Top 20 Natural Monuments around Kortezubi
Natural monuments around Kortezubi are situated within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated area in the Basque Country. This region offers a combination of geological formations, archaeological heritage, and unique land art installations. The landscape features a diverse natural environment, including estuaries, forests, and historical sites. These elements contribute to a varied outdoor experience for visitors.
Best natural monuments around Kortezubi
- The most popular natural monuments is Oma Forest, a forest that features a unique land art installation. This…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Artzubi Bridge
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The itinerary of the Camino de Santiago from the north or from the coast runs over it.
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Old Tree of Gernika (Gernikako Arbola)
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Oma Forest
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Views over the Urdaibai marsh
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Urdaibai
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Its heart is the Oka River that rises …
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The Oma Forest - Omako basoa in Basque - is also known as the painted forest, the enchanted forest or even the Ibarrola Forest. Its most common name - Oma Forest - refers to the district in which it is located, which belongs to the municipality of Kortezubi. This original work of art was created between 1982 and 1985, when the Basque painter and sculptor Agustín Ibarrola used the trunks of trees as a kind of canvas for a total of 47 images. On them he painted animals, geometric figures and people, or just parts of them, such as eyes and lips. In addition, many of the compositions do not consist of a single tree, but must be viewed in the context of several tree trunks. To do this, you must pay attention to the signs on the ground that tell the viewer where to stand in order to enjoy the whole image.
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When the Condor attacked, the residents of Guernica tried to protect the tree with their bodies because it is sacred to the Basques. Even today, elected politicians have to swear their loyalty to the Basque Country at an oak tree that stands a few meters away.
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In 1982, artist Agustín Ibarrola began painting the pine trees in the forest near his homestead with the intention of using the landscape as a canvas to give continuity to his artistic expression. It is at this moment when he decides to break the law of perspective and transgress the three-dimensionality of a white line until it becomes two-dimensional. From then on, he explored the possibilities offered by the arrangement of the forest trees, playing with the different planes of depth and creating artistic sets composed of human figures, curves or straight lines, and circles of intense colors. The ideas and concepts that it develops become more complex and advances in various directions as the painted forest expands. With the help of two students from the Faculty of Fine Arts of the UPV/EHU, he carried out a large part of the work that was open to the public until 2018, at which time the biological cycle of the forest came to an end. Given the importance that the work had acquired, the Provincial Council of Bizkaia began the process of making the Forest last, for which it had from the first moment the support of the artist who had made clear his desire for the forest to survive. In this way and in order to preserve El Bosque de Oma, the Ibarrola work has been moved to a new location, also recovering original artistic ensembles lost due to felling, attacks and natural tree falls. Today we can enjoy El Bosque de Oma more complete and more faithful to the artist's original idea.
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The Forest of Oma is one of the best-known works of the Basque artist Agustín Ibarrola and is an expression of the artistic movement known as Art and Nature, which emerged in the late sixties of the 20th century and whose purpose is to convey artistic work to the natural environment, using the landscape as a framework, support and raw material for the artist. The work, located in the town of Kortezubi (Bizkaia), is made up of several sets of geometric motifs and figures painted on the trunk of radiata pine trees. The use of natural living supports, the play of two-three-dimensionality and the experience of placing the visitor at the center of the work of art through his discovery, as well as the diversity of responses it proposes, make this work a reference of the Art and Nature movement and of Basque Art in particular.
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Urdaibai is an extraordinarily beautiful and varied natural space, which is why it was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1984. Its heart is the Oka River that rises on Mount Oiz and transforms into an estuary upon reaching Mundaka, creating spectacular marshes full of life. We recommend you see them at different times of the day to be able to appreciate both low and high tide. But in addition to unique marshes, Urdaibai offers you some of the most beautiful and appreciated beaches in Euskadi, Laida, which constantly varies in shape and size or the spectacular Laga beach, located under the imposing Peñón de Ogoño, which many define as “the closest thing to paradise.”
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Gernikako Arbola is an oak tree in the Basque city of Gernika.
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This bridge is an incredible find in the middle of the forest. It is covered with ivy and in summer it is so green that it is hardly visible. If you go down next to the river you can take some great photos with the water and the bridge. For many years this bridge has had to survive numerous floods. It's amazing that he's still here.
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The Artzubi Romanesque bridge was built in the 16th century. Wherever you see it, it has overcome floods and floods from the Golako River, which passes below and flows into the Oka River. In another time there were more bridges like this one, but it is the only one in the area that has endured. https://www.urdailife.com/artzubi-puente-cuento-arratzu-mendata/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and viewpoints can I explore in the Kortezubi area?
