AIAKO HARRIA: ENDARA FOREST : FAUNA AND FLORA / 'LA PENA DE LA VIDA' MILESTONE

ENDARA VALLEY AND PAGOGAINA MEADOWS
Along this path, which runs parallel to the road, we pass through a recreational area set in an old beech tree nursery and arrive at the Gorostardi car park. At the beginning of the track that starts on the left of the road, there is a signpost.
Following the direction of "San Anton" we continue to the next signpost located at the crossroads of Erroiarriko lepoa.
From here, we can optionally climb up to Erroiarri crest (be careful when passing by the electric tower. DO NOT TOUCH!) from where we can enjoy magnificent views of Endara valley, Aiako Harria and the surrounding mountains. Following the marked route, from the crossroads take the track on the left towards Erlaitz. The path passes through sections of mature oak woods and open areas where new trees have been planted to regenerate the forest.
We will cross several streams bordered with alders. After crossing a small pine grove we get to a concrete track. We take this track to the right, cross a small car park next to a farm and take the dirt track on the left.
We continue along this track until we reach the ridge that descends to Endarlaza. Here we turn left and go uphill along the path that goes up to Pagogaina meadows. We continue between pastures and bushes. Sheep, cows and mares graze freely in these open areas and it is easy to observe vultures and other birds of prey. We cross a small Japanese larch grove and pass by the ruins of Pagogaina Fort (19th century).
The path descends until it reaches the starting point again, where the milestone of "La Pena de Vida" (The death penalty) is located. It was placed in the 17th century as a warning: "From here, desertion is punished by death penalty".