Kliska - Nature and Mountain Photo Festival

Kliska: The Basque Mountains Through the Lens

Created by the CPIE Pays Basque (Permanent Centre for Environmental Initiatives), the Kliska festival is dedicated to nature and mountain photography in the Basque Country. Organized in Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, a village nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees in the Aldudes valley, this festival offers a photographic perspective on the landscapes, fauna, and flora of the Basque mountains.

A Program Combining Photography and Nature

The festival is structured around several highlights:

• Photographic Exhibitions: Professional and amateur photographers present their works dedicated to the mountains and nature of the Basque Country, with diverse perspectives ranging from panoramic landscapes to macro photography.
• Conferences and Round Tables: Discussions with exhibiting photographers and environmental specialists provide a deeper understanding of mountain biodiversity issues.
• Macro Photography Workshops: Introduction to close-up photography of flowers, insects, and natural details, led by professional photographers like Hervé Drouet (Luz Photos).
• Nature Walks: Hikes led by CPIE Pays Basque naturalists and exhibiting photographers, to discover biodiversity while discussing nature photography techniques.

Activities for All Audiences

Kliska pays special attention to children and families with fun activities: nature games (“Soil Critters,” “Birds of Prey in the Basque Country”), photo rallies, and escape games on the theme of nature. These activities allow younger audiences to discover mountain biodiversity in an interactive and enjoyable way.

A Free Festival Rooted in its Territory

Admission to the festival is completely free, in line with CPIE Pays Basque's mission to raise awareness about the environment among the widest possible audience. Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, with its preserved mountain landscapes and proximity to the Spanish border, offers an ideal setting for this festival celebrating the beauty and fragility of the Basque mountain ecosystems.