboa reservoir, located in the heart of Álava and about 15 km from Vitoria-Gasteiz, is a landscape shaped by water, nature and memories.

Constructed on the Zadorra river in the middle of the 20th century in order to secure water supplies, it has since become one of Álava’s most emblematic nature and recreation sites.

Its perimeter of over 45 km perimeter encircles over 1,400 hectares of water, painting an extensive, serene and ever-changing landscape surrounded by hills, grasslands and forests. 

Old flooded villages and farmland lie beneath its waters, leaving their mark on the reservoir’s identity.

Walkers and cyclists can now venture onto the cycling and country paths connecting the small surrounding municipalities that offer countless viewpoints for contemplating the stillness of the water.

There are many ways to enjoy the area, whether you prefer walking, cycling, birdwatching in the Mendixur wetlands, kayaking, guided tours or exploring its history and culture. 

Each offers a chance to discover the reservoir at your own pace.

INLAND BEACHES

Where water and nature coincide

The banks of the reservoir are quiet recreational spaces where the water, open spaces and silence come together to offer a peaceful experience that is hard to find elsewhere.

The area has three inland Blue Flag beaches — Landa, North Garaio and South Garaio — which have been awarded Blue Flag status for their water quality, environmental management and facilities. Set within provincial parks, these beaches combine safe bathing areas with meadows, woodland and places to relax. Accessibility and services have also been adapted to enable people with reduced mobility to enjoy the area, making it an inclusive space open to all.

Walking routes, cycling paths and recreational areas criss-cross the area, encouraging visitors to walk or cycle to discover the reservoir from different angles.

The area’s size makes it possible to find a quiet spot even in the busier months, with space to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
 

Seasonal magic

The reservoir’s natural surroundings provide an ever-changing landscape throughout the seasons, with each season bringing unparalleled experiences.

Spring
In spring, the landscape becomes a mosaic of colour and life. Woodland, grassland and wetlands come alive again, while countless birds find a special spot to build nests or stop off on their migratory journeys. Longer days and milder temperatures make visiting the area even more appealing.

Summer
Over summer, the reservoir becomes the perfect place for enjoying the outdoors: swimming, sailing, kayaking, paddle surfing or walks before the sun sets. The long daylight hours and gentle breeze create the ideal atmosphere for wandering along the routes, trying out the cycling paths, stargazing or watching the sun go down over the water.

Autumn
The woodland turns every shade of ochre, gold and red, creating particularly camera-worthy scenery. It is also a good time to watch the migratory birds stopping to rest in the wetlands.

Winter
Winter brings calm to the reservoir and is when it is at its most meditative. Morning mists, gentle light and the quietness of the landscape create a special atmosphere. On colder days, snow on the mountains contrasts with the blue of the water, the perfect backdrop to a slow winter’s walk to watch the wintering birds.