A daydreaming forest

Bilbao is a city full of adventures to discover due to its blessed location, close both to the sea and surrounded by mountains. Therefore, one can never get bored because of the nature that comes from the diversity of its natural surroundings.

Following the hiking mood, the is a spot that should never be missed by any traveler who has decided to cross the Basque country: the OMA Painted Forest.

To those interested not only in hiking but also into having the experience of walking in the middle of a painted and magical forest, Oma is the place to head on.

Agustín Ibarrola was the artist who turned the landscape of the forest into a living canvas; most of the threes were full color painted by his strokes. As well several scenes and themes were designed to come alive while the path advances. Just follow the numbers which are located on the floor, in front of each of the art pieces.

Since this type of performance within the nature, every wanderer gets invited to join the piece and be part of this unique “open air museum”, where there is no entry charge.

Not having a car should not be an obstacle for going there, there are also options to arrive there by bus, even if the traveler must walk from Kortezubi (the closest bus stop) around 3 km. However by being crossing those kilometers through very green fields, some ups and down within the mountains of that area of the basque surroundings, makes this adventure to worth it more. A new sight for the brave ones!

How to get here

According to the Bizkaia Tourist information, these are the 3 options:

• By car: From Gernika-Lumo, take the by-pass towards Lumo, along the BI 638 to the Barrutia roundabout. Continue along the BI2238 and after going past the Idokiliz neighbourhood, turn right along the BI 4244, to the end of the road, at the Lezika car park.
• Train: Euskotren (94 625 11 82) runs a service to Gernika, from where you can continue on foot (roughly: 7Km).
• Bus: Bizkaibus (902 222 265) runs a service to Kortezubi and you will then have to continue on foot (roughly: 3 Km).

Do not miss your camera, a comfortable pair of shoes and your dreams...

Photo gallery