Alberdi Makila

Craftsmen since 1948

Experts in the manufacture of makilas, traditional Basque walking sticks.

Tradition passed down for three generations

The workshop since 1948

In 1948, the Alberdi workshop was founded in Irun by José Alberdi Arruti (Oikina-Zumaia 1916-Irun 2009) Until the Spanish Civil War, he worked at the Azkue furniture factory in Azpeitia,where he learned to carve Wood. After the war ended, he moved to Irun with his family In this border city he built a house with a workshop on the ground floor where he spent mosct of his time carving wooden furniture. Over time, he specialized in the creation of busts, heraldry, plates, etc. That contained traditional Basque symbols. His sons José Manuel Alberdi and Iñaki Alberdi worked with him and continued the tradition.

Video presentation of our workshop

From wood to cane: the creation of a traditional makila in Irun.

Photographer Eduardo Almajano has made a video that captures the essence of the Alberdi Makila Workshop, offering an intimate look at the daily work of these master craftsmen. The recording shows part of the elaboration process of the traditional Basque makila, following the techniques of authentic Basque craftsmanship passed down through several generations.

Visit our workshop

Our Makila models

We make two different models of makilas, traditional and honor, as tradition dictates. Each one is made to order and made to measure, thinking about the characteristics of the person who is going to wear it.

Traditional Chestnut Brass Makila

310.00€

Traditional Medlar Brass Makila

400.00€

Traditional Medlar Nickel Silver Makila

420.00€

Makila of honor Medlar Nickel Silver

550.00€

Traditional Medlar Sterling Silver Makila

700.00€

Makila of honor Medlar Sterling Silver

850.00€

Michael Portillo visits the Alberdi workshop

From “The Pyrenees with Michael Portillo”
( TV-Mini series 2022, CHANNEL 5, Episode 1)

Media appearances

Customer Reviews

Makilas Alberdi

4.8

Based on 58 reviews

review us on

Debbie Kowbel

19:52 11 Nov 25

I am from Kamloops, B.C. and saw these makilas on a travel show with Michael Portillo. My husband had a stroke 2 years ago and is unstable walking on stairs and rough terrain. I thought this would be a fantastic gift for him. My correspondence with the Alberdi's has been top rate. They are kind, considerate and so masterful at the art of making Makilas that they should be world reknown. When the makila arrived I cried.... it is so overwhelming beautiful and my husband is overjoyed with it. You will be doing yourself the greatest of favours to have the honour of carrying one of these most beautiful pieces of art. Thank you Alberdi family for entrusting us with this makila.
Most sincerely
Dr. Michael and Debbie Kowbel

Amanda Garbacz

14:18 27 Aug 25

I ordered the Mikala of Honour for my husbands special birthday. The team I dealt with were prompt professional and very helpful. The Makila arrived superbly packed and on time. It was a surprise to my husband and the look on his face when he opened it was amazing . The workmanship and craftsmanship is wonderful and unlike anything we have seen before. You truly are masters of your craft and we cannot thank you enough. This Mikala will now become a family heirloom to pass down the generations. Thankyou again 💓

Nenad Popovic

11:41 25 Aug 25

I am absolutely delighted with my makila from Alberdi. The craftsmanship is exceptional – every detail shows tradition, passion, and true artistry. Communication with Saioa and Beñat was always friendly, professional, and very helpful. They even managed to deliver my makila exactly in time for my birthday, which made it extra special. A unique piece of Basque heritage that I will cherish for life. Highly recommended!

Martin Ford

00:12 21 Aug 25

The Makila is a functional example of ancient craftsmanship carried into the modern times. Ours has been admired by all who see it and we look forward to walks in the Australian National Parks, making good use of our new acquisition. There is a unique feel to something made by such skilled artisans. This is a rare thing today.

LC Lappano

15:06 14 Aug 25

Recently I had a Makila made for me by the Alberdi family. I could not have been more satisfied with the level of communication and service once I made a request to purchase via their site. Originally, I was a bit hesitant as my Makila had to be shipped transatlantic from Irun Spain to my location in Canada. I was very pleased with the whole process from beginning to end. I received my Mikila ahead of schedule and it has been put to the test joining me on many an adventure. It feels great, looks beautiful and is extremely functional. I would highly recommend entrusting the family Alberdi to construct your Makila with the utmost of craftsmanship and care that they have obviously put into mine.

Rob Marsh

07:09 16 Jul 25

My Makila has arrived in Brisbane Australia. It arrived on time and in perfect condition. The Makila is of the highest quality I hoped it would be and the craftsmanship is superb.The skill and detail in the work is exceptional. The ordering process was easy and the regular progress updates were great. Thank you for my beautiful Makila!

john elvin

11:41 08 Jul 25

We are very pleased with our beautifully handcrafted Makila walking stick. The workmanship is excellent and it has been a joy dealing with such delightful people. The whole process of ordering and delivery was seamless. We strongly feel these traditions should be supported and recommend whole heartedly this company.
John and Julie Elvin

David Marchant

22:47 26 Jun 25

My beautifully crafted Makila arrived on time and in perfect condition. It is truly a work of art and incredibly practical. I am looking forward to many hours of use in exploring the great outdoors. Thankyou to all at Alberdi.