Irati

Irati is a toponym and proper noun used in Basque-speaking regions of northern Spain. The most widely known reference is the Irati Forest (Selva de Irati), one of the largest and best-preserved beech and fir forests in Europe. Located in the Pyrenees of Navarre, the forest lies across several municipalities in the Navarra region and comprises a dense network of beech and fir trees, interwoven with streams, moss, and shaded valleys. The landscape features rugged terrain, scenic viewpoints, and a well-developed system of trails that support activities such as hiking, cycling, and nature observation. The Irati Forest is valued for its biodiversity as well as its cultural landscape, reflecting the historical relationship between people and the mountains in this part of Navarra.

Irati also appears in other Basque-Navarre topographic names and may refer to smaller geographic features or localities within the region. In some contexts, Irati can be used as a personal name. The name’s use and meaning derive from Basque linguistic roots and are associated with locality and riverine features of the area.