This is Oma, the enchanted forest of the Basque Country

An essential visit between the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve and the Cantabrian coast of Vizcaya, this work of art in the middle of nature fascinates all kinds of curious visitors.

If you want to discover one of the most magical places in Spain, read on. We speak of the Forest of Oma, or Boque Pintado, hidden in Cortézubi (Vizcaya). The enchantment of this landscape goes back to the beginning of the 80s, when the local artist Agustín Ibarrola wanted to reflect the social reality of the moment through 47 works. The legends around magic take over this corner making it a unique place to combine art and nature in the same experience. Guided tours are available, but it is best to get lost among its colored trees without being aware of the passage of time. Hidden in a privileged location, between the town of Guernica, the Cantabrian coast and the estuary of Urdaibai, declared a Biosphere Reserve by Unesco, this is not just any pine forest. In order to arrive it is necessary to cross an exuberant vegetation, great protagonist of the landscape, only interrupted by a pair of forgotten farmhouses and the gallop of wild horses, the only companions in this mysterious journey. But the real charm begins at the mouth of the forest, when the visitor blends with the works, described as "open-air museum" by the author himself. A total of 47 representations of animal, human and geometric figures extend over seven kilometers, which can be covered in an entertaining walk that awakens the senses. The pink girl, The rainbow of Naiel or Invitation to the kiss are some of the names that these paintings receive, thanks to which the trees come alive.

Many of the works are only visible from a certain perspective, joining several logs on the horizon, indicated by arrows on the ground. This fun exercise is ideal to enjoy as a family, taking advantage of the day to visit the Cave of Santimamiñe, the most important archaeological site of Vizcaya, which is in the same place where the journey to the forest begins. Other points of interest are the hill of San Miguel de Ereñozar or the animal refuge of Basondo. The descent ends on a stream that bathes this natural environment. This is the perfect corner to see how the last rays of sun cross the trunks and flood the stage with orange light, a farewell to the height of the work that invites you to return as many times as possible. Because you will always discover a different perspective. Things from enchanted forests ...