Oñati

The municipality of Oñati covers 108.2 km2 and is located at 231 metres above sea level. According to the data for the year 2000, Oñati had a population of 10,748 inhabitants.

As a result of the co-operative movement and industrial development of recent years, the industrial sector plays a key role in the employment figures recorded for each economic sector. Although industrial development has had a strong influence on the primary sector, of the approximately 10.000 hectares encompassed within the boundaries of the municipality, almost half are still used for farming purposes. The agricultural sector is based mainly on sheep and cattle farming, although a significant amount of land is also used for forestry activities.

60% of the population works in the industrial sector and the unemployment rate is extremely low.

Although the town's commercial activities are focused mainly around the local market, Oñati also offers an excellent range of places for eating out. The majority of catering services are family businesses specialising in traditional cuisine, offering dishes made with only the highest-quality ingredients at a very competitive prices. As regards accommodation, Oñati has the widest range of establishments in the entire Alto Deba region.

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of Oñati is its beautiful natural setting, nestled between the Aloña mountain range, the Aizkorri crest and the Gesaltza-Arrikrutz complex of sinkholes, etc. In this unspoiled area, which boasts a wide range of wildlife, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to engage in activities such as walking, climbing, bridge bungee jumping, potholing and paragliding, among others.

The area also has a rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as excellent local cuisine and a deep-rooted religious tourism tradition. Local folklore, festivals and customs are very important from both a cultural and aesthetic point of view.