Oma Forest
Discover a magical forest where trees are transformed into vibrant canvases by artist Agustin Ibarrola.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Oma Forest
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a magical forest where trees are transformed into vibrant canvases by artist Agustin Ibarrola.
"A great plan for a half-day visit, kids were super excited to discover all the drawings on the trees!"
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Reservations are required, even though it's free! Book ahead to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking for at least 1.5-2 hours round trip, so good footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Painted Trees
Oma Forest
Discover trees adorned with vibrant, colorful shapes and figures, creating a unique open-air art installation.
The Hike Through the Forest
Path to Oma Forest
Enjoy a peaceful 45-minute walk through a fragrant eucalyptus forest, leading to the artistic heart of Oma.
Nuevo Bosque de Oma
Oma Forest
A section of the forest specifically designed for discovery, perfect for families with children to explore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Plan for a Hike and Pack Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Reservations are required, even though it's free! Book ahead to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking for at least 1.5-2 hours round trip, so good footwear is a must.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Limited facilities on-site; pack your own refreshments.
📸 Capture the Art
The painted trees offer unique photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Reservations are required, even though it's free! Book ahead to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking for at least 1.5-2 hours round trip, so good footwear is a must.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Limited facilities on-site; pack your own refreshments.
📸 Capture the Art
The painted trees offer unique photo opportunities.
🌳 Embrace the Nature
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the scent of eucalyptus.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oma Forest is a unique art installation within a beautiful natural setting, offering a peaceful hike and a chance to discover colorful painted trees. While some find the art questionable, many praise it as a great family activity and a serene nature experience. Booking in advance is essential, and visitors should be prepared for a walk and limited amenities.
"Super cool place to visit with kids! My kids are 6 and 8 years old, and they managed to walk around 7 km (according to the information center) without any issues. The path to the Nuevo Bosque de Oma is not difficult for kids, and it took us about 3 hours.
The kids were super excited to discover all the drawings on the trees, number by number. It’s a great plan for a half-day visit. Highly recommended!
Small tip: You need to book your entrance in advance — it’s free of charge!"
HYE MI SONG
"I didn't have any expectations as I thought (and still think) painting trees was a lame idea. Some of the paintings were really nice, but some of them are poorly designed as well, so in overall it's questionable if it's worth it. Neither a disappointment nor a recommendation.
You are supposed to reserve a slot before going there but they don't ask for anything.
You should bring water and food with you. Walking access from the parking lot to the area could be better planned."
Oguzhan Yesiltuna
"Great experience. Take your time for the hike. You need 45min to get to the forest and also 45min back again. In this beautiful forest with a great smell of eucalyptus we could have spend hours. It's so peaceful there. For the hole tour plan with a minimum of three hours.
Make sure to book your free tickets in advance. You need to show them at the info hut near the caves. There you will also get information on how to best hike to the forest. Take some water supply with you. There is nothing to buy along the way but a vending machine at the parking lot."
Manuel Beck
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oma Forest is located in the Basque Country. It's often accessed by car, with a parking lot available. From the parking lot, there's a hike to reach the painted trees. Some visitors rent cars in Bilbao for flexibility.
Public transport options can be limited and may require multiple transfers. Renting a car is generally the most convenient way to reach Oma Forest.
The walk from the parking lot to the painted trees typically takes about 45 minutes each way, totaling around 1.5 to 2 hours for the round trip.
While there aren't official guided tours within the forest itself, the information center near the caves can provide guidance on the best hiking routes.
Yes, Oma Forest is a popular day trip destination from Bilbao. Renting a car is recommended for this.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Oma Forest is free of charge. However, you are required to book your visit in advance online.
You need to reserve your slot online through the official booking platform. This helps manage visitor numbers.
Your reservation needs to be shown at the information hut located near the caves, before you proceed to the forest.
Oma Forest is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check the specific booking times when you reserve your slot online.
It is highly recommended to book your visit in advance. While some reviews suggest they don't always check, it's best to secure your spot to avoid disappointment.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged in Oma Forest. The painted trees offer unique and colorful subjects for your photos.
Morning light can be softer and less harsh, while afternoon light can create interesting shadows. Consider the weather for optimal shots.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions mentioned for personal photography. However, professional or commercial shoots might require special permits.
You can capture vibrant, abstract art on trees, the natural beauty of the eucalyptus forest, and the overall serene atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural parks and art installations to protect wildlife and the artwork. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The terrain involves walking trails through a forest. While generally manageable, some sections might be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Yes, Oma Forest is considered a great plan for families with children. The walk is manageable, and kids often enjoy discovering the painted trees.
A visit, including the hike to and from the painted trees, usually takes a minimum of three hours.
Amenities are very limited. There is a vending machine at the parking lot, but no shops or restrooms directly within the forest area.
The Nuevo Bosque de Oma is a section of the forest designed for discovery, often highlighted as being particularly engaging for younger visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to book your free tickets online in advance and pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities. Comfortable shoes are a must for the hike. The vibrant colors and unique art on the trees are sure to capture your children's imagination, making it a memorable half-day outing.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Take your time to soak in the atmosphere. The combination of the forest's tranquility and Ibarrola's colorful art creates a unique sensory experience. While the art is the main draw, the forest itself is a beautiful place to explore, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Agustin Ibarrola
The art is not static; it evolves with the trees and the seasons. Visitors are encouraged to walk the designated paths and discover the paintings from different perspectives. Some pieces are large and striking, while others are more subtle, requiring a keen eye. The experience is often described as a treasure hunt, with each turn revealing a new artistic surprise. The artist's intention was to create a dialogue between the viewer, the art, and the surrounding environment, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
While some visitors find the art to be a unique and engaging experience, others have mixed feelings, with opinions varying on the artistic merit of some of the paintings. Regardless, the sheer scale and originality of the project make Oma Forest a distinctive destination. It's a place where art transcends traditional galleries and becomes an integral part of the landscape, inviting contemplation and exploration.
Planning Your Oma Forest Visit
Be prepared for a significant amount of walking. The hike to the painted trees is approximately 45 minutes each way, so comfortable footwear is essential. The trails can be uneven, and the forest floor may be natural. It's also wise to bring your own water and snacks, as facilities within the forest are minimal, with only a vending machine available at the parking lot.
Consider the time of day for your visit. Mornings often offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more peaceful experience. The total visit, including the hike, can take around three hours, so plan accordingly. Some visitors have noted that trail conditions can change due to forestry work, so be prepared for potential detours, though signage is usually provided.
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