Urkabustaiz

02Geography

Urkabustaiz is situated on a high plateau with modest elevations. The notable geographical features include the Sierra de Guivijo to the southwest and the Altube valley to the northeast, which separates it from the Gorbea massif. The municipality is also home to the impressive Gujuli waterfall and is crossed by the watershed dividing the Cantabrian and Mediterranean basins.

Significant rivers

Altube (Cantabrian side), Bayas (Mediterranean side)

Conservation area

Zona de Especial Conservación (ZEC) robledales-isla of Urcabustaiz

Surrounding municipalities

Zuya, Amurrio, Cuartango, Orduña

03Economy and Demographics

The economy of Urkabustaiz is primarily agricultural and livestock-based, with a growing industrial sector, particularly in chemicals and agro-food. The municipality has two industrial parks in Izarra, which host various businesses. As of recent studies, the service sector employs around 60% of the population, while agriculture and industry account for smaller portions.

• Population
• Agricultural holdings 177 in 1972
• Industrial parks Landaberde and Martasolo
• Service sector establishments Around 10 hospitality businesses and 4 small shops

Urkabustaiz is a municipality in Álava, Basque Country, known for its elevated terrain and vibrant local culture.

04Culture and Festivals

The main cultural event in Urkabustaiz is the Fiestas Patronales of Izarra, celebrated in October in honor of Nuestra Señora la Virgen del Rosario. These festivities are rooted in religious traditions and include a major Mass, where the community gathers to honor their patron saint.

• Fiestas Patronales dates First weekend of October
• Patron saint Nuestra Señora la Virgen del Rosario
• Culminating event Major Mass on Sunday