We are Anabel and Rubén. Anabel comes from a farming family in Arguedas; Rubén is from Valtierra. The Bardenas, our vegetable garden and the villages of southern Navarre are part of our daily lives.
Our story
Rubén created lasbardenas.com in 2001 to share information about this landscape. The first cave renovations followed in 2002 and 2004. We still welcome travellers and help them discover the place we call home, with maps, routes and local advice.
Cave houses and Oasis de Bardenas
Our cave houses in Valtierra offer a distinctive place to stay near the Bardenas Reales.
Oasis de Bardenas is rented exclusively as a whole villa, for up to 15 guests. It has a private pool, barbecue, trampoline and spacious gardens. Parties and stag or hen celebrations are not allowed. Check availability and booking conditions at oasisdebardenas.com.
Rubén and the giant pumpkins
Rubén grows giant pumpkins and has achieved several Spanish records. In 2025, Ángela weighed 1,187.5 kg; in 2026, Princesa weighed 1,033 kg. We also grow giant watermelons and aubergines, and share photographs and videos. Every guest receives complimentary giant pumpkin seeds.
The greenhouse is a private growing space and is not open for visits. Follow Rubén, El Rey de las Calabazas, on TikTok and our @lasbardenas YouTube channel.
Welcome to Valtierra
Whether you travel as a couple, with children or in a group, we will help you prepare your stay.
