Oma Basoa, also known as the Painted Forest, is an artistic and natural landmark located in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve in Bizkaia. It was created in 1984 by Basque artist AgustÃn Ibarrola as a fusion of art and nature, showcasing vibrant paintings on the trunks of pine trees. The site is a unique example of land art, where the forest itself becomes a canvas for geometric patterns, figures, and shapes that change perspective depending on the viewer’s position.
The project was conceived as a way to blend culture and the environment, inviting visitors to engage with art in an outdoor setting. The paintings reflect Ibarrola’s vision of harmonizing human creativity with the natural landscape. Over the years, Oma Basoa has become a significant cultural and tourist destination in the Basque Country, attracting visitors from around the world.
Access to Oma Basoa has changed due to environmental preservation efforts. The original forest was closed to the public in 2022 to protect the area from deterioration. However, a new version of the Painted Forest has been established nearby, continuing Ibarrola’s legacy while safeguarding the ecosystem.
The new site is accessible by foot via a marked trail starting near the Lezika restaurant in Kortezubi, which is approximately 40 kilometers from Bilbao.
Oma Basoa is open year-round, with no entry fee, though guided tours are available for a more in-depth understanding of its history and artistic significance. Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear and check local guidelines for the latest access information.
