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Church · Bilbao, Basque Country
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
A hermitage atop a rocky islet connected to the mainland by a stone bridge and a staircase of 241 steps, on the Bermeo coast about 35 km from Bilbao.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Gaztelugatxe is a rocky islet on the Biscay coast, between Bermeo and Bakio, about 35 km from Bilbao, connected to the mainland by a two-arched stone bridge. At the top sits the hermitage of San Juan, of medieval origin, rebuilt several times after fires, looting and storms.
From the bridge to the hermitage runs a zigzag staircase of 241 steps, about 80 meters of elevation gain, with the sea crashing against the rocks on both sides. At the top, tradition calls for ringing the hermitage bell three times and making a wish. The surrounding coast, with cliffs and sea caves, is part of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
The site became world-famous after serving as a location for the series Game of Thrones, and visitor numbers grew a lot. For that reason, at certain times of year access to the bridge is controlled and requires an online reservation. Check the rules before you go.
The walk from the parking area on the upper road down to the bridge takes about 30 minutes downhill, and the return is uphill.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 to 3 hours, including the descent and the ascent.
Best time
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, outside high season. On rainy days, the steps become slippery; check the forecast.
How to get there
By car, about 35 km from Bilbao, roughly 45 minutes, to the parking area beside the BI-3101 road. By bus, Bizkaibus lines to Bermeo and Bakio stop near the access point; check timetables.
Tip
Check whether the period requires a reservation and secure a time online. Wear sneakers with good grip and bring water: there is no shade on the trail and the bar is far from the bridge. Arrange it with Bermeo, a fishing port 6 km away.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Do you need to reserve to visit Gaztelugatxe?
Part of the year, yes: access to the causeway is controlled and requires an online reservation. Check the rules and the calendar before you go.
How many steps does the Gaztelugatxe staircase have?
There are 241 steps from the causeway up to the hermitage, plus the trail from the parking lot.
Does Gaztelugatxe appear in Game of Thrones?
Yes. The islet and the stairway were used as the setting for Dragonstone in the series.