Last Updated on September 22, 2026 by George Pavlopoulos
On this side of the Basque Country, the landscape feels rougher. The cliffs’ formation is dramatic, and the views of the Atlantic Ocean stretch on endlessly. Despite its undeniable beauty, the stunning San Juan de Gaztelugatxe attracts thousands of visitors after being used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. I won’t lie: I haven’t watched the series. But after seeing an image of Gaztelugatxe online, I knew I had to get there.
During my weeklong sojourn in the Basque Country, Gaztelugatxe was high on my priorities list. It was late September when I booked this tour to get there. If this is not your first time reading my travel blog, you know I usually visit each location independently. However, I chose an organized tour, and you’ll find out why below.
Gaztelugatxe was one of my journey’s highlights and definitely one of the best things to see in Bilbao. Therefore, dedicating an entire blog post to this beautiful spot was the least I could do. So, in this article, you will see several photos of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and helpful tips for your visit. I’ll also summarize every available option for getting to Gaztelugatxe and share quick facts to help you prepare for the hike.
Let’s begin.
*Some links are affiliate links. This means that if you buy something, I might earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe travel guide: all you need to know
It is a short drive from Bilbao to Gaztelugatxe. Soon after leaving the city behind, you will drive along the Basque Country coastline and through the municipality of Bermeo. The cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean will slowly occupy your window views, and this majestic route serves as a prelude to what you’ll see in Gaztelugatxe. It won’t take more than 40 minutes to reach the spot where the minibus (or your car) must park. From there, an intense hike begins.
The hike and what to expect
The first part of the hike is downwards. The path is clearly marked, and since many people will be there, it’s impossible to miss. Soon after you start, you will see the islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the small Aketx isle, and the entire coastline, which is a protected biotope. Less than ten minutes into the hike, you will reach a viewpoint overlooking the whole bay, offering tremendous views of Gaztelugatxe.
From there, a downhill path begins. The route is rocky and slippery, so wear your best sneakers. It takes about 20 minutes to reach sea level, where you feel fully exposed to the elements: strong wind, the ocean’s waves, and glorious views surround you. Take a minute to enjoy the view and pause briefly. Afterward, climb the 241 steps to the islet’s top, where the picturesque church stands.
Remember that even in the off-season, the sun can be intense. Except for the beginning of the hike near the parking lot, there’s no shade along the route. It will take about another 15-20 minutes to reach the top, and the views from the chapel’s yard are breathtaking. The church is dedicated to John the Baptist, and you can ring the bell three times and make a wish.
Quick San Juan de Gaztelugatxe facts
Gaztelugatxe entered popular culture after serving as a Game of Thrones filming location. Beyond boosting its popularity and making it a must-do trip from Bilbao, it also means the place is never empty. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is always packed, so expect crowds along the hiking path and at the top of the islet.
Before I share my advice after hiking to the top, I’ll share 5 quick facts about Gaztelugatxe. They will help you better understand the iconic spot and glimpse its history.
- Gaztelugatxe means “rocky castle.” This isn’t surprising since the terrain is rocky from the moment you start hiking until you reach the top.
- The bridge at sea level is man-made and made of iron and stone. From here, the 241 steps to the top begin.
- The church is dedicated to John the Baptist and stands approximately 80 meters above sea level. Visitors are encouraged to ring its bell three times, which, according to legend, brings good luck. The chapel contains offerings from sailors who survived the rough sea.
- Gaztelugatxe was located in Dragonstone in the Game of Thrones series. However, the show featured a digitally created castle on top, which, of course, you won’t see when you visit.
- You will also see another small island close to Gaztelugatxe. That’s Aketx, a bird sanctuary that you can’t reach on foot. Aketx is probably the first island you’ll see when you start hiking, and it appears as a glimmering rock in the middle of the ocean.
What you need to know about hiking to Gaztelugatxe
I hiked to the top of Gaztelugatxe, and I enjoyed the route. However, there are a few things you should know before hiking to the chapel at the top. The advice is based on my personal experience, and I want to share it with you so you can have a better experience.
It’s not an easy hike if you are a non-experienced hiker
The first thing I want to say is that the hike is challenging. For experienced hikers, it’s probably a moderate route. The hike to Gaztelugatxe includes a downhill path, a short flat stretch at sea level, and 241 steps to the top. On the way back, descending the 241 steps might be hard on your knees, but the way up to the parking lot can feel exhausting because of the steepness.
That said, if you are not fit or have never really hiked, I advise avoiding walking the path. Shortly after the start, the viewpoint offers tremendous views of Gaztelugatxe, with a short hike back. For elderly visitors or people with health issues, I can’t recommend the hike, especially if you are not experienced or not into hiking.
