Located in the Cinco Villas Areain a picturesque corner of Navarre, next to the Bidasoa river, the small town of Throw holds one of the most fascinating secrets of traditional hunting: the dovecotes.
This place, where the catching of pigeons with nets is practiced, has been declared Property of cultural interest and every autumn it becomes a meeting point for those interested in the nature, history and gastronomy of the region.
In a setting of natural beauty, visitors can attend one of the oldest jobs of Navarre, with 600 years of tradition, and live a unique experience.
THE Dovecotes of Etxalar They are much more than a hunting site; These are real living museum a practice that dates back to the 15th century. The net capture method uses a series of tricks and structures (dovecotes) strategically located at guide the pigeons to these nets.
In the Palomeras of Etxalarthe process of catching pigeons is a coordinated choreography which involves several pigeon owners in different positions. It all starts when one of the pigeon keepers, either from one of the climbs (watchtowers) or near the nets, sees a flock of pigeons. At that time, inform the chief pigeon keeper who is on the main rise, the one who plays a horn to alert the rest of the team and the hunters of the imminent arrival of the pigeons. With a single signal from the bugle, the shooting stops and the pigeon fanciers prepare their positions around the nets.
Pigeons located on the rises throw pallets in the air, simulating the flight of birds of prey such as kites. This movement causes the pigeons to descend quickly for protection, flying low to the treetops. So, pigeon owners use scrap which they wave while shouting, guiding the pigeons towards the nets.
When pigeons approach the nets, pigeon owners calculate the exact moment of net release, taking into account the size of the flock and the wind direction. By flipping a lever, the nets fall quickly thanks to the lead weights on the edges, trapping the birds. If the pigeons manage to escape, the leader of the pigeons gives a dual signal with the bugle, which allows the hunters, who wait in strategic positions nearby, to shoot to capture the pigeons which manage to escape the nets. This old and complex process hunting shows a coordination and knowledge of nature that has been passed down from generation to generation in Echalar.
This method of capture has been passed down from generation to generation and guided tours of the dovecotes allow you to discover the history and techniques of this method. ancestral crafts. Every year, during autumnTHE pigeons They migrate south and cross the Navarrese Pyrenees. This converts to Throw in an ideal place to observe the passage of these birds and learn how this unique tradition in the world works.
Guided tours to discover the history of pigeon hunting with nets
For those interested in living this experience up close, the guided tours which are organized in the palomeras are the ideal opportunity. During the visit, the guides explain the history of this tradition, the hunting techniques and the impact of this activity on the local economy.
These excursions not only offer an approach to pigeon hunting, but also fauna and flora of the region, allowing visitors to discover the natural environment of Echalar.
Echalar: a town with its own charm
Besides the pigeons, the town of Echalar worth a visit in itself. This small town is distinguished by its stone houses well-preserved cobbled streets and its Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.
Next to the church there is a garden funerary steleswhich adds a touch of history and mysticism to the walk through the city. Echalar invites you for a leisurely walk, enjoying the tranquility and the rural charm that characterizes it.
For those who wish to discover the region, there is hiking trails which cross the Cinco Villas region, around the Bidasoa River, passing through forests and mountains of great beauty. This excursion is perfect for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in diversity nature of Navarre.
Taste the local gastronomy of Echalar
During the hunting season, many restaurants in Echalar and its surroundings include pigeon meat dishes on their menus. THE pigeon in sauce or the pigeon stew These are local specialties that stand out for their intense flavors and traditional preparation.
For lovers of good food, Echalar offers a gastronomic experience just one that completes the visit to the palomeras.
Pigeon with Navarrese sauce
Below you can consult the recipe for one of the typical stews of this region based on pigeon meat:
- Ingredients (for 4 people):
- 2 wood pigeons
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 100 grams of mushrooms (in fillets)
- 1 deciliter of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped shallots
- 1 clove of garlic (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 glass of Armagnac or cognac
- 1 glass of white wine
- Pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of aromatic herbs
- Salt to taste
- Preparation:
- Prepare the base: In a saucepan, heat the oil and brown the diced carrots, onion and garlic. Add the flour and let it toast lightly to give it a touch of flavor. Pour in a quarter of a liter of water or broth and season with salt. Add a few grains of crushed pepper and the bouquet of aromatic herbs. Bring to a boil.
- roast the pigeons: Lightly roast the pigeons and cut them into four parts, removing the main bones. Reserve them in a warm place and cover them.
- Add Flavor: Flambé a small glass of Armagnac or brandy and pour it over the pigeons. Add the previously sautéed mushrooms, then add the juice released by the bones and necks of the pigeons, as well as the livers. Cook this mixture for an additional 30 minutes.
- Make the reduction: In another saucepan, reduce the white wine with the chopped shallots and a touch of freshly ground pepper, until the liquid evaporates. Filter the sauce, and if it is too liquid, let it reduce a little more over the heat.
- Finish the dish: Pour the sauce over the pigeons and heat everything without letting it boil.
- Presentation:
- Serve the pigeons with slices of fried bread. This crunchy touch will make each bite a complete and authentic experience.
In addition to the pigeon meatNavarre is known for its varied gastronomic offer, and Throw is not the exception. Visitors can taste typical Navarra dishes prepared with ingredients from the region, such as fresh vegetables, mushrooms and game.
THE gastronomy of Echalar allows you to know the indigenous flavors of the region and enjoy a homemade food in a charming rural setting.
Here are some of the restaurants you can try in this town in Navarre:
- Bar Grill La Basque
- Auberge Échalar
- Tobacco Restaurant
- Restaurant Pena Plata
Tips for visiting the palomeras of Echalar
If you think about visit the dovecotes of EchalarRemember to wear comfortable shoes for the excursion, as well as warm clothing. Remember that much of the tour takes place outdoors, so it’s also a good idea to bring water to stay hydrated.
Below you can consult a list of practical information to book and enjoy this moment. visit to the Echalar dovecotes:
- Dates: Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays between October 1 and November 20.
- Calendar: Guided tours start at 12:00 p.m.
- Duration and route: The visit lasts approximately 1h30, covering approximately 1km in the mountains.
- Minimum group: No minimum group required; They can join from a single person.
- Reservations: It is recommended to book with 24 hours in advance to secure the premises. Reservations can be made by calling the following telephone number: 690 267 756.
- Prices: €5 for adults and €4 for children.
