Otzarreta Beech Forest offers unique landscape in Basque Country

Located in the Gorbeia Natural Park within the municipality of Zeanuri, Bizkaia, the Otzarreta beech forest is noted for its unique botanical appearance. The forest features centennial pollarded beech trees, a result of historical charcoal production where trees were cut at approximately three meters to facilitate wood harvesting. This practice caused branches to grow vertically from a single point, creating moss-covered pillars that resemble a fantasy landscape.

The area is a significant destination for photography, particularly during autumn when the forest floor is covered in red and orange leaves. Beyond the forest, the region offers various natural attractions, including the Uguna Waterfall and the Saldropo wetland, a protected area for birds and amphibians. Hiking routes connect these sites, such as a circular path of approximately 7 kilometers that links Otzarreta, Uguna, and Saldropo.