The Kortezubi area, nestled within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, offers diverse natural features. You can enjoy stunning perspectives of the dynamic Urdaibai marsh from Views over the Urdaibai marsh, where the landscape changes with the tides. The entire Urdaibai region itself is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its estuary, forests, and beaches like Laida and Laga, offering varied natural beauty.
Are there any historical or cultural sites among the natural monuments in Kortezubi?
Yes, the region beautifully blends natural beauty with historical significance. The Artzubi Bridge is a Romanesque bridge from the 16th century that blends seamlessly with its surroundings and is part of the Camino de Santiago. Additionally, the Santimamiñe Cave, while not listed as a highlight in the guide, is a UNESCO World Heritage site nearby, famous for its geological formations and prehistoric cave paintings, offering a deep dive into ancient history.
Are the natural monuments around Kortezubi suitable for families?
Absolutely. Several natural monuments in the area are family-friendly. The Oma Forest, with its unique painted trees, provides an interactive and engaging experience for all ages. Views over the Urdaibai marsh and the broader Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve also offer accessible natural beauty for families to enjoy.
When is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in Kortezubi?
The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, where Kortezubi's natural monuments are located, offers beauty year-round. However, spring and autumn generally provide pleasant weather for exploring, with milder temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer is also popular, especially for enjoying the coastal areas and beaches within the reserve. Winter can be cooler but offers a different, often quieter, perspective of the landscapes.
What kind of outdoor activities and trails are available near Kortezubi's natural monuments?
The area around Kortezubi offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous trails for different sports. For mountain biking, consider routes like the 'Centro BTT Urdaibai Ruta 8' or the 'Oma Forest – Laida Beach loop'. Running enthusiasts can explore paths such as the 'Punta de Murueta loop'. Cyclists have options like the 'Tour of Biscay: Urdaibai Coast Loop' or routes connecting to the Artzubi Bridge. You can find more details on these and other routes in the MTB Trails around Kortezubi, Running Trails around Kortezubi, and Cycling around Kortezubi guides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Kortezubi?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique blend of art and nature found in the Oma Forest, where painted trees create an immersive artistic experience. The historical charm of the Artzubi Bridge and the breathtaking vistas from Views over the Urdaibai marsh are also highly rated. The entire region's natural beauty and its status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve contribute to a memorable outdoor experience.
How can I get to the natural monuments around Kortezubi by public transport or car?
For the Santimamiñe Cave and Oma Forest, which are located near Kortezubi, public transport options might be limited, often requiring a combination of bus services and walking. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to Kortezubi or nearby towns like Gernika. For driving, parking facilities are typically available near major attractions, but it's recommended to check specific location details beforehand, especially during peak seasons. The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is well-signposted for drivers.
Are there any less crowded natural monuments or hidden gems in the Kortezubi area?
While the Oma Forest and Santimamiñe Cave are popular, exploring some of the smaller trails or viewpoints within the broader Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve can offer a more tranquil experience. The Artzubi Bridge, nestled in a natural setting, often provides a peaceful stop. Discovering less-traveled paths along the estuary or in the surrounding forests can reveal hidden natural beauty away from the main tourist spots.
What should I bring for a visit to the natural monuments in Kortezubi?
When visiting the natural monuments around Kortezubi, especially if you plan on hiking or exploring, it's recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is advisable during sunny days, and a light rain jacket can be useful. For the Oma Forest, a camera is a must to capture the unique art, and for the Santimamiñe Cave, be prepared for cooler temperatures inside the interpretive center.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the natural monuments in Kortezubi?
Kortezubi and the surrounding towns within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve offer various dining options. While direct cafes might not be right at the entrance of every natural monument, you'll find local restaurants and bars in Kortezubi village and nearby larger towns like Gernika or Mundaka. These establishments often serve traditional Basque cuisine, providing a chance to experience local flavors after your exploration.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments around Kortezubi?
Dog policies can vary between specific sites. The Oma Forest is generally dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to accompany visitors as they explore the painted trees. For the Santimamiñe Cave, due to its archaeological significance and the virtual tour setup, dogs are typically not permitted inside the interpretive center or the cave entrance area. When visiting the broader Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, it's always best to keep dogs on a leash and follow local regulations regarding protected natural areas.
What is the significance of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve for the natural monuments in Kortezubi?
The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated area, is crucial to the significance of Kortezubi's natural monuments. It provides the ecological context for sites like the Santimamiñe Cave and the Oma Forest. The reserve protects a diverse ecosystem, including estuaries, forests, and coastal areas, ensuring the preservation of the natural environment that surrounds and enhances these monuments. This designation highlights the area's global importance for both nature and cultural heritage.
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