The Bertiz Tourism Consortium was created in December 1992 with the aim of promoting the development of tourism in the towns and valleys of Urdazubi and Zugarramurdi, Baztan, Bertizarana, Malerreka and Bortziriak.

This Consortium is currently an umbrella for 18 town councils (Zugarramurdi, Urdazubi, Baztan, Bertizarana, Doneztebe, Elgorriaga, Ituren, Zubieta, Oitz, Urrotz, Donamaria, Beintza-Labaien, Sunbilla, Igantzi, Arantza, Etxalar, Lesaka and Bera) and eight professional associations (rural accommodation, hotels, camping sites, restaurants, Bars, craftspeople, trade and services). 

The main characteristics of the Consortium are as follows: It is an entity that unites public and private interests. It is integrated in the region and is directly involved with the problems faced thereby (there is direct contact both with the town councils and the owners of tourist establishments). This means that projects that go beyond the boundaries of town councils and that affect the entire region can be developed. 

Throughout the years, projects have been put in motion through the Consortium that have made a positive contribution to tourism in the region. A simple comparison between the availability of accommodation ten years’ ago at the outset of the Consortium and the current availability will show that the offer has tripled. 

The development of rural tourism has contributed to the diversification of the economy, generating wealth and employment of a high social value, as the majority of positions are aimed at middle-aged women who have fewer possibilities in other sectors.