The sun is always intense at Gaztelugatxe
The landscape is magnificent, but there are no shadows to protect yourself from. After all, that’s a rocky path connecting to an islet on a man-made bridge and slippery stairs. If you decide to hike, bring sunglasses, a hat, or even an umbrella. Because this is physically demanding, protecting yourself is a must.
Moreover, if you travel solo to Gaztelugatxe, try to arrive at opening time. Hiking early in the morning is easier than at the day’s peak when the sun is intense.
This was one reason I chose an organized tour: beyond the ease of reaching Gaztelugatxe, I knew even an hour’s delay could make the hike harder.
Bring a snack, water, and your best hiking shoes
My last piece of advice is to bring water, a snack, and your most comfortable sneakers. The hike is demanding, so having something to chew on is a good idea. Water will keep you hydrated, and you shouldn’t forget it when packing your bag for Gaztelugatxe.
Lastly, your best friend along the route will be your most comfortable hiking shoes. As I mentioned several times, the terrain is rocky, and the stones are slippery. For women, don’t even consider high heels.
How to get to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: every option explained
In the final section of this travel guide to Gaztelugatxe, I will share every available option for reaching this beautiful location. In brief, you have three options: an organized tour, by car, or by bus.
Here’s what you need to know.
To Gaztelugatxe on a half-day tour
Due to its proximity to Bilbao, the best way to get to Gaztelugatxe is on an organized tour. A half-day guided tour is ideal for people visiting the Basque Country without a car. Experienced tour guides will share information along the way. Moreover, knowing a local is there to help if you need anything is comforting. All tours to Gaztelugatxe include the entry ticket, so you can skip the line and start hiking as soon as you arrive.
I joined an organized tour, and I was delighted by the services. In addition to the San Juan Gaztelugatxe visit, the tour also stopped in Mundaka and Gernika, which Picasso immortalized in a painting. The tour offers two options: a bus or a small-group tour. Since the bus tour was sold out, I booked the minivan option, which was very comfortable.
You can book the tour I joined here.
For every other available day-trip option, please check here.
To Gaztelugatxe by car
A car is a great way to get to Gaztelugatxe at your own pace. However, as I mentioned earlier, prioritize your visit and go first thing in the morning to avoid crowds and excess heat. You won’t need more than 35-40 minutes to get from Bilbao to Gaztelugatxe.
In addition, remember to book your entry ticket to Gaztelugatxe in advance. Otherwise, you won’t be able to visit it. You can pre-book your ticket here.
To Gaztelugatxe by bus
Lastly, you can also get to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe by bus. In my opinion, this is the least convenient option because the buses don’t run that often to and from Gaztelugatxe. Moreover, bus schedules differ in winter and summer. Let’s break these down.
By bus in the summer
From June to early September, a direct bus line connects Bilbao with Gaztelugatxe. Specifically, Bizkaibus line A3517 runs hourly, and you can reach Gaztelugatxe in about 50 minutes.
By bus in the winter
From the beginning of September till the end of May, there is no direct option to travel between Bilbao and Gaztelugatxe. Your only option is to take bus A3518 from Bilbao (Moyua) to Bakio, which takes about 50 minutes. In Bakio, you will need to board the A3524 to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
The A3518 runs every hour, while the A3524 runs every two hours. As you can see, it’s inconvenient, and the best option is one of the tours above.
Tip: If you decide to visit Gaztelugatxe by bus, please remember to book your entry ticket in advance (like with the car option above).
Visit Gaztelugatxe: Final Thoughts
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a divine place. Despite the crowds drawn by its popularity as a Game of Thrones filming location, Gaztelugatxe offers one of Spain’s most impressive sights. The Bay of Biscay’s biotope creates a memorable experience for every traveler. The chapel atop the rock, the Aketx island, the roaring waves of the Atlantic Ocean, and the hiking path will make your journey to the Basque Country unforgettable.
As I pointed out several times in the article, the hiking route is demanding, so think twice about whether you’re fit enough to take it. Expect at least one hour of intense hiking back and forth, and don’t force yourself to go fast. Follow your pace, have enough water and a snack, and take it easy if you have no hiking experience.
The first time I saw Gaztelugatxe, I was impressed by its beauty. With every step I took toward the top of the rock castle, I admired it more and more. If you are wondering if it is worth visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, yes, it absolutely does. It’s a place of unique beauty and serenity, with a history dating back to the 10th century.
Wear comfortable sneakers, charge your camera or smartphone, and take your time hiking to Gaztelugatxe. It’s hands-down one of the sweetest and most rewarding experiences in the Basque Country.
More about the Basque Country: Athletic Club VIP experience, Getxo guide
Pin it for later
Sharing is caring. Share this travel guide to Gaztelugatxe with your friends.