Iraty Valley Summer Program Showcases Basque Pastoral Culture

Throughout the summer, the Chalets d'Iraty in the Iraty valley host a series of activities aimed at introducing visitors to Basque pastoral traditions, local products and outdoor recreation. Weekly sessions feature shepherdesses demonstrating milking, cheese‑making and cheese tasting, while an exhibition on shepherd life runs until mid‑November.

Markets are held on Tuesdays in August at various villages in the Salazar valley (Uskartze, Orontze, Itzalle). The programme also includes concerts, sports events and a two‑day Irati Kantuz festival on 4‑5 August, with performances by Carrere Familia, Ahotse, Pauline Junquet and Allegria. All events are open to families and aim to immerse participants in the valley’s cultural heritage.